At Fuel Express, we know how difficult managing a fleet can be – no matter how big or in what industry. We’ve helped fleets of all kinds take control of their management skills and create a highly successful fleet. Here are some tips we recommend remembering:
1. Don’t Overwork Yourself
While you may have a lot to do, overworking yourself is never good for you or your company. If you’re overworked, you’ll likely not get enough sleep and will be more prone to irritability and frustration. All of these things make it much harder to focus and get things done, so if you feel like you’re not getting enough rest or time off, take it. It will help you in the long run.
3. Set Clear Goals
When it comes to goals, a to-do list just isn’t enough. Instead, think about more long-term ambitions (say, weekly or monthly) and figure out exactly what you need to do to achieve them. Determine what you need, the steps you need to take, who you need to help you, your budget, and more. Then, take the time to check off each element in order to reach your goal.
3. Communicate with Your Employees
Many managers pay too much attention to their business and not enough attention to their employees. Management is about building a relationship with those who help your business succeed, so don’t overlook them. Hold regular company meetings, provide feedback, listen to problems or issues, give praise when it’s due, and set a good example for your employees. It will pay off.
4. Be Organized
There’s nothing worse than a successful company with organizational problems. The less organized you are, the harder your job will be, so take the time to keep things organized. File time-sensitive documents accordingly. Keep maintenance records handy for all vehicles. Make sure you have everything you need for your taxes, and more. Luckily, our fleet fuel cards track each driver’s time, location, and transaction as well as their driving behavior and their vehicle’s health, all in one place.
5. Lead by Example
As we mentioned in #3, set a good example for your employees. In other words, don’t do anything you wouldn’t want them to do. They look to you for guidance and since you’re the one who sets the goals and enforces the rules, your example should be one that’s respectable and valuable. And if there’s a promise you can’t make, don’t make it. You don’t want to lose the trust your employees have built.
