The UK has been experiencing a HGV driver shortage, with a reported 76,000 fewer drivers than needed in 2020. Since the pandemic, this crisis has only gotten worse.

The surge in demand for HGV drivers has certainly increased in the last few years, so we’re here to look at the ways in which haulage companies can attract more HGV drivers.

Define your company culture

A healthy company culture means setting out clear values that align with your brand’s messaging. This can then create a positive working environment for your employees, allowing for their own personal progression as well as working towards business goals.

This defined company culture will help with the retention of your staff and present a more desirable place to work for potential new talent looking to join your company.

Use relevant publications

Post your job adverts in relevant publications that are targeted towards your intended audience. It’s a cost-effective way to reach your target market by creating material that’s relevant and appealing to them.

Posting in these publications can also reach a wider demographic and help to get the message out even further. Someone may read it who has a family member or friend that would be perfect for the job, so it’s important to target as many people as possible.

Attend career fairs

Get your name out there and spread the word by attending career fairs to get your brand known in the industry. You can use flyers and banners to increase brand awareness and really make your job advertisements stand out amongst the rest.

The people who attend these career fairs are actively browsing the job market, so it’s crucial that you have a stand set up ready to answer any questions.

Include fun tasks and games that everyone can get involved in, hand out some promotional company products and ensure to have an information pack with a detailed description of your business and the job role.

Networking

Any form of networking, whether that be online or face-to-face, can enable people to be more aware of your business. If you’re meeting new people in person, they can put a face to a name and hear from yourself about what you have to say for the business and the new job roles being advertised.

The more connections you have, the more awareness and exposure your company will receive. It gives you a chance to break into new markets and collaborate with other companies, overall boosting your image.

As you continue to expand your business through networking, a whole new cohort of people will be aware of your business, wanting to know more about your culture and the opportunities you have to offer.

HGV driver shortage

About the Author: John Loughran