So, you are looking into becoming a driver!
Truck driving is a great career opportunity for those who can acclimate to life on the road. It’s important for prospective drivers to research the industry, different companies, and to be sure that they have a lifestyle which is compatible with truck driving.
There are a number of difficulties that new drivers typically face when starting their careers in the industry. We’ve compiled a quick list to help you prepare and take necessary steps to avoid issues like these at the start of your career.
Top 4 Problems Most New Truck Drivers Face:
1. Struggling to land that first job. Initially, it can be difficult to land your first job. Many people fear rejection, and when they hear “NO” for the first time – they want to give up. Just remember there are many trucking companies across the country. Just because you don’t get the job after the first couple of attempts, it doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel. There are 725,331 trucking companies in the United States. Keep your head up! If driving a truck is something you really want to do, don’t give up!
2. Income. You may hear that the average truck driver makes around $38,000 per year, or even $40,000 – depending upon who you talk to. Be prepared to make less money in your first year of driving. That average includes experienced and long-time drivers, as well as those who are new to the industry. Every driver’s salary is going to vary – depending upon the company you work for. Don’t expect to make $40,000 right out of the gate. If you work hard and put in your time, your pay will continue to grow.
3. Time Away from Home. New drivers can be on the road from anywhere from 2-5 weeks at a time. This is something that’s really important to understand before getting into the trucking industry. If being away from home for that long is not something you want, then you probably won’t enjoy this job. Another important step is to consult those close to you before jumping into this type of job. If you have a family or are in a relationship, those individuals will have to deal with your being gone as well. If you take off on a three-week trip and your significant other doesn’t understand your commitments, problems could potentially arise. Family problems are one of the last things you want to worry about when you are on the road. Talk things over and formulate a communication plan to keep in touch with those close to you on a regular basis.
4. Sour Relationship with Dispatcher. Your dispatcher can be your best friend or your worst enemy, so it is important to get started on the right foot with them. If you are negative or rude with your dispatcher and they decide to return the favor, it can make life on the road difficult. Try to build a rapport there and create a friendship if possible. Even if your dispatcher is negative, it can make a world of difference if you try to approach the relationship with a positive attitude.
These were just a few obstacles that a new driver may encounter early in his or her career. What are some things you struggled with when you started driving?
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