Do Introverts Make Good HGV Drivers?

When we get asked about becoming a HGV driver, one of the things we often get asked is ‘would it be a good career for me?’ And generally we say that if you’re over 18 and have a clean drivers licence, then of course it would be a good option. But sometimes we get asked about personality types, and specifically how well an introvert would be suited to it as a career option. And then, we say it would be a great option! Introverts are often drawn to a life on the road, and today we’re going to explain why.

What is an Introvert?

To start off, lets’ look at what an introvert is. While the dictionary just describes them a ‘shy, reticent people’, the reality is they are simply people who prefer to be on their own, or in a small group. In other words, they’re the opposite of an extrovert. Extroverts will often seek out interaction and conversation – and it’s easy to spot them in a crowded room. They refuel by being around other people, and are usually referred to as ‘the life and soul of the party’. But introverts? They are often quiet, reserved and thoughtful people, who seek out solitude and peace. Spending a lot of time with other people, especially crowds, can leave an introvert feeling exhausted and drained. They need alone time to be able to recharge, while extroverts refuel by spending time with other people. 

Some signs you might be an introvert include:

• You prefer time to yourself
• You’re drained by social interactions
• You prefer working alone
• You have a close circle of friends (and like it that way)
• You’re introspective and curious
• You’re accused of ‘zoning out’ a lot
• You prefer writing over talking
• You ‘feel’ more

Of course, introversion is a spectrum, so not all of these might apply to you. But if you recognise a few things within that list, you’re probably an introvert in some way. And if you’re not sure, a few famous introverts that might surprise you include Bill Gates, Albert Einstein, Eleanor Roosevelt, Steven Spielberg, Mark Zuckerberg and Michael Jordan.

Finding Work as an Introvert

When it comes to finding work, introverts can often struggle with some of the more ‘mainstream’ options. They find working in crowded offices exhausting, and people-facing environments like retail overwhelming. So they are much more likely to be attracted to smaller businesses, or companies who are open to flexible working or working from home. This allows them to limit their time spent in busy environments and unlock their best work. You’ll find a lot of introverts in fields like IT analysis, software engineering, writers, librarians and so on. Introverts often do their best work when left to their own devices, and since they tend to be very self-motivated, that works out well for employers that are able to take a step back.

How Does That fit With HGV Driving? 

For the most part, being a HGV driver pairs wonderfully with being an introvert. If you think about it, 85% of their time is spent on the road and in solitude. A long-haul HGV driver can sometimes be on the road for days or even weeks, sometimes without speaking to a single soul between leaving and arriving at their destination. This is something that more extroverted personality types often struggle with – which is why you’ll find the profession full of introverts.

So, is being a HGV driver a good career choice for an introvert? On the whole, we would have to say yes. While the solitude and long hours might not be right for some, for an introvert they are often considered a perk. Introverts enjoy spending time on their own, having their own media (like books or music) to recharge, and get to see a lot of the countryside at the same time. So if you’re an introvert looking for work, we thoroughly recommend looking into HGV driving. And if you would like to know more, just get in touch with us today, and we would be happy to answer your questions.