As we cross the threshold into a new year, it’s a good time to reassess and consider logical ways to stay safer and earn a better living.
ALWAYS Use Defensive Driving Skills
Although the holiday season is now behind us, NYC traffic will remain heavy. Plan ahead and save yourself from excess stress, safety risks and customer complaints.
- Lateness: Running late can lead to unsafe driving, increasing the risk of accidents. Always allow extra time for traffic and provide a realistic ETA.
- Mood: Leave personal problems at home. Focus on safe driving and customer service.
- Excitement: Do not get excited or angry with other motorists’ aggressions.
- Impulsivity: Never act without carefully scanning the entire area first.
- Daydreaming: Limit your daydreaming to when you are parked. Defensive driving requires 100% concentration at all times.
- Stay Focused: Avoid listening to radio stations that can distract you, either through fun music or news. Maintain your concentration, please stay focused.
Know Your Clients
Although every rule has exceptions, good customer service will generally earn you better gratuities. You can better serve your clients if you better understand who they are. The following is a profile of a large percentage of your customer base.
- Upper-level management
- College education
- Discretionary income
- Well-traveled
- Demanding and impatient
- Expects “exceptional” service
What Makes a Professional Chauffeur?
Our industry provides an essential service to NYC executives, but drivers must never take their passengers for granted. Always consider the high expectations passengers have for services provided by luxury sedan, limo and black car bases. Practice the following, and you will reduce stress, have a more pleasant work shift and earn more money.
- Take pride in your personal appearance. Maintain high standards for appearance, manner and behavior.
- Think, look and act PROFESSIONAL at all times. Passengers appreciate it more than you realize.
- Remember: Clients are not interruptions, they are why you have a job. They deserve the most courteous and attentive treatment you can provide.
- Black Car drivers should dress according to their base dress code. Medallion drivers should comply with the TLC’s dress code.
- Be positive, courteous and always remain calm, even if the passenger is shouting or behaving erratically.
- Be respectful and always apologize for your mistakes.
- Always show patience in traffic and in your dealings with passengers.
