Recently a colleague of mine pointed out that in reviewing the help wanted ads in the local Sunday paper, he estimated a 400% increase in the number of advertisements seeking qualified CDL-A drivers. As freight levels increase, have you begun planning how to locate experienced, quality drivers?
This month I thought I would spend some time outlining a few places to consider checking when you are looking to fill your vacant drivers’ seats.
Current Drivers: Often your best hires will come to you at the recommendation of your top employees. To increase the potential for word of mouth recruitment, you may even offer a small bonus to any employee who recommends a driver who is successfully hired.
Local and Regional Newspapers: The help-wanted section of your local or regional newspaper is still a great way to advertise for new drivers. This is especially true when you are in need of drivers to dispatch from your out-of-town terminals or to service your shippers who are located in another city. And, in many cases, newspaper advertisements come with an online job posting as well, expanding your reach to include individuals who may be considering relocating to the area in which you are hiring.
State Unemployment and Job Placement Services: Many states offer job placement services to assist employees and employers to find one another. In the state of Michigan you can go to www.MichWorks.org to access an online database of current job seekers. This website will even allow you to set up automatic email alerts to notify you when new resumes are posted with match your job description.
Company Website: If your company has its own website, you might consider adding an Employment or Careers tab. This allows potential drivers to learn more about your company, while also reviewing an applying for any current openings you may have.
Employment Websites: Websites such as www.Monster.com, www.CraigsList.org and www.CareerBuilder.com all offer access to a large bank of potential employees and have job posting services.
Industry Associations: Some industry associations offer members access to employment or job boards. To check, visit the association’s website or call their office.
Industry Publications: Consider running an ad in an industry magazine. You may first want to check with your drivers to see what they are reading to make certain your advertisement will reach your intended audience.
Driver recruitment is just one area where we can help you locate answers. Do you have an area you could use some assistance in? We’d love to help you out. Give us a call today at (800) 596-TRUCK (8782). At the Navigator Truck Insurance Agency we work hard at being accessible, helpful and result oriented.
Until next month,
Jeffery A. Moss, ARM
President