Recent research is indicating that diversity can help reduce the current driver shortage. Not only can diverseness cut down on driver shortage, but it also adds a competitive edge in the industry. This article will highlight the impact diversity is making on the trucking industry.

Higher Profits

Companies with greater ethnic variety continually have higher earnings. As a result, these companies are able to recruit the best employees.

• Global Management firm McKinsey & Company research shows companies in the top quartile for both gender and ethnic diversity are 35 percent more likely to have above-average financial returns.
• However, those in the top quarter for only gender diversity are just 15 percent more likely.

More Diversity, More Options

The under-representation of minorities in trucking continues to garner little attention. More focus is placed on women and veterans due to the large numbers in both groups. However, as the number of minorities continue to grow each year, trucking companies should be doing more to attract them.

• Nationwide, the percentage of minorities climbed from 32.9 percent in 2004 to 37.9 percent in 2014.
• Overall, the fastest growing populations are non-white.

The answer to widespread driver shortage just may be reaching out and hiring more minorities.

Better Fleets

There is a program called ‘Best Fleets to Drive For.’ CarriersEdge produces an annual survey and contest that shows which for-hire carriers provide the best workplace experiences. Some of the best fleets have:

• Bilingual staff.
• Ability to accommodate for particular religious beliefs.
• No tolerance for discrimination and harassment.

Diversity is the Answer

By hiring more minorities to work within the trucking industry, companies not only have higher financial returns but a larger candidate pool to choose from. Companies looking to gain a competitive edge on their competition are taking note of this research.

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