How Drivers Stay and Thrive with Erin Crawford, HandledNow

When was the last time someone really listened to you? For Erin Crawford, supporting drivers starts with trust, follow-through, and remembering the little things. In this episode, Chelsea Faulkner talks with Erin, Market Development Manager of HandledNow, about how to put drivers first, not just in words, but in action. From her early days in recruiting to becoming a trusted voice behind the scenes at HandledNow, Erin shares how small gestures, honest conversations, and showing up when it counts can turn into long-term relationships and career growth. You’ll hear how she connects with drivers across the country, builds trust in an industry where it’s often lacking, and why her approach isn’t just good business, it’s personal. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why honesty matters more than a perfect pitch How to make drivers feel seen in a system that often overlooks them What advocacy looks like from someone who actually listens Resources: Erin Crawford on LinkedIn HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Intro (01:18) Starting out in recruiting and growing into a leadership role (03:08) Why relationships and trust matter in trucking (05:08) Giving drivers a second chance and seeing them succeed (06:25) Helping drivers grow beyond the road (06:45) Building trust from the very first call (08:09) Creating memorable touchpoints like newsletters and recognition (10:21) Why honesty matters more than sugarcoating (17:39) The Now Difference and empowering drivers through advocacy