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Driving Excellence: The Need for Recognition in the Trucking Industry

The trucking industry is a vital component of the global supply chain, responsible for moving goods across vast distances and keeping businesses and consumers supplied. In an industry where drivers and logistics professionals face long hours, demanding conditions, and safety challenges, effective employee recognition can be a powerful tool.

Connection

Truck driving is a uniquely solitary occupation. Drivers are often logging long hours and spending significant time away from their family and friends. By recognizing their hard work and dedication, trucking companies can help their employees feel valued and supported. This sense of value and self-worth is critical in the trucking industry. A recent study by the University of Arkansas found that the major reason truck drivers quit is because they feel ineffective at their current company. Acknowledging drivers for milestones such as years of service, safety records, or mileage milestonessafety records, or mileage milestones can help combat this feeling of inefficacy and boost retention rates.

Safety

Safety is paramount in the trucking industry, not only for the well-being of drivers, but also for public safety. Employee recognition programs can emphasize the importance of safety by rewarding drivers who consistently demonstrate safe driving practices. This can include maintaining a clean driving record, adhering to specific regulations, and following correct safety protocols. Recognizing safety achievements not only motivates drivers to stay vigilant, but also helps develop a culture of safety across the company.

Mentorship

One of the unique challenges the trucking industry faces is an aging workforce. Since 2020, a wave of retirements has created a “brain drain” of tribal knowledge and valuable industry experience. Trucking companies can mitigate this problem by implementing mentorship programs. Voluntary mentors of new and incoming drivers should be highly praised and recognized to encourage the practice. Education is an extremely important pillar in an industry that is constantly adapting to new regulations. Recognizing both teachers and successful students is a great way to emphasize its significance.

Retention

Employee retention is a concern in many fields, but when combined with the issues of an aging workforce and a driver shortage, retention is critical in the trucking industry. According to American Trucking Associations (ATA), the industry will need to hire roughly 1.2 million new drivers to keep pace with retirements and growing freight demand over the next decade. In order to keep new hires on board, companies need to offer more than a sign-on bonus. They need to offer a great place to work. By recognizing employees early and often, new recruits are encouraged to stay.

Get Someone Who “Gets It”

E.A. Dion is a proud 5-Star member of the National Private Truck Council (NPTC) and has been crafting high quality custom awards for over 55 years. We’re extremely proud of our products and the real impact they have on hardworking individuals. If you’re looking to create a recognition program, or revamp an existing one, we’ve got you covered. Our dedicated Account Managers walk you through the entire process, from design to delivery. We can also provide custom order websites, drop shipping, and other admin services. Getting started is easy: browse our gallery of past products for some inspiration, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. give us a call, or fill out our New Project Form for a quote!