8 Ways to get more work as a private hire driver
Private hire drivers can get more work by investing in their vehicles and services, networking, and using apps, among others.
As a private hire driver, you have the luxury of setting your own standards and being your own boss. However, being a self-employed taxi driver means you are responsible for your income and have to maximise your earnings.
In this article, we’ll explore eight ways you can attract more business and earn a steady income. From optimising your online presence and marketing your business to entering niche markets and networking, here’s how to get more work as a private hire driver.
Step #1: Optimise your online presence
The key to bringing in new business is marketing. There are many ways private hire drivers can increase their visibility and attract more customers by marketing themselves online. This includes having a website and social media presence, as well as investing in online advertising.
Build a professional website
Having a professional website can help a taxi driver build credibility in the digital world. To attract new clients and drive traffic to your page, you should:
- Optimise your listing on Google My Business: Set up and verify your Google My Business profile to increase your online visibility. You will appear on maps and in local search results.
- Search Engine Optimisation (SEO): Use SEO best practices – such as adding relevant, location-based keywords in your headings and meta descriptions – to increase your chances of being seen on Google.
- Mobile friendly: Most potential customers will book rides from their phones. If your website is not mobile- and user-friendly, you will likely lose business.
As a private hire driver, it’s essential to have an online booking system. Ideally, you would want a booking system linked to your website.
Having a strong online presence instils trust in your services. Be sure to include the following when setting up your site:
- “About me” section
- Operating hours
- Areas of operation
- Pricing
- Services offered
- Ratings and reviews
- Contact information
- Booking procedure
- Cancellation policies
Leverage social media for marketing
If you don’t have the budget for dedicated marketing, online marketing via social media can be equally beneficial. Private hire drivers can set up social media accounts for their business. Using the correct hashtags and location settings, you can reach an audience of potential customers.
Your private hire page can increase its social media following by offering discounts or promotions to followers who:
- Share the page
- Use your hashtag
- Leave a review
- Tag your business
Online platforms and apps for private hire drivers
- Online marketplaces
- TikTok
Advertising
Paid advertising can help private hire taxi drivers reach a targeted audience quickly. This way you can set location specifications to attract customers in your vicinity.
If the technicalities of marketing and advertising are beyond your capabilities, consider enlisting a dedicated marketing company. Yes, this will cost money, but the good news is that marketing can be claimed as a business expense.
Bonus read: What Expenses Can A Taxi Driver Claim?
Looking for cheap taxi insurance? Get your quote today!
Get QuotesStep #2: Use apps
As mentioned, online platforms and apps are a great way for a private hire driver to advertise and attract new customers. But there are also many apps for companies looking to contract taxi drivers.
Apps that help private hire drivers get more work
Taxi drivers can sign up to specific apps and work as contracted drivers for established businesses such as Uber. While you will pay a commission fee to the company, it is a great way to have guaranteed business. Some of the most popular apps for UK private hire drivers include:
For a further breakdown of the commission rate and earning potential of these private hire companies, be sure to read our article on the best apps for taxi drivers.
If you are a private hire driver just starting out, working for an established taxi company allows you to learn about the industry, harness your skills and build your confidence as a driver. It is worth noting that some private hire firms may have stricter criteria when hiring drivers.
For instance, Wheely provides a luxury chauffeur service and requires the driver’s conduct and vehicle to be of a high standard.
Step #3: Focus on your customer service
Excellent customer service is fundamental in the taxi industry. Drivers provide a service and, when executed with professionalism and a high standard, it can be beneficial.
How good customer service can get private drivers more work
Provide excellent customer service to retain and attract clients. Word-of-mouth referrals and online ratings are extremely valuable. New clients are more likely to use your services if they have first-hand reviews from previous clients.
This allows drivers to build a solid reputation, leading to more work. Of course, excellent customer service may also encourage passengers to leave a generous tip.
Here are some quick suggestions for providing excellent customer service:
- Ensure you and your vehicle are clean and well-presented.
- Be punctual and communicate any delays with your passengers.
- Have a personable demeanour.
- Assist your passengers with any luggage, bags, or equipment they may have.
- Stay compliant with the Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (Safeguarding and Road Safety) Act 2022.
- Provide water, tissues, hand sanitiser, phone chargers, or a good selection of music.
- Handle any complaints or disputes professionally.
After each ride, thank your passengers for using your services, and ask them kindly to leave any feedback and ratings on the platform you use.
Bonus read: How To Be A Good Taxi Driver
Step #4: Go niche
Getting into niche markets for private hire drivers can help you get more work and give yourself a competitive edge.
Some niche markets include:
- Corporate transport
- Airport transfers
- Transportation that allows pets
- Food delivery
- Home-to-school transportation
- Physical disability transport
- Non-urgent hospital transport
- Courier services
- Long distance transport
- Tour guides
Depending on the niche, you may require a certain kind or size of private hire vehicle. Bigger vehicles may be better suited to markets that cater to a larger number of passengers, such as school drop-offs and guided tours.
Step #5: Network
Private hire drivers can get more work by approaching certain industries and offering their services, partnerships or collaborations. Industries worth networking include:
- Your local authority
- Hotels
- Corporate businesses
- Event venues
Follow these tips when networking:
- Carry business cards with contact information or QR codes.
- Develop a referral programme.
Remember that networking goes both ways. Just as you would like a hotel to recommend your services, you should recommend theirs. Be sure to actively promote your referral programmes and other incentives.
Step #6: Invest in your vehicle, services, and equipment
Taxi drivers are more likely to gain and retain work if they are properly equipped. Vehicles should be properly maintained and kept up-to-date with new gadgets and technology.
Private hire vehicles should:
- Have comprehensive private hire taxi insurance
- Be serviced regularly
- Be suited to the private hire industry
- Invest in vehicle signage and branding
Taxi drivers can invest in their services by:
- Completing an NVQ Certificate in Road Passenger Vehicle Driving (Taxi and Private Hire) (RQF) diploma
- Investing in telematics insurance
- Doing advanced driving courses
- Completing first aid training
Apps taxi drivers can use to increase efficiency and get more work:
- Google Maps – for navigation
- MileIQ – for tracking mileage
- Waze – for avoiding congested areas and road closures
- JustPark – to help find and book parking spots
- AroundMe – for a comprehensive list of nearby amenities in unfamiliar areas
If your services are carefully curated and you run your business efficiently, customers will remain loyal and make recommendations.
Step #7: Stay updated on industry regulations
If you want to get more business, you must remain compliant with local and industry regulations. Non-compliance could result in hefty fines and even licence suspension.
Be sure to stay updated with renewals for your private hire driver’s licence and check the MOT status of your vehicle.
Step #8: Do your research
Private hire drivers who want to get more business should spend some time doing research. Drivers can have a competitive advantage if they are aware of things such as:
- Industry trends
- Competitors
- Major events
- Peak commuting hours
- Average local taxi fares
- Technological advancements such as new payment methods
Final thoughts
Whether you work for a private hire firm or yourself, these steps will help you get more work as a private hire driver. This industry is competitive, and we at SimplyQuote have many valuable resources to help you become a successful taxi driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
On average, you could earn between £20,000 and £30,000 annually as a private hire taxi driver. This amount will differ according to your taxi fares, location, expenses, and workload.
You can use your own vehicle for transporting passengers, but it’s worth considering a dedicated work vehicle, especially if you want to enter a niche market such as luxury transport or group rides. Having a car used solely for taxi services will make aspects like tracking fuel consumption and mileage easier.
Yes, drivers may use more than one ride-hailing app to ensure they get more work. However, you may want to exercise caution as you could overload yourself. The various apps may have different rules and regulations which could become confusing.
As a taxi driver, you need to be mindful of how many hours you work. Stay compliant with the Driver’s Hours: GB domestic rules and Rules on Drivers’ Hours and Tachographs – Passenger Vehicles in Northern Ireland.