Not Just Trucks, But People: An Intern’s Journey into the Industry

When I first started in trucking and logistics over seven years ago, I quickly realized just how powerful and dynamic this industry truly is. Today, I get the unique joy of watching it all through fresh eyes, those of my intern. I asked her to share some of her first impressions, and as someone who’s admittedly biased (because I think this industry is nothing short of incredible), I couldn’t be more excited. Even more meaningful? The chance to introduce a young female professional to the powerhouse world of trucking, a space where her perspective, curiosity, and voice matter greatly.

During my internship, we’ve had content shoots to capture video, photos, and drone footage of several terminals. I was nervous at first to go on site, as I had never done a commercial shoot and wasn’t very familiar with what a terminal looked like. I was immediately taken aback by how warm and friendly everyone was at the terminals. I had expected a certain amount of stiffness and formality, especially coming to an office with a camera in hand. However, the drivers were very talkative and kind. Everyone I met during my content shoots were incredibly friendly. I’ve learned that in the trucking industry, genuine connections and kindness are valued much more than performative formality. 

I had never been in a semi-truck before, and was eager to see what the inside of one actually looked like. It was much more roomy and comfortable than I had expected! So much care must have been put in to make the space as useful and convenient for the drivers. Seeing the space in person reminded me just how much of a Driver’s life was spent on the road. This vehicle had to be a second home. It gave me a new appreciation for all the time spent on the road by drivers to keep our shelves stocked and our supply chains running. It also made me realize just how much of a Driver’s wellbeing depends on the company they drive for and how well they are treated.  

During my internship at Be Social, I have learned so much about marketing for trucking companies. It would be impossible to truly sum it up in one post. However, I’ll do my best to condense it into a few points. Drivers seem to value a company's reputation for taking care of their drivers more than in most industries. Driver appreciation posts are very important. Posts highlighting testimonials and emphasizing the care a company shows for their drivers tend to do well! If a driver sees a company really cares for their workers, they are more eager to apply. I have also learned a great amount about different terms and the trucking industry as a whole. Before coming to Be Social, I didn’t even know there was different types of trucks, let alone what a CDL-A license was or what the term "Running Area” referred to. It’s pretty hard to market something you know nothing about! It’s been a process for sure, but my internship has given me so much knowledge about how the trucking industry works. It’s been truly eye-opening, and has given me a deep appreciation for what truckers, dispatchers, and everyone else in the industry does. Lastly, I have learned that marketing is a very creative field. While we use numbers and statistics to measure growth and make content plans, it is not just math and logic. These stats are based on the graphics and videos that allow people to see what a company and brand is really like. Social media marketing is so important to branding a company and making a good impression. Design, art, and even experimentation definitely have their place in marketing.My experience here has been a great one, and I can’t wait to see what comes next for Be Social and trucking!

Watching my intern step into trucking for the first time has reminded me why I fell in love with this industry over seven years ago. Through her eyes, I’ve seen the warmth of our drivers, the pride in their work, and the creativity it takes to tell their stories well. Introducing a young woman to this powerhouse industry has been both rewarding and inspiring, and it reaffirms my belief that the future of trucking is bright when we continue to welcome fresh perspectives. At Be Social, I’m proud to play even a small part in helping the next generation see just how incredible this industry truly is.