Any employer knows it’s far more cost effective to maintain good personnel than it is to hire new. The costs and resources associated with employee turnover, recruitment, and training can quickly impact your bottom line and operating expenses. So how to do you hold on to those safe and professional drivers? Here are a few tips!

• Recognize and reward them. Stand out employees should be recognized for their contributions to the organization and rewarded as such. Something as simple as a thank you with details as to how they went above and beyond can go a long way. Drivers who are on the road and away from home may appreciate a restaurant gift card in recognition of their efforts.
• Offer them opportunities. Do you have a driver who would prefer to be closer to home? When an opportunity arises consider offering those routes to existing staff before posting for external candidates.
• Show them your organization is committed to them. In a high turnover industry, feeling a sense of job security can have a significant impact on an employee’s morale. Consider placing your drivers names on the outside of their trucks to demonstrate that your organization hopes to maintain them for years to come.
• Tell others that you’re proud of them. Nominate your employees for awards in the industry. Let them and others know that you value their contributions and efforts. The NPTC Driver Hall of Fame is an excellent place to do so. For more information on eligibility and to download an application visit the NPTC here. Applications for 2013 must be received by February 1, 2013.
• Provide a great working atmosphere. Offering newer equipment and clean facilities can be a great enticement for your staff. With recruiting efforts becoming increasingly more aggressive now is the time to brand your organization as one that drivers want to work for. Providing a safe and progressive environment can greatly influence your drivers to stay. Do you feel your private fleet provides an outstanding safety record consider applying for the NPTC Fleet Safety Awards. For more information and an application visit the NPTC here. Applications for 2013 must be received by February 8, 2013.

Creating and maintaining a safe and positive work environment can not only improve employee retention but also decrease accidents, injuries, and equipment damage costs. If you are struggling to retain your drivers consider partnering with a third party consultant or an industry specialized staffing firm for more information on attracting and retaining a safe and stand out staff.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professional drivers? Contact us today! Learn more about our Dedicated Driver Services here! Are you a safe and professional driver who is seeking a rewarding career? Visit us here to locate a driving career in your area!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.