How to make a good impression at your next trucking job interview

So, you’re looking for a new trucking job? Sounds exciting!

If you’ve spent more than a decade behind the wheel of a semi, it’s perfectly natural to feel confident, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare in advance. Interview skills are just like muscles. If you don’t work to maintain them, you’ll lose them –– and that’s the last thing you want. To assist your preparation, we’ve drafted a list of four recommendations that will help you make a good first impression. Keep reading to learn more.

1) Dress like a professional. You don’t have to wear a three-piece suit or even a tie for that matter, but it’s important you arrive at the interview looking professional. Some job postings list a dress code in the description, but if yours doesn’t, reach out to the company in advance and ask what type of attire they expect. When in doubt, select a nice button-up shirt (or blouse) that has a collar. Complement your shirt with a pair of dress slacks or a nice skirt, preferably one that’s knee-length or longer. Take time to wash and iron your outfit in advance. It’s the little things (like wearing wrinkle-free clothing) that make all the difference.

2) Prepare an elevator pitch. By “elevator pitch,” we mean coming up with a brief summary that describes your education, work experience and professional skillset. For example, If you’re applying for a reefer truck driver position, you want to highlight your relevant experience. If you’ve transported frozen or refrigerated goods for a grocery chain in the past, let your interviewer know. Make sure to bring up any skills or expertise you have in this area, such as handling large or oversized loads, traversing mountain passes, using snow tires, etc.

3) Have all the necessary paperwork. If you’re applying for a commercial truck driving position, you’re required by law to have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). In order to do that, you must undergo a Department of Transportation physical at least once every two years. If you have an underlying medical condition like high blood pressure, heart disease or obstructive sleep apnea, more frequent physicals might be necessary. Make sure your CDL is up-to-date. If it’s time to renew, do so before applying for any positions.

4) Ask questions. An interview isn’t a one-way street. If you want to stand out as a candidate, it’s important to contribute to the conversation. One of the easiest ways to do that is by asking questions. When you inquire about certain aspects of the job, it shows you’re interested and engaged.

We hope you find these job interview tips helpful. If you’re on the market for your next truck driving job, please fill out an online application today!