The Top 5 Soft Skills Employers Look for in LGV Drivers

Career progression is an important aspect of any role and in the LGV driving industry it can be often overlooked.

With 20 years’ experience in the industry, our logistics team are well aware of this problem, and it can frustrate us when there’s a lack of future vision from both candidates and employers.

There truly is career progression within the industry, we see it every day! But like any job, it the best individuals, with the best mindset, that will be successful.

So now you know it’s more than possible to progress in the industry, you may be wondering what can help you stand out and demonstrate your potential. Our logistics team here at Streamline are consistently hearing the same answer, transferrable soft skills.

Soft skills are essential for career progression in the LGV industry. While technical skills and qualifications are important, it is the soft skills that set drivers apart and open doors to new opportunities.

We’ve identified 5 as the key skills that we know employers in the industry are constantly looking for in their LGV drivers. We actively seek candidates who possess these skills and help them develop and enhance these abilities through training and support.

Communication Skills

Effective communication is a crucial soft skill for LGV drivers. As drivers often need to coordinate with logistics teams, clients, and other drivers, being able to communicate clearly and efficiently is essential for smooth operations. Strong communication skills enable drivers to convey important information, understand instructions, and build positive relationships with colleagues and clients.

The logistics industry needs strong communication skills to run smoothly. Drivers who can effectively communicate their needs, concerns, and observations contribute to improved efficiency, reduced errors, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Reliability

Reliability is a key soft skill that plays a vital role in the success of LGV drivers and logistics operations. Employers value drivers who can consistently deliver goods on time, follow schedules, and meet deadlines. Reliable drivers build a reputation for dependability and trustworthiness, which opens doors for career advancement opportunities.

We’re always encouraging our Driving team to help drivers develop a strong sense of responsibility and dependability, ensuring that they can meet the demands and expectations of logistics employers.

Problem-Solving

On the road, drivers often encounter unexpected situations such as traffic congestion, mechanical issues, and delivery challenges. Being able to think critically, analyse problems, and find effective solutions is essential for maintaining smooth operations and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Looking at the bigger picture, effective problem-solving skills contribute to successful operations in any industry. Drivers who can quickly adapt to new situations, make sound decisions, and resolve issues efficiently are highly valued by employers, as this demonstrates the potential to work in a fast-paced role in the future.

Time Management

Time management is a critical skill for LGV drivers.

With delivery schedules, driving regulations, and route planning to consider, drivers must be able to manage their time effectively to ensure timely and efficient deliveries. Proper time management allows drivers to meet deadlines, avoid unnecessary delays, and optimise their productivity.

Our recruiters focus on providing practical tips and guidance to help drivers master time management skills in the context of LGV driving. We understand that efficient time management not only benefits the drivers themselves but also contributes their skillset, boosting their chances of moving through the ranks.    

Stress Management

LGV drivers often face stressful situations on the road, such as heavy traffic, tight deadlines, and difficult weather conditions. It’s important that drivers can recognise when they’re stressed, address how they’re feeling and then learn to manage their emotional workload better.

Drivers who can manage their stress levels are more likely to stay focused, make better decisions, and handle challenging situations with composure.  

Everyone here at Streamline prioritise the mental health and well-being of each individual LGV driver.

We acknowledge the stressors that drivers may encounter on the road and recognise the significant impact they can have on both job performance and overall quality of life. That's why our team not only addresses these stressors but also provide strategies and techniques for effective stress management. We understand that supporting drivers in managing stress is not only essential for their success but also crucial for their mental health and job satisfaction.

The cultivation of these soft skills is pivotal LGV drivers aiming to distinguish themselves in the eyes of employers and recruiters. The attributes we’ve listed above, don’t just elevate drivers' performance on the road but also position them as invaluable assets within the logistics landscape.

By develop these skills, LGV drivers can significantly bolster their chances of not only securing coveted positions but also advancing into higher roles within the industry and ultimately furthering their career.