Life on the Road – Trucking News Blog

A couple of years ago I got into a rather heated discussion with another driver regarding the question of whether or not truckers were “professional drivers”. He insisted that, until people started treating him as a professional, he couldn’t consider himself to be a professional. I, on the other hand, argued that unless I acted as a professional I couldn’t really expect others to treat me as a professional.

My argument, then, begs the question: Just what the heck does it mean to act as a professional? Well, I think Alistair Cooke may have said it best: “A professional is someone who can do his best work when he doesn’t feel like it.” In other words; it’s all about action and attitude.

The people we work with and the people we come in contact with – shippers, receivers, and the public in general – take note of our behavior and form opinions regarding our competence, character, and commitment. Unfortunately, those opinions are likely to be colored by a negative stereotype. The only way I know of to overcome a negative stereotype is by repeatedly refuting it – projecting a positive attitude and performing in a highly competent manner; no matter the circumstance.

To the subject of professionalism, at least on this blog, I’m a Johnny-come-lately. Kathy wrote about the Trucker Profile, Mark wrote about Pride in Your Ride and Wayne has written about Trucking Business Software and Old Salts. Take a look at those posts, they’re all well worth the time, and then give us your insight. What it is that you believe makes you a Professional Driver? Let us know!