Month: September 2024

Embracing positivity is more than just putting on a happy face or being agreeable. It’s a mental and behavioral pattern that always seeks out opportunities and solutions, one that doesn’t dwell on the negative. Those who are most successful in their careers are optimistic about their prospects because they have a can-do attitude. They have opened themselves up to solving any problem that comes their way.

Studies have shown that positivity leads to greater happiness and performance in the workplace. When you employ a positive outlook, others around you are more likely to do the same, creating a positive environment and earning the trust of your coworkers. It increases productivity by opening your mind and allowing you to think logically, improving decision making and problem solving. Negative emotions create distractions that drain your energy and keep you from performing at your best. You are more open to learn from others and gain new skills and take advantage of new opportunities. Customers are also more likely to want to work with those who stay positive, which will lead to long-term working relationships.

Here are some ways to implement a positive mindset:

• Instead of complaining about problems when they arise, offer possible solutions. When you think positively, challenges and obstacles become opportunities for improvement. You build resilience and are more adaptable to change, making you stronger and more capable of growth. A positive mindset also helps you manage feedback and conflict by being open to changes and constructive criticism.
• Use introspection to analyze your mindset and thought patterns. If you find yourself in a pattern of negative thinking, challenge those negative thoughts and try to reframe them by looking at it from a different point of view.
• Focus on the big picture. If you find yourself getting worked up about a problem, ask yourself if it will matter in the long run. If the answer is no, don’t let it bother you.
• Make changes to things that are in your control. If you can solve a problem, do it. If it’s beyond your scope, ask a colleague or manager for their input.
• Consider others’ opinions and show appreciation for the contributions of others. Always be willing to listen to and respect others’ viewpoints.

Conversely, a negative mindset is focused on problems rather than solutions. Those with negative attitudes frequently complain, become defensive, and have a tendency to blame others. These behaviors are toxic and destructive to teams.

Positivity is a value at Marvin Keller. It’s part of our culture and is integral to our continued success.

If you’re like most people, the idea of an evaluation from a supervisor isn’t the most appealing activity. No one is thrilled to be told what they’re doing wrong, but if you don’t know, how will you ever improve? Those who strive for success and professionalism in their careers are open to criticism. When you do everything you can to be a reliable and high-performing employee, it follows that you believe you’re doing everything the best way possible. But sometimes it’s easy to be blind to our own
shortcomings. That’s why it’s necessary for our managers to evaluate our performance and provide constructive criticism.

When receiving criticism, it’s important to be aware of the levels of normal human reaction. On the most basic level is instinct, a gut reaction that takes no effort on our part. Emotion is a step above that, with rational thought and reason residing at the highest level. Always stop your first reaction and stay calm; avoid emotional reactions. Maintain open body posture and try to avoid negative facial expressions. Your first instinct might be to get upset, but if you remember that the whole purpose of constructive criticism is to benefit you and help you improve, it will help you stay calm. None of us are perfect and there is always room for improvement.

Before you react to criticism, always let the reviewing party finish their complete thought without interruption. That will give you time to think and not act impulsively or emotionally; emotions distort the truth and cloud our judgment. Ask for clarifying questions and, if needed, help finding solutions to the issues.

Don’t take constructive criticism personally. Avoid resentment, defensiveness, or retaliation. There are ways to tell if criticism is constructive or destructive.

• Who is providing the criticism? Is it a coworker or a supervisor?
• Is the criticism emotional or sincere? Just like it’s best to avoid emotional responses to criticism, it’s important that the reviewer also avoids personal attacks or negative emotions
• Was the criticism in a private one-on-one setting or in front of a group?
  

It’s ok to get a second opinion. Others are not necessarily correct. If you sincerely believe you have been unduly criticized, ask someone else. Just make sure you stop and reflect on the issue before reacting.

Learning and self-improvement are lifelong endeavors. Everyone wants employees in an organization to perform at the highest level they can. MK is committed to helping everyone become top performers.

Celebrating the End of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week with a Bang! We’re thrilled to announce another giveaway! Watch the video to find out who won the brand-new truck seat, generously donated by Truck Centers.

Thank you and stay safe! 

Backing up a tractor-trailer is one of the most challenging tasks professional drivers face. It demands precision, patience, and a keen sense of awareness. Drivers must navigate tight spaces, avoid potential hazards, and adapt to varying conditions, which can quickly become overwhelming when backing a 53-foot trailer into a dock. To refine your backing techniques and make the process smoother, consider these valuable tips from driver trainer Ryan:

Techniques to include in your backing routine:

1. G.O.A.L – Get out and look.
2. Hazards – Always turn on your flashers as it warn others around you that you are going to be performing a backing maneuver.
3. Minimize distractions – Turn off the radio and any other distractions.
4. Open Your Windows – you need to be able to hear what’s going on around you.
5. Back from Your Sight Side – Whenever possible back from your sight side. Back in so you can see down the left side of your vehicle.

Tips & Tricks:

1. Don’t Chase the Trailer – When backing you don’t want to oversteer. If you are constantly steering hard left and right to keep control of the trailer you are oversteering.
2. Patience – Don’t let yourself get flustered. It takes time to get skilled at backing.
3. Learn from Others – When you’re sitting in a dock, pay attention to how other drivers set themselves up and back in. Every driver has their own way of doing things. You can learn a lot from watching others.
4. Use Tire Tracks as a Guide: If you are backing into a space that lots of other trucks have been in and out of, you can use their tire tracks as a guide to show you where your tires should be as you back.
5. Practice Regularly – Whenever you get a chance to practice, take advantage of the opportunity.

As professional truck drivers, we must develop a thorough backing routine and continually practice in different conditions. Applying this approach and the tips listed above will not only enhance your precision and control but also ensure safety and operational efficiency. It will also help better prepare you for diverse backing scenarios on the road. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility, and every maneuver counts. Stay vigilant and never hesitate to seek assistance when needed.