How do I keep and motivate good drivers

I plan to start by own transport company when I get home. I am currently buying trucks and taking serious steps to make is all happen. I have some friends that told me their horror stories about companies they work for. I have the firm belief that taking care of your people will yield a greater success. I also believe being good to your people will get them to care more and want to do right by you. So, taking that into consideration what all should I do to make sure my drivers are happy and doing their best for me? What should I give them in return?

Oh yea, before any one tells me to have nice equipment, keep in mind I am just getting started. I am trying to get nice stuff that stays running, but it is older and not perfect. And I also know I should pay them fairly and on time. I am looking for details that may not be all that obvious to me.

 

I think I should give a little background on myself. That will help with the answering process.

I know leadership and I am pretty good at inspiring people. However, this is a different leadership role for me. Plus, I have to turn a profit or I will have no drivers to keep any way. I am looking for advice from a driver's point of view. What would keep you loyal to a company or in this case one person? I have met some pre-madonna drivers that feel the world owes them something whether they deserve it or not. I can care less about them. I am talking to the professional who knows they have to give in order to receive. What do you want from your employer?

 

Thanks "Lonesesome". Those are good points.

 

I am in Iraq right now. I served in the military until I was hurt and now I work for the governement in Security and Force Protection. I have a few deals in the works for some trucks I found back home on line. One of my goals was to have my own business when I get home. So I am now putting that plan into motion. Thanks for the link. I will dig around there and see what I come up with. But I think we are looking for different answers. I am going to be small time and unable to provide some of the things that big compaines have. Plus, I plan to stay mostly in the South East. So long hauls my not be very common.

 

Yep, I have been here for almost two years in a row. I hope to be home by my third year if not sooner.