Now, more than ever, getting a great review from your rider is important. These are some tried and true tips for making your rider feel comfortable and happy.
1. Greet your rider warmly by name and confirm the destination. Smile naturally.
2. If you haven't already, angle the rear-view mirror so that you can also see your rider.
3. Consider a Spotify or similar subscription - create playlists that you can switch between depending on the time of day or mood. This can really help a rider who is a little bit stressed or one that wants to have a bit of fun.
4. If they want to chat and you want to chat - go for it. If not, it's not about you, it's about the rider. Sometimes they have other things going on and would be happier riding in silence.
5. If you find yourself getting irritable or short-tempered think HALT - are you hungry, angry, lonely or tired? Take a short break - run around or stretch for a minute. Have a snack. Call your partner or a friend. Clear your head before you get back in the car. The car is a small environment and your rider will sense that you are tense. This one tip can save you a bad review and keep you driving safely.
6. Clean your car - often - and leave the spray or wipes out where your rider can see them. The post-Covid new normal is that everyone wants to know that you are being very hygienic with car-cleaning.
7. Make your car smell really nice by cleaning it, but also by using a neutral deodoriser. Do you have a friend or family member who is a 'super smeller'? Get them to smell inside your vehicle and give you honest feedback. Overpowering smells or old food smells can result in lower ratings.
8. Driving the drunk shift - Some people chose to work the overnight shift on the weekends - what we call the drunk shift. It's important work - driving people home after a night out keeps them off the road, but it can be a trial for the driver. It isn't for everyone, but they can be the most profitable shifts of the week. Because so many people are under the influence, this can result in somewhat lower ratings. It can sting, but don’t take it personally.
9. Thank your rider - some rides are difficult and it might be hard to do, but always, always thank your rider. You are providing a service but equally they are contributing to your livelihood and your freedom to work whenever you want.
If you are looking for product recommendations, contact the team on 0800 MODE RIDE (0800 66 33 74).
What are your top tips for getting great ratings?