Employee and Retention in Trucking: Everything You Need to Know

Employee engagement plays a crucial role in the success of any organization, and this is especially true in the trucking industry, where skilled and dedicated employees are vital for operational efficiency. 

How Employee Engagement Impacts Driver Retention

Employee engagement refers to the emotional commitment and connection employees have towards their work and employer, while retention focuses on the ability of an organization to keep its employees. In the dynamic and demanding world of trucking, addressing these issues is of utmost importance to ensure a stable and efficient workforce.

The trucking industry faces unique challenges in maintaining high levels of employee engagement. Long hours on the road, isolation, and the demanding nature of the job can contribute to lower engagement levels among truckers. The consequences of low employee engagement in this sector are far-reaching, impacting not only individual job satisfaction but also operational efficiency, safety, and overall company performance.

Employee retention is a critical concern for trucking companies, given the shortage of skilled truckers and the high turnover rates in the industry. 

Why Do Truck Drivers Quit?

Retaining experienced drivers is essential for maintaining a skilled workforce and avoiding the significant financial and operational impacts associated with high turnover. Challenges such as burnout, job dissatisfaction, and the allure of better opportunities contribute to the struggles of retaining skilled trucker employees.

A recent survey found that many truck drivers quit their jobs because they feel like they're not doing well. This feeling of not being effective, called inefficacy, happens when drivers think they're not productive and lack the skills or tools to succeed.

The study suggests a simple solution to stop drivers from quitting. Managers should make sure drivers know exactly what's expected of them to succeed in their jobs. Trucking companies can also help by giving drivers support, making them feel capable and supported by the company. Managers can do this by showing appreciation, giving recognition, and boosting the drivers' self-worth. Positive relationships between drivers and company people also help. Companies can organize meetings, seminars, programs to reduce stress, wellness activities, and training to develop skills to make drivers feel supported and capable.

The link between employee engagement and retention is evident, with engaged employees more likely to stay with a company. 

Using HR KPIs to Measure the impact of employee engagement 

Using Human Resources Key Performance Indicators (HR KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of initiatives helps companies understand and enhance their strategies.

According to Deloitte's research, organizations that have employees with high levels of engagement surpass their counterparts by 147% in earnings per share. This shows how important it is for employees to feel connected and how investing in this can give companies a competitive edge.

Some key HR KPIs for measuring employee engagement include factors like employee satisfaction, communication effectiveness, and feedback mechanisms. 

Additionally, monitoring turnover rates, tenure, and exit interviews can provide insights into employee retention. Data-driven decision-making is crucial in evaluating the success of engagement and retention strategies, allowing companies to adapt and improve their approaches over time.

Implementing a comprehensive strategy involves steps such as conducting regular employee surveys, creating a positive work culture, and providing opportunities for skill development. Involving all levels of the organization in the process ensures a holistic approach, with leadership setting the tone and employees actively participating in engagement initiatives. Continuous improvement and adaptability are essential, as the needs and expectations of trucking employees may evolve over time.

Invest in Your Employee Engagement and Retention Practices

Employee engagement and retention is not just a short-term solution for trucking companies but a pathway to long-term success and stability. The potential benefits include a more satisfied and productive workforce, improved safety records, and a positive impact on the company's bottom line. The encouragement for the trucking industry is straightforward – by prioritizing employee engagement, companies can build a more prosperous and sustainable future.

Want to learn how TransForce has helped carriers connect with a network of thousands of professional truck drivers? Talk to an expert today!