Sr. Transportation Management Editor — J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.
Build a top-tier performance management program with effective driver coaching.
Written by:
Mark Schedler
Sr. Transportation Management Editor — J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.
Successful driver coaching and correction on unsafe behavior, particularly from driver-specific video footage, minimizes the potential for negligent supervision and maximizes your return on investment in proactive safety systems. In order to build a top-tier performance management program, your driver coaching sessions should be conducted in five critical stages.
Timing is everything. For the best results, make sure you’re applying your coaching process in a timely manner, which includes:
Focus on the facts, avoid emotions, and don’t make assumptions. To ensure an unbiased and diplomatic approach to your coaching sessions,
First and foremost, greet the driver in a positive manner and treat them with respect during the session. With each coaching opportunity, make a concerted effort to:
Your coaching should be carried out as a conversation. In addition to asking meaningful questions, you should be listening carefully to the driver’s side of the story. You can achieve the right balance between corrective action and recognition by:
Encourage the driver to take accountability for their actions going forward. This means gaining commitment from the driver to:
Remember, coaching will sustain behavioral and cultural change when it’s ongoing and relies on rapport building skills. A “gotcha” mentality won’t be well-received by drivers, and hardly encourages improvement. End each coaching session on a positive note by thanking the driver, letting him or her know you are available any time, and reminding them they are a valuable member of the safety team.
Learn more about incorporating effective coaching into your performance management program by requesting your copy of The Fleet Manager’s Playbook: Using Driver Data for a Safe and Productive Fleet.
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