Recruiting for Success

 

It seems, especially during this pandemic time, to be more convenient to communicate through a quick text message or email. Applying for a job has even simplified into a one-click application submission. Although this new tech savvy way of information exchange is catching on, the need to be social is human nature and is bound to win out in the end. This realization is why Storey has always been a different story

Our “Driver First” policy is evident on that first phone call with a recruiter. We realize that the job opportunity for an interested driver is a mutually beneficial business deal. We are honest with our expectations and make sure that the driver’s wants and needs can, and will be met if hired. That first conversation is meant to provide clarity for both parties and to get a real feel for the work environment at Storey. 

We know that drivers have a choice. We want to give them all the information, so they can make the right one. Although drivers want competitive pay and mileage, they also want a combination of all the benefits, including work-life balance, consistent home time, and the possibility for career growth. Storey’s familial environment translates into their business model. Relaying that to prospective drivers is what makes our recruitment team so special. They are able to translate the whole experience package in a transparent and honest way so that the driver truly knows that to expect.

Learning the importance of these communication processes did not just become apparent to us all of a sudden. We were taught by one of the best recruiters in the business, Steve Berryman. Steve’s superior skills were a result of working first as a driver for Storey Trucking, then as a dispatcher, where he concurrently became Storey’s recruitment specialist. Having experience in these three areas allowed Steve to have a unique perspective on how to improve communication within the company and with drivers. He stressed that perception is reality and despite the intention of a message, how it can be interpreted is where you need to begin. Developing cohesive communication throughout the departments and making sure that the drivers’ opinions are heard, were practices that Steve committed to upholding and improving. 

Sadly, Steve suddenly passed away in September 2020. We were heartbroken, mourning the loss of our friend, but knew that we had to quickly fill his position to keep the company moving forward. The ideal candidate had to exemplify honesty, be able to provide prompt, thoughtful responses and always show respect to the driver. These characteristics were prominent when we discovered Dakota Crosslin. Dakota came on board and immediately understood the importance of transparent communication from day one of the recruitment process. He has since added additional beneficial strategies and developed trusted relationships with the drivers.

 
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If you or someone you know is looking for a personalized experience with an emphasis on meeting your needs as a driver, you can reach Dakota at (423) 206-2290 or apply on our website at StoreyTrucking.com.

 

We are reminded every day how blessed we are as a company to have had Steve in our lives. With every driver that stays another year, every driver referral and every positive comment or ‘like’ on social media, we thank Steve for impressing the importance of taking time to not just make a connection with someone, but in order to gain trust and commitment, the key is to build a relationship. Prior to his passing, we began the process to nominate him for the 2020 Transport Topics, Recruiter of the Year Award. Due to the pandemic, the award ceremony has been postponed until November 2021, but we are thrilled that the committee is still accepting our nomination. We will communicate the results as soon as they are awarded.