On this episode of DriverReach’s Taking The Hire Road, guest host Leah Shaver, president and CEO of the National Transportation Institute, chats with Kameel Gaines, founder, president and CEO of Rig on Wheels, a third-party driver recruiting firm.
Gaines started Rig on Wheels from her living room more than a decade ago. She has gained a plethora of insights in the process, but one point stands out above the rest: Communication is key.
Consistent, respectful communication should be prioritized on all levels — between trucking companies and third-party recruiters, between internal teams and between drivers and shippers. In fact, trucking companies are imposing stricter communication requirements on their current and future drivers, according to Gaines.
“Companies are rebranding themselves.” Gaines said. “They need to make sure the people who represent them are representing them well. The company wants a driver that communicates well.”
When drivers show up to customer warehouses, they are acting as the face of the company. How a driver interacts with dockworkers and other employees can make or break a shipper-carrier relationship.
When it comes to prioritizing communication between trucking companies and third-party recruiting companies like Rig on Wheels, there should be a strong emphasis on a timely and complete transfer of information.
“It is important we are echoing exactly what you are saying because we are the face of your company as well,” Gaines said.
When trucking companies and their recruiting partners are not acting in lockstep, recruits often receive differing information from the two entities. This creates an additional communication breakdown, leading to confusion and lost opportunities.
In addition to the practical benefits of successful communication, creating a strong rapport among team members and partners can make the work environment feel more safe and inclusive for everyone. For those hoping to attract young people, women and minorities into their workforces, this benefit cannot be overstated.
For Gaines, this looks like nurturing an atmosphere where people can address generational and cultural differences by asking questions. Once the factors dividing people are no longer seen as hurdles to avoid, it is easier for everyone to connect and work together. This is especially true when it comes to communication among internal teams.
“When you’re on one accord, everything runs more smoothly,” Gaines said. “If you communicate well, people are more likely to understand you better. Even if they don’t understand, they are less likely to come to a poor conclusion.”
Click here to learn more about Rig on Wheels
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How St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund supports truckers and their families