by Angela Eliacostas, on Aug 6, 2019 9:00:00 PM
Ask Angela: How do I combat the negative stereotypes?
I deal with many surprised reactions when I meet with rooms full of men to pitch my 3PL business. They typically don’t expect to see a woman professionally dressed, in heels, ready to negotiate logistics contracts.
The same holds true for women in trucking. Women drivers may have an even more difficult time when it comes to dealing with the puzzled reaction when they tell someone they drive for a living.
Trucker stereotypes are abundant. Some support the statistics of the trucking industry. Many are outdated and some are just plain untrue – male, white, old, overweight, bald, not particularly nice, wearing plaid with “trucker hats,” overworked and cranky, wild and reckless.
When women ask me how to combat the negative stereotypes, I recommend just be yourself. The best thing you can do is have pride in the job. Share the stories of seeing this amazing country. And don’t be afraid to talk about the sacrifices you make to do a job that benefits everyone.
Your long hours, days away, and driving skills show the admirable characteristics that people should associate with people in trucking industry: self-motivation, reliability, honesty, courtesy, patience, problem solving, and impeccable stress management skills. All these qualities are what people should think when you tell them that you are a driver.
Angela
About Angela
Angela Eliacostas, President and Founder of AGT Global Logistics. Angela is the 2018 Freightliner and WIT Influential Woman of the Year. She has more than 25 years of experience in the transportation industry. Angela is a leader in expediting shipments and serves as a liaison between carriers and companies. Her company AGT Global Logistics specializes in the energy and utilities sector.
The annual "Influential Woman in Trucking" Award provides recognition to a woman who provides leadership, creates change, and inspires others in the transportation industry. Because these industry trailblazers have years of experience and wisdom, WIT created the column, “Ask the Influential Woman in Trucking.” Therefore, the 2018 recipient, Angela Eliacostas, President and Founder of AGT Global Logistics, will be providing answers and advice to popular questions often asked by WIT members.
