Leadership in Fleet: Building Success Through Tough Conversations

Leadership in fleet management extends far beyond overseeing vehicles and logistics. It’s about leading people, fostering intentional culture, and creating an environment where teams can thrive. Josh Turley, CEO of RTA Fleet Management Software, shared a powerful session at Connect 2024 on how to navigate uncomfortable conversations—one of the most challenging yet impactful aspects of leadership.

Here, we’ll unpack key lessons from Josh’s insights to help fleet managers elevate their leadership skills, tackle difficult conversations with confidence, and drive success within their teams.

Watch Josh's full keynote address here.

Why Tough Conversations Matter

One of the standout points Josh makes is that avoiding uncomfortable conversations can hold your team back. Leaders often hesitate to address issues out of fear of hurting someone’s feelings or creating conflict. However, as Josh points out, "It’s hard to teach what was never modeled for you."

Many fleet managers weren’t trained on how to handle these situations, leading to a cycle of avoidance. But avoiding problems only allows them to fester, ultimately harming team performance and culture. Leaders must lean into discomfort and view these conversations as opportunities to guide their teams toward growth and success.

The Difference Between Hurt and Harm

Josh emphasizes a crucial distinction:

• Hurt refers to temporary discomfort caused by addressing behaviors that need improvement.
• Harm involves attacking someone’s identity, creating lasting damage.

As leaders, your goal is to use constructive feedback—what Josh calls the "scalpel of leadership"—to help your team members grow without crossing the line into harm. "It’s okay to hurt someone if you have their best interest at heart," Josh explains.

Key Principles of Leadership in Fleet Management

To lead effectively, especially in challenging moments, Josh shares actionable principles that every fleet manager can adopt:

1. Clarity is Kindness

"To be unclear is to be unkind." Uncertainty breeds confusion and mistrust. Whether you’re setting expectations or addressing issues, be clear and specific in your communication. This clarity ensures team members understand their roles and can meet expectations confidently.

2. Focus on the Problem, Not the Person

When addressing an issue, focus on observable behaviors rather than personal attributes. For example, "Your reports have been late," is far more constructive than, "You’re unreliable."

3. Preparation Equals Dignity

"You don’t rise to the occasion; you fall to the level of your preparation." Josh stresses the importance of preparing for tough conversations. Write down key points, rehearse your delivery, and approach the discussion with a clear plan. This preparation ensures you handle the situation with dignity and fairness.

A Framework for Difficult Conversations

Josh shares a practical five-step framework to navigate uncomfortable conversations:

1. Set the Tone: Begin by establishing the intensity of the conversation (e.g., casual, uncomfortable, or serious) and addressing any immediate concerns (e.g., "No one is losing their job today").
2. Identify the Issue: Clearly state the problem and its impact on the team or organization.
3. Exchange Perspectives: Listen actively to understand the team member’s viewpoint and ensure they feel heard.
4. Define Next Steps: Collaboratively establish a plan for improvement, including specific actions and timelines.
5. Follow Through: Check in regularly to assess progress and provide support as needed.

Creating a Culture of Accountability

One of the most powerful leadership insights Josh shares is: "It’s not about what you preach; it’s about what you tolerate." By addressing issues as they arise, fleet managers set a standard for accountability. Ignoring problems, on the other hand, sends the message that subpar performance or behavior is acceptable.

Josh highlights the importance of modeling transparency and accountability at all levels of the organization. For instance, bringing issues to the executive team and holding one another accountable fosters a culture where everyone is aligned on expectations and outcomes.

The Role of Radical Candor

At RTA, Josh emphasizes "speaking the kind truth." This approach balances honesty with empathy, ensuring feedback is both direct and constructive. Avoiding tough conversations might seem like kindness, but it’s ultimately selfish. True kindness lies in addressing issues for the benefit of the individual and the team.

Why Leadership Matters in Fleet Management

Fleet management isn’t just about vehicles—it’s about people. As Josh notes, "Servant leaders have uncomfortable conversations." By embracing this mindset, fleet managers can:

• Build stronger, more cohesive teams.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Drive long-term success for their organizations.

Takeaways for Fleet Managers

Effective leadership in fleet management requires courage, preparation, and a willingness to grow alongside your team. Whether it’s addressing performance issues or setting a vision for the future, the principles Josh shares can help fleet managers navigate the challenges of leadership with confidence and integrity.

By mastering the art of uncomfortable conversations, you can create a culture where team members feel supported, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential—ensuring your fleet’s success for years to come.

Discover More:

For more insights and tools to elevate your leadership, check out these resources:

• The Fleet Success Playbook
• The Motive by Patrick Lencioni
• Radical Candor by Kim Scott
• EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey

Ready to take your fleet management to the next level? Explore RTA Fleet Management Software or connect with our consulting team at Fleet Consulting.