About half of drivers said they don't feel respected in their jobs, and many feel undervalued, according to a recent survey taken at truckstops.


While more than half of respondents are happy with the job and would recommend the trucking industry, 65 percent said they would remain with their company only until something better comes along.

The survey found that 30 percent did not make enough to meet their needs, and more than half don't feel they have a well-defined future in their current jobs. Of those surveyed, 80 percent have three to 10 years of driving experience, while 55 percent have more than 10 years under their belt.

"The displeasure comes in part from distrust for their employers, a lack of respect and a desire for compensation that factors in experience and accomplishments," said Bill Kistner of Trincon Group, which conducted the survey.

In light of the results, the survey calls for improvements to the environment within the trucking industry, including:

• Instituting higher standards for hiring drivers.
• Allowing drivers to have more time at home on a consistent basis.
• Fostering a career path that promotes, recognizes and rewards drivers accordingly.
• Keeping drivers in the know on what is going on in the company and how changes affect them at least three times a year.
• Recognizing and compensating drivers for experience and accomplishments.
• Creating a pay plan based on performance, training and accomplishments.
• Meeting with drivers to provide regular reviews, so they know their status and what they need to improve.
• Requiring drivers attend mandatory training sessions on driving skills, technology, customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Giving drivers the opportunity to meet, get to know and interact with people who effect their ability to do their job.

"The drivers have clearly told us what needs to be done, there are no longer any excuses for not acting," said Kistner. "Success will neither be easy or instant, but management needs to take action to ease the problem of driver turnover and help create a quality environment to positively effect current economic times as well as the future."