3 Tips for First Year Trucking Success
In my last blog, I talked about the 6 truths in your first year of trucking. These 6 truths just cracked the surface on what it’s really like out here on the road. Throughout the next few months, I will try to help explain even more about the first year.
You see, the first year of trucking is when a lot of new drivers decide this isn't the lifestyle for them. However, this decision is often made when trucking is truly the most challenging. There is certainly a huge learning curve in a driver’s first year on the road; but, I promise as time goes by everything will slow down and you’ll be able to take advantage of the awesome opportunities trucking provides.
I was a first year trucker, just like everyone else. The biggest thing I can tell you is that if you’re willing to put in the work (please see #4 on my last blog) and drive the miles, you will be rewarded. After the first year opportunities will begin to open up all around you. By making it through the biggest turnover time in the trucking industry, you will open doors to career opportunities you may have never thought were possible. In my opinion, each new challenge in trucking comes with an even greater reward. And that’s why I want to share with you some tips for 1st year trucking success.
1. Build Trust
During your first year in trucking, you and the company you’re driving for will learn a lot about one another. Ultimately, this will help create your working relationship - good or bad. Understand this. Embrace this. Make sure they know what to expect in terms of your performance. Do everything you can to know they can trust your word. It may seem pretty basic, but if you just do the right thing it will be amazing how things just fall into place. I really don't think there's another job in America where a company would hand you the keys to a job with so much responsibility and say "let's get it done.” Please, recognize this and be aware that it’s going to take time to get that trust factor in place. Remember, having trust between you and the company you’re driving for is vital to a successful trucking career.
2. Adapt to Change
One of the most challenging things in the first year is dealing with change. In this business, things change quickly and often. Your load could change due to weather, or maybe there’s a lack of product at the shipper. Going with the flow and just getting the job done will save you a lot of headaches. When it comes to dealing with change, having an “I can get it done” attitude will make your job a whole lot easier, no matter what challenges come your way. I promise you, this approach will get you far in this career.
3. Practice Patience
I think one of the most important pieces of advice I can offer to new drivers is not to bring anger into the truck while behind the wheel. Anger behind the wheel of any vehicle can be dangerous...let alone a big rig. In your first year, anger can take over an entire day or even a week. Don’t let it. Just don’t let it. Staying patient, especially in the first year, will set you up for successes moving forward. With patience, your time on the road becomes more enjoyable. You can take in the beauty of this country instead of thinking about things that are just out of your control.
How I Got Started with Driver Solutions
What really helped me get off to a great start in trucking was choosing to work with Driver Solutions. After applying online, I talked with a representative that helped place me at a trucking school that was convenient to where I live. I was able to attend training without having to pay any tuition fees, and learned from experienced teachers who had first hand experience trucking. Apply today to find out how Driver Solutions can help you get your career in trucking started!
About The Author
Wayne got his start in trucking by going through the Driver Solutions company paid CDL training program back in 2012. Since then, he has traveled over 300,000 safe miles and counting! After seeing his photos and reading about his adventures, we knew we had to share them on our blog. Join Wayne on his journey for a first hand look at life on the road!