Between overseeing the shop, parts room, and drivers, managing a fleet operation requires a diverse skill set to perform the job successfully. Take a look at some of the traits fleet managers should possess to effectively run a fleet operation.
Ability to Multi-Task: Fleet managers are often the middleman between the shop and upper management. This means he or she must juggle the day-to-day tasks to get vehicles repaired and back on the roadways, while also helping the operation achieve long-term goals.
Flexibility: The daily needs at the operation may change often, and a fleet manager needs to adjust accordingly. He or she must address issues that pop up that need to be resolved as soon as possible. The fleet manager must also stay abreast of the emergence of new technology and devices, as well as new types of vehicles – like EVs.
Good Management Skills: Fleet managers must lead a diverse team with varying skill sets. To succeed in this role, a person must be able to oversee a large group of people with different personalities and needs. He or she should also be able to help develop employees’ skills and encourage them to stay at the operation to improve employee-retention.
Excellent Communicator: Managers must effectively convey expectations to their staff. This can include relaying information from the company’s leadership team to his or her employees, as well as presenting fleet operation updates and presentations to upper management.
Goal-setter: To keep the fleet operation on-task and on-pace to help the company achieve its overall objectives, the fleet manager must be able to set goals for the fleet operation. This keeps the manager on-task, as well as motivates the staff to work towards a common goal.
Good Leader: A fleet manager should set an example for his or her entire staff on how to be a good leader. This can include embodying the company’s mission and values. Setting the tone with his or her leadership skills can encourage other employees to step up as leaders as well.
Good Listener: A good manager needs to listen to his or her employees and accept feedback. This benefits the company as it integrates employees’ ideas into the operation, and it builds credibility and loyalty between the manager and his or her staff.
Excellent Organizational Skills: A fleet manager needs to keep his staff on-task and be able to deal with multiple issues at once. This requires being organized and keeping information and reports easily accessible. Proper organizational skills let fleet managers multi-task as needed.
Ability to Work with Upper Management: While the fleet manager oversees the fleet staff, he or she also needs to work with the company’s leadership team. This requires the manager to be able to clearly communicate the fleet operation’s needs and achievements.
Knowledge of Industry Trends: It’s important for the fleet manager to be aware of what’s going on in the fleet industry. From the emergence of electronic vehicles to recent fuel prices, keeping updated on the news and trends will let him or her make appropriate plans and goals for the fleet operation.