Being a fleet manager entails much more than just ensuring your fleet is up to par – it requires you to be a great communicator, a multitasker, a mechanical expert, an administrator and a negotiator. If a problem arises, it is you who must persevere to find a solution. If a driver has an issue, it is you who delegates the tasks.
For some, embodying all of these characteristics is a challenge. For others, combining all of these skills into one job title is practically impossible. Regardless, there is always room for improvement in the world of management, and by following these 6 easy tips, you’ll find fleet management success is easier than ever before.
- Multitask Master
As we mentioned, multitasking is one of the most important skills in management as a whole, but especially when it comes to overseeing a fleet. Though multitasking typically improves with experience, having the ability to manage different tasks at once is vital when it come to ensuring your drivers, trucks, suppliers, and manufacturers are all satisfied.
- Communication is Key
Without proper communication skills, your time as a fleet manager is likely limited. Through both written and verbal communication, you should be able to deliver your point in a concise, effective manner. With good communication skills, you’ll quickly find yourself climbing the business ladder.
- Strong Leadership
In a management position such as this, having strong leadership skills will make your job much easier: staff should consider you to be a role model, embrace your drive for success, and the team as a whole needs to become passionate about achieving your company’s goal.
- Eye for Innovation
Successful fleet managers are out-of-the-box thinkers who go above and beyond to prepare for the future and conceptualize fresh ideas. As a proponent of change, you use your innovative brain to develop cost-effective ideas, performance initiatives and even new, efficient management methods.
- Keen for Knowledge
To truly succeed in fleet management, you must never become stale in your learning. Attend seminars and conferences, read applicable materials like magazines, books, blogs and other publications, and attain certifications that keep you sharp and up-to-date with the best practices in the business.
- Value the Values
By fully understanding your company’s values, you can be a better leader, teacher and manager. Be sure you know and respect the corporate values of your company by striving to meet the company image rather than just the fleet. By embracing and embodying your company’s goals and values you can act as an interconnection between the company, the organization, the department, and the individuals.
Though the list of successful management skills is extensive, these six skills and traits are guaranteed to help you achieve your goals while overseeing your fleet. FleetServ wants to partner with you on your road to success. You have enough management jobs to take care of – let FleetServ take care of the rest.