High Positions: Anna de Guia - PACCAR
In our interview series ‘High Positions’ we ask leaders who shape the business to give us their honest, unfiltered opinion about the state of the industry.
This time, Aleksandra McMiller of 1Truck America, talked to Anna de Guia – Used Truck Sales at PACCAR about her journey in the trucking industry.
Aleksandra McMiller:
What inspired you to pursue a career in the trucking industry, and what has your journey been like thus far?
Anna de Guia:
I am fascinated with all kinds of motor vehicles (cars, heavy equipment’s, and trucks) I enjoy attending motor shows. So why not do something that you are passionate about, that’s how I ended up working in trucking industry. My journey is not that easy because of equality and discrimination towards women. But I met people who encourage me and helped me fall in love with trucks. You must prove your worth and value, afterwards people will respect you.
Aleksandra McMiller:
What unique perspectives or contributions do you believe women bring to the field of trucking?
Anna de Guia:
Women provide better customer service to the customers, very flexible, easier to train and willing to learn, doing great job on processing paper works, provide fresh and unique perspective in the trucking industry. We are known for being patient and understanding (motherly instinct), good communicators, better at multi-tasking, organized and could focus for long periods of time.
Aleksandra McMiller:
Can you share any notable challenges you’ve faced as a woman in the trucking industry and how you’ve overcome them?
Anna de Guia:
I have number one rule ever since I started working, not to date or go out with a customer or colleague, so I must be firm with that. And I’m not a very technical person, especially when it comes to diagnosing if there’s something wrong with the truck so It’s continuous learning for me.
Aleksandra McMiller:
Can you describe a particularly memorable or impactful experience you’ve had while working in the trucking industry?
Anna de Guia:
I remember one of the customers who hardly spoke English, it seemed like he was hopping from one dealership to another, trying to purchase a truck, I have to spend hours helping him using google translate, he purchased a truck, the following day he came back with his friends, and they bought trucks too, he and his group of friends already bought 20 trucks in total. Same with another guy who just migrated in the country, I saw how he started, and he was so grateful for my help, he referred more than 60 customers. Listening and understanding people, learning, and helping them, putting a smile in their faces, and telling you how much they appreciate your help and make their life a little easier.
Aleksandra McMiller:
How important do you feel mentorship and support networks are for women entering or working in the trucking field?
Anna de Guia:
It’s very important to have a mentor who will guide you to the right path and support network who will encourage, help, and celebrate with you.
Anna de Guia – Used Truck Sales PACCAR
Anna de Guia has been in the automotive industry for over 26 years, starting as a Truck Professional at Isuzu Philippines.
In January of 2021 she started her position at Used Trucks Sales PACCAR. She is Responsible for the day-to-day operations of the PACCAR Financial Used Truck location and the re-marketing of PACCAR equipment, assisting in the development and implementation of the company’s used equipment sales plan and supporting policies and procedures; She also works with the dealerships, customers and area offices, coordinating inspections and appraisals.
1Truck America, November 20th 2023
