Until 2020, truck freight volume increased significantly, with trucks moving 11.84 billion tons in 2019. We all know that the pandemic turned things upside down, but now freight demand is on the rise again — with trucks moving about 72.5 percent of it.
An increase in demand means we’ll need more diesel technicians and mechanics to inspect, maintain, and repair diesel engines.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, these diesel tech and mechanics jobs are expected to grow by eight percent from 2020 to 2030, which is a pretty average rate. But many of the open jobs happen because old technicians are retiring or switching careers.
At the same time, not enough young workers are entering this field, leading companies with a shortage of qualified diesel techs and mechanics. But that’s not an invitation to lose hope.
Smart recruiting methods will have you seeking out and attracting the best-fitting technicians to help maintain your fleet.
1. Multi-Carrier Ads and Job Postings
Third-party jobs sites can help you find new hires, but you shouldn’t lean on them too much. That’s because your competitors are also posting on these sites, and you can easily get lost in the sea of opportunities.
You want to make sure that:
- Your job postings are crafted for your target applicants,
- You’re bringing more applicants directly to your website, and
- You’re only using multi-carrier leads as a supplement to other methods.
First and foremost, you want to build a funnel of quality direct leads. That means putting energy into branding tactics in your website, social media, and display ads and campaigns. Bring your target applicants directly to you.
2. Get Your Branding on Point
Most companies get job applications from cold leads — people applying on third-party websites. While you can bring in more volume this way, it doesn’t guarantee quality.
The best way to find quality diesel technicians, drivers, and other hires is through direct leads, as we touched on above. And one of the best ways to get more direct leads is with solid branding.
Set yourself apart and show potential applicants why they should join your team by working on your brand. That includes your website, ad copy, ad design, and more.
3. Geotargeting
Geotargeting delivers ads to users based on their locations, which can help target specific people based on their behavior and areas they frequent. You can use this tool to reach diesel techs and mechanics once you have researched their behavior.
For example, AMG Driver Recruitment uses geotargeting in truck stop locations with a high concentration of CDL drivers. Drivers get targeted ads on their mobile devices, and the targeting can follow them for 30-60 minutes after.
4. Search Engine Marketing (SEM)
It’s also very important that you develop and optimize your marketing campaigns. Working with a recruitment and marketing company can help you with organic and paid SEO to show up more frequently in Google searches for your opportunity.
5. Invest in Your Technicians
Lastly, keep in mind that current job seekers, including diesel techs, are looking for more.
Working conditions for technicians, especially at the beginning, can be harsh. Plus, younger techs might be ideal for your team while still needing room to grow. Your company will be extra attractive to job seekers when they know you’re willing to invest in their career paths.
Do you offer extra training? Continuing education options? What about PTO and benefits? These are all factors to keep competitive, and you’ll want to lean into company strengths you can bring to the table.
These are just a few ways to improve your recruiting methods. To get customized help with recruitment methods for your fleet, contact AMG Driver Recruitment today!