Truck Driver Jobs Made Easy
Qualified truckers can find great truck driver jobs fast (even in this economy) due to the high employment demand from national transportation companies.
However, over 15% of all job applicants are disqualified immediately after submitting a job application to the trucking firm. Even truck drivers with extensive driving experience fall victim to being turned away if they are not prepared and organized for the hiring process.
How To Increase Your Chances Of Getting Hired
The hiring secret of applying for truck driver jobs is knowing what to expect and getting organized. Since most recruiters are hiring only for the company they work for, it is a good idea to speak with as many trucking recruiters as possible.
Tell the recruiter about your skills and experience and let them give you feedback about what they need for their company. Take notes and most importantly, if you are not a good fit, ask them what other companies you should speak to that might be a better fit for your current experience. Recruiters often are familiar with other trucking firms hiring practices and may be able to point you in the right direction. Best of all, ask for a name you can contact directly.
What Information Do I Need To Have?
There are a number of items that a recruiter will expect to cover with you. Being prepared and having all documentation will increase your chances of being hired quickly while reducing your chances or being eliminated instantly.
7 Things You Must Know Before Your Interview
- When applying for truck driver jobs, never lie to your recruiter. He is actually there to help you. However, if you are not completely honest during this process you risk being found out later after you have been hired. You are far better off not getting the job than being fired for not disclosing the truth.
- DOT numbers, W2 tax forms, Pay Stubs, and letters of recommendation. These are standard items the recruiter will want before going forward.
- Passport, Drivers License, or some forms of ID proving you are able to work in the US. You will also need to fill out an I-9 document when you are hired.
- List your employment history for the last three years. In some cases your may be asked to cover your work experience up to 10 years. If you were unemployed during any of this time period, explain why and provide documentation to the recruiter.
- Former employer contact information including company names, location and managers name. If any of these companies are no longer in business, show pay-stubs, employment agreements, or tax information.
- Your current CDL showing your home address where you reside.
- Your MVR or a driving record copy.
Homeland Security Requirements
New regulations regarding Homeland Security require truck drivers applying for truck driver jobs to have a background check prior to being hired for all commercial truck drivers. This check is extensive and includes Department of Motor Vehicle records (wherever you have been licensed) as well as national criminal records.
Potential employers will also get copies of the DAC report. This report reveals issues with former trucking companies, accident reports and previous employment.
Disclose, Disclose, Disclose…
Make certain that you disclose to the recruiter any negative information right up front. If you do not, you risk the chance of the recruiter finding this out and most likely eliminating you immediately from the list of potential candidates. One of the biggest concerns to a new employer is your accident record over the past 3 year period. Provide any report documentation available including accident reports and ticket information.
Drug screening has become more and more prevalent in the job hiring process. Be willing to take a drug test on the spot as well as certify that you are drug free. Any offer of employment will be contingent upon passing this test.
Medical Issues
Another important area is your medical condition. Is there anything that may raise questions from your future employer regarding your ability to handle your responsibilities as a truck driver? Keep in mind that it is against the law for a trucking company to ask about your medical health prior to hiring you. However you can be fired later for inability to fulfill your job requirements. A doctor’s release from a recent surgery or medical issue clearing you to drive Commercial vehicles will help clear you of any future hiring issues.
You’re Almost There
Your final hurdle will be the behind-the-wheel road test and DOT physical. If you are currently a driver for another company and looking to change jobs, the road test should be easy. If you haven’t driven in a while, make sure you find a way to log in some drive time so you are prepared for the test.
Congratulations!
Truck driver jobs are easy to get if you have prepared properly, have your documents together and present yourself professionally to your new trucking company.