Transitioning to HR in Transport: What Should My Role Look Like?

Dear All, good morning! Recently, I have joined a transport company. Previously, I was working in a manufacturing company for the last 10 years. I just need your guidance on, 'What should be the role of an HR Manager in a Transport Company?'

Whether working in a manufacturing company or in services, the service function of HR remains the same. It does not change. Nevertheless, the major differentiator between manufacturing and services is the feedback on customer satisfaction. In the former, it is a little later, whereas in the latter, it is immediate. Therefore, you may focus on the causes of customer dissatisfaction and find out how you can address it by improving recruitment or training interventions.

In the transport sector, drivers are always at the center stage. They are the ones who make or break the company. Therefore, focus on their career development. Identify who has the potential to become a manager and develop a career plan for them.

All the best!

Dinesh Divekar

Dear Madhuri.jee,

Namaste! The basic principles of General Management are the same; however, the specific principles may vary depending on the nature of services in the industry.

The Role of HR in Different Industries

In the Manufacturing Industry, the quality of goods may be the utmost factor, whereas in the Transport Industry, the quantity of time may be the utmost factor. Therefore, the primary role of an HR Manager in the Transport Industry would be time management, which must be of the highest quality.

Importance of a Punctual Task Force

First and foremost, it is crucial to identify a punctual task force—those who value and respect time. These individuals should be leveraged to motivate all others to recognize the importance of their individual roles in succeeding in the race against time.

Not only are Transport Managers crucial in this endeavor, but also those who can maintain the transport machinery in good condition to prevent any mishaps that could result in significant time wastage.

Balancing Timeliness and Quality

HR in the Transport sector should understand that timely results are essential, but maintaining the quality of goods being transported should never be compromised in order to meet deadlines.

Managing Customer Commitments

Managing commitments to customers is also a significant aspect of this industry. Therefore, it is the responsibility of HR Managers in the Transport Industry to assign this task only to capable, understanding, mature, and polite staff who can efficiently handle orders and customers.

It is vital that these staff members excel in dealing with customers with politeness and utmost care to prevent any crisis situations from arising.

Ultimately, Transport HR Managers must recognize that customers are the main driving force behind the smooth operation of the Transport Industry.