Should I Become a Truck Driver?
The open road, the freedom of the highway, the romance of the long-haul trucker. It's a lifestyle that has been immortalized in countless songs, movies and novels. But is the life of a truck driver really as romantic as it's been portrayed? And more importantly, is it the right career for you?
Choosing a career is a significant decision, and it's essential to consider your personality traits and skills when making this choice. It's not just about what you can do, but also about what you enjoy doing. So, let's delve into the world of truck driving and see if it aligns with your personality and skills.
What Does a Truck Driver Do?
At its core, a truck driver's job is to transport goods from one location to another. This could mean driving across town or across the country. However, the daily tasks and responsibilities of a truck driver go beyond just driving. They include:
- Planning routes and meeting delivery schedules
- Inspecting vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues
- Documenting and logging work/rest periods and miles spent driving
- Complying with truck driving rules and regulations
- Maneuvering trucks into loading or unloading positions
There's also a variety of roles within the truck driving profession. For instance, some drivers specialize in transporting hazardous materials, while others might focus on long-haul routes. Delivery truck drivers specialize in transporting smaller shipments in smaller vehicles and within local regions.
What are the Skills Needed to Become a Truck Driver?
Becoming a truck driver requires a unique set of skills, including:
- Driving skills: Perhaps the most obvious skill, truck drivers need to be able to operate large vehicles, often in challenging conditions.
- Physical stamina: Long hours on the road can be physically demanding. Truck drivers need to have the physical stamina to handle the rigors of the job.
- Time management: Truck drivers often have tight schedules to keep. Being able to manage time effectively is crucial.
- Problem-solving: Whether it's a mechanical issue with the truck or a road closure, truck drivers often need to think on their feet and solve problems quickly.
- Communication: Truck drivers need to communicate effectively with dispatchers, customers, and others they encounter on the road.
Which Personality Types Make the Best Truck Drivers?
Certain personality traits can make a person more suited to the truck driving profession. Using the Big Five personality traits and TypeFinder types as references, let's explore which personality types might excel as truck drivers.
Big Five Personality Traits of Truck Drivers
- Openness: Truck drivers often encounter new experiences and situations on the road. Those who are open to new experiences might find this aspect of the job appealing. On the other hand, those with low Openness may enjoy the practical, routine nature of the job.
- Conscientiousness: Truck drivers need to be responsible, organized and dependable to ensure that deliveries are made on time and safely.
- Extraversion: While truck driving can be solitary, it also requires interaction with others. However, both extraverts and introverts can excel in this profession.
- Agreeableness: Truck drivers often need to interact with customers, dispatchers and others. Being agreeable and cooperative can be beneficial in these interactions, although high agreeableness is not a requirement for the job.
- Neuroticism: This trait is not as relevant for truck drivers. However, those with low neuroticism might handle the stress and unpredictability of the job better.
You can take our Big Five personality test to see how these traits play out in your life.
TypeFinder Types of Truck Drivers
Certain TypeFinder types might find the truck driving profession more suitable. For instance, ISTPs and ISTJs, with their practical, detail-oriented nature, might excel in this profession. They might enjoy the independence and the hands-on problem-solving aspects of the job. Take our TypeFinder assessment to find out your unique type!
How to Get Started Becoming a Truck Driver
If you're interested in becoming a truck driver, start by getting a commercial driver's license (CDL). You might also consider taking part in a professional truck driving training program. Additionally, consider taking career assessments like the Career Personality Profiler Test, Holland Code, or DISC to help guide your decision-making.
Should I Become a Truck Driver?
Every personality has unique potential within the truck driving profession. Whether you're an extrovert who enjoys meeting new people on the road or an introvert who relishes the solitude of the open highway, there's a place for you in this profession. So, if the call of the open road appeals to you, why not take the next step in exploring a career as a truck driver?
