Professionalism

What you say is true about sloppily dressed drivers with poor hygiene. Let's turn part of your comment around and ask why can't the shippers and receivers act like they actually give a damn, not treat show contempt towards drivers, and act in a professional and courteous manner?

Here’s a pet peeve of mine. And I know everyone’s different. If you show up to a shipper or receiver, why don’t you try and look like you are ready to work? What ever happened to looking capable, competent and professional? Take pride in your appearance at least a little and maybe if we did that the trucking industry wouldn’t be so looked down upon.

There is a lot to be said about dressing professionally. Every job I've worked where I didn't wear company issued clothing I always made an effort to dress professionally, and it makes a real difference as to they way you are treated and the opportunities that are presented to you. My first job was a cashier at Target, while in high school - I wore slacks and a button down shirt every day; customers and employees alike thought I was a new manager! haha!

When I owned a party company and delivered bounce houses for a living, I wore clean jeans and a polo shirt my my company name embroidered - first impressions are everything.

I couldn’t agree more.... I wear jeans and a button down levi style denium shirt.... I also carry myself in a proffessional manner. Customers appreciate that. I usually have a better customer contact in the tanker world than you find in warehouses. Always remember one simple rule... You never get a second chance too make a good first impression....

why can't the shippers and receivers act like they actually give a damn, not treat show contempt towards drivers, and act in a professional and courteous manner?

The overwhelming majority of people react far more often than they act. In other words, why do you think some act badly toward drivers? You've seen enough drivers to know that answer.

And to be honest, there aren't very many customers I would say don't give a damn. They may not have fancy facilities or go out of their way to serve free coffee and donuts, but would you expect them to?

The more professional we act the more professionally we'll be treated. That's the approach to take and it's the only thing we have control over.

I confess, when I'm running forklifts down to Miami, etc. Yes, I wear shorts, but they aren't skanky ones. Khaki generally gets too much commotion started because they tend to match my skin tone and looks like I'm pantsless when standing up in the truck. Ask my other half lol. I generally wear company logo shirts while working. I only wear sandals when off duty and taking a trainee to the beach etc.

I own 1 pair of sweatpants. Usually sleep in them when it's COLD.

I don't typically have that problem since were required to wear steel toes, long pants (jeans) and long sleeves. On to of that hardhat, gloves and safety goggles and vest. Without that your kicked out of the quarry for 6 months minimum and some customers won't let you back in the property.

I do make a point to be friendly with everyone and chat. Some places have my truck info started before I even hit the office and do what they can to get me in and out.

Carriers over to your shop guys too. Wrote up my fuel filter tonight and by the time I parked the truck and stopped in to chat they had the new one on the table and asked where I left the truck. I did give him a big filet of pollock from my deep sea trip this fall as appreciation for all he does.

I cannot agree more about acting in a professional manner. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. I am certain this is why it so frustrating when I come upon those receiving personnel who act in a disrespectful manner towards me for whatever reason. Could it be due to how drivers have behaved towards them in the past? Possibly. Probably. Thankfully, I do not have to interact too long with those customers who act In such a manner. I get to spend most of my day with me, myself and I, merrily performing my job. Now, about those free donuts and coffee?

why can't the shippers and receivers act like they actually give a damn, not treat show contempt towards drivers, and act in a professional and courteous manner?

The overwhelming majority of people react far more often than they act. In other words, why do you think some act badly toward drivers? You've seen enough drivers to know that answer.

And to be honest, there aren't very many customers I would say don't give a damn. They may not have fancy facilities or go out of their way to serve free coffee and donuts, but would you expect them to?

The more professional we act the more professionally we'll be treated. That's the approach to take and it's the only thing we have control over.

Thanks G-Town.

I cannot agree more about acting in a professional manner. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. I am certain this is why it so frustrating when I come upon those receiving personnel who act in a disrespectful manner towards me for whatever reason. Could it be due to how drivers have behaved towards them in the past? Possibly. Probably. Thankfully, I do not have to interact too long with those customers who act In such a manner. I get to spend most of my day with me, myself and I, merrily performing my job. Now, about those free coffee and donuts.

Just remember that you have to be professional to yourself too....lol. I always feel better about myself and what I am doing if I am dressed appropriately.

Totally agree with that Christian.