Before COVID-19, our orientation classes consisted of a 3- to 4-day immersion into the Averitt culture at our corporate campus in Cookeville, TN. With the sudden shift in the world due to the pandemic, we quickly adapted our on-boarding process to comply with social distancing guidelines to minimize exposure yet still accomplish the much-needed tasks that orientation provides.
We truly hope that we can return to our normal on-site orientation experience in the future, but in the meantime, we’re excited to offer a virtual orientation experience. Virtual orientation allows our new associates to experience our culture and complete the “classroom” portions of orientation using a phone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer. The hands-on portion of orientation training is completed at the local service center.
What to expect during your virtual orientation week:
Orientation is your first step toward a rewarding career with endless opportunities! When you join the Averitt team, your selection coordinator will explain virtual orientation in detail. Below is a quick preview of what to expect:
- You will be assigned an onboarding specialist who will be in constant contact with you to ensure your paperwork, documents and training are completed prior to your first day on the job.
- You will be sent a package containing uniforms (5 shirts, 5 pants, 1 jacket, and 1 hat), benefits information and paperwork, and all position-specific documents. Regional and dedicated drivers will receive the package at their home address. All other positions will pick up the package at their service center.
- You will receive an email outlining a customized virtual orientation experience that is tailored just for you and the position you are hired for. It will include:
- Links to videos and computer-based training (CBT) modules
- Specialized link for required forms and documents. Documents to have on hand when completing the forms include:
- Two forms of identification (a complete list of acceptable forms is in your orientation packet)
- A voided check or something from your bank showing your bank account number to set up direct deposit
- Page 1 of your 1040 from the previous year’s federal income tax return. This will show a spouse or any dependents who need to be added to insurance
- Marriage certificate (if married in the current year)
- Social Security numbers and dates of birth of any dependents for insurance purposes
- Birth certificates for children not claimed on taxes (for insurance purposes)
- Road tests, DOT physicals, drug screen and badge photos take place at one of our service centers. Most likely the closest one to your home address.
- Note: The road test administrator will observe from a distance and not get into the cab. Driver will be expected to conduct all the normal parts of a road test minus going onto the public highway.
- In addition to your onboarding specialist, you also gain an entire Driver Services Team to assist you whenever needed starting on day one.
Dress Code:
Though virtual orientation can be completed in the comfort of your own home (and even in your pajamas if you choose!), image is extremely important to us. When it’s time to for your first day of work, we ask that you adhere to the following:
- Attire
- Drivers – wear your uniform that was sent to you
- Non-Drivers – wear business professional attire (e.g., dress pants, dress shirt and tie, khakis, blouses or dresses)
- Black shoes
- Dress shoes or work boots are best
- Cowboy boots and flip-flops are strictly prohibited
- Tattoos should be covered or inconspicuous. Tattoos that are offensive and/or disturbing are prohibited.
- If you require long-sleeve shirts to cover tattoos, these items will need to be ordered. This applies for orientation as well; please be prepared and bring a long-sleeve shirt with you.
- Hair must be a naturally occurring color (no green, purple, etc.)
- Hats or clothing with another company’s logo are not permitted
Men – Hair must be cut above the collar. Neatly trimmed beards, goatees and mustaches are permitted, maximum of 1/2 inch. No piercings.
Women – Hair must be neatly trimmed or pulled back. Earrings are permitted; however, hoops and dangling earrings may not be worn while handling freight. Excessive jewelry is not permitted.
Welcome to the team! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your onboarding specialist, selection coordinator or service center director.
