Driving for Work: Mythbusters
52 common misconceptions – and the facts employers and drivers need to know
Myth 40: Driver training is only for bad drivers
This perception actively deters the drivers who would benefit most from advanced training – experienced, confident drivers who believe they have nothing to learn. In reality, advanced driver training is most valuable precisely for drivers who have developed habitual behaviours over years of driving, some of which may be unsafe.
More mature drivers may have passed their test when there was much less traffic on the roads and may benefit significantly from some coaching on defensive driving and how to stay safe in today’s high traffic levels.
Professional development in driving, as in any other skill, benefits practitioners at every level. The most capable drivers tend to be those who actively seek to improve.
Employers who frame advanced training as a remedial measure rather than a professional development opportunity will struggle to engage the experienced drivers who most need a fresh perspective.
Driver takeaway:
The most capable drivers have the most to gain from advanced training because they have more deeply ingrained habits to examine.
Approach any training opportunity with genuine openness, not as a box to tick.
Manager takeaway:
Frame driver training as professional development, not remediation and offer it to experienced drivers as well as newer ones.
Drivers who believe training is only for poor performers will resist it, and they are often the ones who need it most.
