Fleet managers: How to be a successful manager

“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way.” -John C. Maxwell! 

There are thousands of research studies, case studies and books out there on how to be an effective leader and manager. As a fleet manager, this all applies to you as well. It is imperative that a fleet manager motivates their staff,face challenges and addresses it head on! 

As a fleet manager in the trucking industry, there are several qualities that can help you succeed in your fleet. Here are the top four qualities a fleet manager should work towards to provide their fleet with the best leadership out there. 

Embrace technology 

As a new decade and year approaches, 2020 could be the perfect time for a fleet manager to embrace technology. A new research study shows that fleets using fleet management software will increase from eight million to 16 million by 2022! This includes real-time GPS and automated vehicle maintenance alerts. 

As everyone in the trucking industry understands, the ELD mandated that all truckers electronically log all of their miles for every drive. This was a major switch for truckers and their management due to traditional ways for tracking these miles.

The best part about all of this is the market has now been flooded with software, apps and automation to help truckers and their fleet managers to be highly effective and embrace these new challenges of learning new technology. 

Safety is at the forefront 

Safety is one of the most critical aspects of the trucking industry. Not only does a fleet manager manage their terminal, but this person is responsible for keeping up-to-date with maintenance and trucking regulations with HOS, DOT and  FMCSA associations, along with, any local and state regulations for each different terminals.

All of this is up to the fleet manager to understand and keep their truckers safe on the road each and everyday. 

Keeping trucks moving and business booming 

A fleet manager will be responsible to keep truckers and trucks moving products and keeping business steady and booming! The trucking industry does not have an exception when it comes to tight budget just like any other industry out there. A fleet manager should be business savvy, they should know when to call for help with a dispatcher, outsource drivers or known when to expand! 

Provide work/life balance 

Truckers have a life and family as well! In the trucking industry, it is not common to hear the words work/life balance. However, all terminals with TransWood offers truckers the ability for a work/life balance, unlike others in the industry!

A trucker can still be home for the holidays and family events and enjoy their career! 

These are only four qualities that all fleet managers and owners should possess to help their fleet and terminals succeed each and everyday!

At TransWood, we are dedicated to keeping our employees happy, safe and healthy. If you are interested in becoming a driver or mechanic in the trucking industry, please visit our website to fill out an application!