Today, many organizations are having trouble finding the talent they need to fill their open positions. As a result, companies need to seize every opportunity to boost recruitment and retention efforts. One path worth exploring is how driver motivation influences candidates and employees. 

By understanding what motivates drivers secured through transport hiring services and other means, you can adjust your company’s message accordingly. You can speak to the needs and preferences of company drivers and owner-operators, drawing candidates toward your opportunities. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here’s a look at what motivates drivers. 

What Motivates Company Drivers

When it comes to company drivers, one of the biggest motivators is job security and stability. Most drivers in this category are interested in staying with a company long term. However, they want to know that they’ll be well-supported if they remain on board. 

The pandemic only amplified the desire for job security and stability. COVID-19 created a lot of uncertainty, including for those working in the transportation industry. As a result, company drivers increasingly saw the value in employers that went the extra mile to support their staff, causing that to become a priority today. 

Beyond stability and job security, company drivers are also looking for competitive compensation. Along with access to solid, reliable income, medical coverage and retirement options are widely desired. In many ways, these connect to stability and security, as they create a strong financial foundation and provide protection, both now and into their future. 

What Motivates Owner-Operators

For owner-operators, flexibility is the name of the game. Owner-operators aren’t traditional employees, so they aren’t looking for the same arrangements as company drivers. In most cases, they want to maintain a degree of independence, something that company drivers may not worry about as much. 

Usually, this means maintaining a degree of agility and having a say in how they work. The ability to set their hours is a top priority for many owner-operators. Similarly, the option to choose routes or select haul durations is critical for many drivers in this category. 

While solid pay is also important, income was actually a lower priority than those listed above. As a result, while you’ll want to offer competitive compensation, highlighting those benefits can be a great way to attract more talent and retain them. 

Ultimately, different kinds of drivers do have different motivations when choosing an employer. By addressing their needs and preferences and advertising what you have to offer while recruiting, you will have an easier time connecting to top talent. Then, by continuing to focus on what they need, retaining your best and brightest will get easier. 

If you’re looking for reliable drivers and need to hire quickly, partnering with leading transport hiring services can help you thrive. If you’re looking for a partner that focuses on the transportation industry, offering flexible, customizable options based on your company’s needs, the team at PTS® wants to hear from you. Contact us today.