There is no denying the importance of having good technical and mechanical skills in the trucking industry. After all, it takes a lot of knowledge and expertise to safely and efficiently drive a big rig. However, in today’s competitive world, truck drivers must have more than technical skills to succeed. Soft skills are the key to success in the trucking industry. Learning soft skills can help drivers be more successful and enjoy a more rewarding career.
What Are Soft Skills?
Soft skills are the non-technical abilities and character traits that complement hard skills in the workplace. They include communication, problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills. In the trucking industry, these skills are particularly essential, as truckers must interact with customers, coworkers, and other professionals on a daily basis.
Essential Soft Skills For Trucking Professionals
Combining soft skills with the technical and mechanical skills necessary for professional truck driving helps truckers excel in their careers.
Five essential soft skills for trucking professionals include:
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Communication Skills
Communication is a critical soft skill for professional drivers. Since drivers spend significant time on the road, they must communicate effectively with other drivers, dispatchers, and customers. Communication involves more than just talking. It also involves actively listening, being able to read between the lines, and understanding the nuances of communication. Drivers need to be able to read people’s facial expressions and body language to communicate effectively.
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Problem-Solving Skills
Problem-solving is another essential soft skill for truck drivers. Drivers often face challenging situations on the road and need to be able to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions. Problem-solving requires the ability to analyze a situation, identify potential solutions, and choose the best course of action.
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Decision-Making Skills
Decision-making skills are also beneficial to trucking professionals. While on the road, drivers must make quick and informed decisions based on the available information. They must also be able to weigh the pros and cons of different decisions and make the best choice for their safety, the safety of other drivers, and the success of their deliveries.
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Critical Thinking Skills
A fourth relevant soft skill for the professional driver is critical thinking. Critical thinking requires looking beyond the surface of a situation and identifying the underlying causes and potential solutions. Drivers must be able to think logically and objectively to make informed decisions and come up with creative solutions to problems.
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Interpersonal Skills
Interpersonal skills are the final necessary soft skill for drivers. As truck drivers often interact with customers, other drivers, and dispatchers, they need to have the ability to remain calm, professional, and courteous throughout these interactions. They must learn to communicate effectively, build relationships, and resolve conflicts.
Learn Essential Trucking Skills at Phoenix Truck Driving Institute
Earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) at a high-quality truck driving school helps set you up for success as a trucking professional. Phoenix Truck Driving Institute combines classroom, range, and on-the-road driving to teach aspiring truck drivers the hard and soft skills necessary to succeed in the industry. When you train at our school, we can help you earn your license in as little as four weeks.
To learn more about our program or schedule a tour of our CDL school, contact one of our advisors today.
