While it is true that truck drivers may have fewer opportunities for social interactions while out on the road, that doesn’t mean you can’t be social and build lasting relationships. People tend to think that truck drivers are secluded, anti-social, and have limited interactions with others, but that isn’t the case. Many truck drivers are friendly, social, and maintain strong relationships with those they meet out on the road. If you are striving to be more social as a truck driver, use these four tips to help you step out of your comfort zone and build new relationships.
Ask Questions
A great way to make connections with people you meet while out on the road is to ask questions. Most of the drivers you meet will be willing to answer a question for you, whether it be about directions, safe driving practices, the local area you are in, or any other topic. Asking a question will increase your knowledge and open the door to further your discussion and interaction with someone. Next time you are unsure of something and you are around other drivers, ask a question instead of trying to figure it out on your own. You will fill satisfied by the social interaction and may walk away with a new friend.
Give a Compliment
There’s no better way to create a friendship than starting it off with a compliment. Giving a compliment is an easy way for someone to open up and begin a conversation. A simple, kind gesture is a surefire way to build a new genuine relationship. Plus, offering a compliment to someone will lift your spirits, so why not do it? If you see someone who you think you would get along well with, offer them a simple compliment to start a conversation.
Connect Online
Even for truckers that are constantly on the move, there are plenty of ways you can keep in touch with those you meet on the road. Thanks to technology, you can text, email, call, and video message practically anyone at any time. Take advantage of this opportunity and stay connected with your fellow trucking friends. Next time you meet someone on the road, ask for their phone number, email, or social media handles and make an effort to keep in touch with them. Even if you are both delivering loads in complete opposite parts of the country, you will be able to still feel connected and have that social interaction.
Get Involved in Trucking Communities
A great way to be social on the road is to get involved in the various trucking communities. Participating in these communities and groups is a simple way to get involved with something you are passionate about and connect with those who share your same interests. Trucking communities like Women in Trucking, American Trucking Association, Truckers Against Trafficking, and various veteran groups often have events, meetups, and social media groups that you can participate in. You get to be involved in the things you care about and make new friends. It’s a win-win! To start, we would suggest searching for these groups on Facebook or other social media platforms and looking for ways to get involved.
Just because you spend the greater part of your day in a truck, doesn’t mean you can’t create and enjoy meaningful relationships. Don’t let being on the move stop you from being social. Try out these four tips and you might be surprised at how easy it is to be social, even when out on the road.
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