History tells us that January is the most active recruiting month in trucking. For most trucking companies, more drivers are hired in January than any other month of the year.
It's likely that you, or someone you know will be attending an orientation in the coming weeks. Except for the names on the paperwork, most company orientations are similar in presentation. The first day, usually a Monday consists of a road test, physical, drug screen and completing the required paperwork to become an employee or contractor.
The second and third days cover company policies and procedures for operations, payroll, maintenance and safety. The final day involves truck assignment and dispatch. And when it’s over, it’s over. Very few companies have any type of follow up training after the initial orientation.
So while you're there, you need to make the most of it. It may be your only opportunity to speak directly with the office employees who control your destiny.
Not all company orientations are created equal, some companies are much better at it than others, but it’s as much your responsibility to get oriented, as it is the company’s responsibility to orient you.
Here are a few pointers that you, as a driver, can use to make the orientation a
worthwhile experience.
1. INFORMATION
Know the details before you get there. Don’t be afraid to inquire about the orientation process.
- What expenses are you responsible for? (meals, motel, travel, etc.)
- When does orientation start? When does it end? Is it paid?
- Is transportation available while you are at orientation?
- What, if any, charges will you be responsible for? (physical, drug screen)
- Who should you contact in the event of a personal emergency?
- What happens should you fail to complete the orientation?
- When will you receive your first paycheck?
- Are there any special tools, copies of documents or paperwork you should bring with you?
2. IMPRESSIONS
This is your opportunity to put your best foot forward. First impressions are lasting impressions.
- Dress properly. Jeans are acceptable if they are clean and not worn out.
- Shoes are mandatory – no flip-flops or sandals. Shirts are a must as well.
(Don’t laugh, we’ve seen people arrive at orientation wearing cut off sweat pants, a tank top and barefoot – they weren’t there long!)
- Everyone appreciates proper personal hygiene.
- Be professional, courteous and interested.
3. KNOWLEDGE
Orientation is the time to ask questions. As stated earlier, this may be your only opportunity to be face-to-face with the people who can help you.
- The only stupid question is the one you don’t ask. If you don’t understand
a policy or procedure, now is the time to get it straight.
- Take down, names, numbers and extensions of supervisors and managers.
It’s important to know who can help you and how to contact them.
- Don’t be shy about introducing yourself. The more people who know you the better your chances are for success with the company.
4. PROFESSIONALISM
Every carrier is looking for a driver with experience, but what they really want is a professional driver. A driver who understands what it takes to get the job done, and who can be successful in their system. You can establish yourself as that kind of driver during the orientation process by being professional, courteous and interested.
We'll be at the Midwest Truckers Association's 43rd Annual Mid-West Truck Show in Peoria, IL on February 3rd and 4th at the Peoria Civic Center. Stop by and see us if you get the chance.
Until next time, keep on truckin' and please drive safely.
Your Comments Are Always Welcome
We do like to hear from you and we invite you to give us your ideas and feedback about what kind of information you would like to see in the e-Report. Please send your ideas and suggestions to: jobs@truckdriver.com
"It is better to offer no excuse than a bad one."
~ George Washington ~
