How to Start an NEMT Business in Michigan: A "Bambi Knows Best" State-by-State Series Part 6: Build and Train Your Fantastic NEMT Team in Michigan Crafting an outstanding NEMT team in Michigan is like assembling a winning sports roster — you need a group that’s dependable, familiar with the local terrain and can navigate everything from Detroit’s bustling highways to the serene stretches of the Upper Peninsula. Here’s how to recruit, train and retain your crew for success in the Great Lakes State:
1 | Discovering Your All-Star Team Local familiarity is a huge asset. You’ll want to bring on drivers and support staff who know the state and its infrastructure inside and out. Look for candidates who are comfortable with both urban driving and rural routes, or consider hiring teams that can manage either or both. Use online job platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn or connect with local colleges and vocational schools to find the right fit. Partnering with Michigan workforce development programs, like Michigan Works!, can help you tap into local talent and job training resources. Hosting career days or participating in job fairs in places like Ann Arbor or Kalamazoo can also help you uncover talented team members!
2 | Training for Success, Michigan-Style Once your team is in place, it’s time to get them trained up. Michigan drivers will face everything from heavy snowfall in winter to traffic jams during the summer festival season, so it’s vital to prepare your crew for these challenges. Your NEMT staff should be trained in safe driving practices, especially for those harsh winters, as well as in exceptional customer service. They need to navigate both the roads and passenger interactions with consideration and care! Understanding the specific needs of your passengers — whether it’s assisting with mobility, managing medical equipment or providing a comforting presence on long trips from the Upper Peninsula to Detroit hospitals — is essential. Training should also emphasize ADA compliance and sensitivity, ensuring compassionate care for every passenger.
3 | Fostering a Positive, Team-Centric Culture Fostering an engaging and uplifting work environment will keep your team motivated to show up each day. Promote camaraderie through team-building events, recognize standout employees and offer fun perks like Michigan sports apparel or tickets to a Tigers game. Invite your employees to help shape the company culture by maintaining open lines of communication through regular meetings and check-ins, ensuring everyone feels valued. A supportive workplace leads to happy employees, which in turn creates satisfied passengers — an essential ingredient for your success!
By prioritizing the development of a strong, well-trained, and motivated team, your NEMT business in Michigan will be poised for success. Ready for the next chapter? Check out Part 7 , where we’ll explore the tech tools that can enhance your NEMT operations across the state. Or head back to our series table of contents for more insights on expanding your business in the Great Lakes State!
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