e-news for trucking recruitment, retention, and human resource professionals
Jan 2010
SubscribeArchivesTestimonialsPressContact Us


HOME


DriverHEALTH

Quote of the Day

“As a child my family’s menu consisted of two choices: Take it or leave it.”
Buddy Hackett, comedian




Drivers Sound Off

In good times and bad, in thriving economies and in recessions such as the one the United States and much of the rest of the world is now enduring, one thing remains constant as far as the trucking industry is concerned: experienced, safe, reliable drivers are always in demand.

Carriers and fleets may have their own definition of the ideal driver, but is anyone better positioned to answer the question than drivers themselves? With that in mind, Driver HEALTH magazine asked a handful of drivers the following question:

What’s your definition of a true professional?

Here are some of the replies:

Derek Kroninger, 30, Shepherdsville, KY
Professional driving experience: 11 years

“There are some real idiots out here. I don’t know what makes a true professional, but you should at least have a level head on your shoulders. That’s a good start. Show a little common sense. Remember you’re driving something down the interstate that weighs 80,000 pounds. If you have a little common sense, a little general knowledge, you can go pretty far in this business. The problem is, we have too many idiots out here and I have no idea how they ever got a CDL.”


Dustin Link, 24, Boyceville, WI
Professional driving experience: 6 years

“Someone who’s courteous to other drivers, knows how to drive and takes care of himself. Hygiene is a big thing. I’m an owner-operator and I can’t believe what some of these company guys look like when they get out of their truck. I think to myself, ‘That right there is why truckers get a bad rap.’ Be professional about what you do. Take pride in your job. Don’t get on the radio and start cussing every other word. Clean up after yourself. Don’t leave a mess in the parking lot. That’s not asking too much.”


Mike Roberts, 48, Oklahoma City, OK
Professional driving experience: 20 years

“It’s pretty simple. Somebody who always delivers the load on time and has no accidents or speeding tickets. That’s about it. Like I said, it’s a pretty simple job. Why make it too complicated?”


Robert Michael Webb, 53, Midland, NC
Professional driving experience: 37 years

“It’s starts with courtesy. Treat people right, especially your customers. I always go the extra mile for the customer. When I hook up to a load, I make sure that load is delivered on time and in a safe manner. Watch out for all the drivers around you. Constantly watch your mirrors. Do not leave your lane until you are sure you’re clear. I’ve driven millions and millions of miles with no accidents and no claims. You do that by always understanding your circumstances and driving accordingly.”



Return to Homepage



Ask us about the official publication of the HTAA -- Driver HEALTH magazine!
To learn more about how to put our team to work on your driver recruitment advertising needs,
call our advertising sales team at 800-878-0311 or go to: RampMediaGroup.com.