By Kevin Seth, AU, ARM, AAI, AIS, AINS
One of the most effective types of driver coaching is evidence-based coaching that utilizes real-world evidence to coach drivers and provoke meaningful discussions. Telematics is a great tool for providing this evidence. Coaching is much different from micromanaging. A micromanager is often over-involved and creates a negative impact. Telling drivers what to do, even if it’s with good intentions, is not the same as coaching. Coaching is a process to help an individual to improve their own performance and help them to learn.
Getting to know your drivers as people is an important step in the coaching process. Knowing their strengths, weaknesses, and motivations will support your coaching efforts. One way to build your relationship and build a foundation for coaching is to be transparent. Transparency means practicing open and regular communication with drivers. Talk about your own goals and challenges. Having an honest conversation on both sides could encourage drivers to open up and share their ideas and solutions. Follow this up with frequent communication and reviews with drivers.
Some of the key coaching skills that should be used are:
- Listening
- Empathy
- Asking questions
- Have drivers find their own solution
- Focus on solutions
- Providing feedback
- Help set goals
Always end driver coaching sessions on a positive note. Thank the drivers and make sure they know that they are valued by the company and you are always willing to listen to any problems or topics they wish to discuss in the future. Lastly, schedule a time to have a follow up conversation.
