Professional truck driving is expected to grow by 6% over the next eight years, making it a stable, rewarding career path. If you’ve ever considered becoming a truck driver, you may have questioned whether you’re cut out for the job. Likewise, if you just finished CDL training, you might be wondering what skills to emphasize on your resume. Below, our instructors tackle both dilemmas and discuss what makes a good truck driver.
4 Traits That Successful Truck Drivers Share
- Competent
Truck drivers must be capable behind the wheel. Therefore, they should not only receive a commercial driver’s license (CDL) but also have a solid driving history. The better the record, the more employable the applicant.
If you have received a few tickets over the years, don’t worry. Small infractions like minor speeding and incorrect parking won’t count against you. Serious violations such as failing to stop after a motor vehicle accident or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in CDL disqualification, though.
- Decisive
The road can be an unpredictable place, and truck drivers have a personal commitment to operating their commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safely. Hence, they must follow all safety procedures—as covered in CDL training—as well as practice defensive driving. More importantly, drivers should learn how to make smart choices, even when under pressure. Decisiveness can be the difference between a successful delivery and a missed deadline or CMV accident.
- Independent
Office workers operate alongside many different departments and share a communal space. Truck drivers, on the other hand, typically act alone. Employers look for applicants who will succeed in this unique environment. Being independent won’t just help you land a job right out of truck driving school, though. It can also allow you to start your own business as an owner-operator.
- Collaborative
While truck drivers do most of the job, they still need to be team players. These professionals frequently work with shipping and receiving personnel to ensure deliveries arrive at their intended destination both safely and punctually. Employers hire drivers who can connect with these individuals. They also look for applicants who excel in communication and conflict resolution.
Do you have these four traits? Then, truck driving might be the profession for you. At Hamrick School, our passionate instructors will give you the skills and support necessary to succeed in this new career path. Visit our Training Programs page to learn more about our curriculum, or call (330) 239-2229 for more on the admissions process.