How to improve Uber driver rating

Follow these five top tips to make every Uber ride a 5-star trip:

Tip #1: Keep your vehicle clean

A clean car with a fresh smell is one of the most important tools for any private hire taxi business. Let’s be honest – nobody wants to climb into a dirty, smelly vehicle!

A clean vehicle:

• Creates a positive first impression
• Is really important to passengers
• Reflects your professionalism

Here are a few tips to keep a squeaky clean car that’s sure to boost your Uber rider rating:

Tip #2: Make each journey a pleasant experience

A clean and well-maintained car is one way to make a good first impression. The rest of the journey (and your Uber rider rating) depends on you!

Here are a few suggestions:

• Have a positive attitude: Maintain a positive, respectful, and friendly demeanour throughout the entire trip. No one likes a rude, grumpy Uber driver!
• Be a good host: Make passengers feel welcome and safe by greeting them politely, making eye contact, and assisting with their luggage. Be attentive to their needs but also respect their privacy.
• Be helpful: Assist passengers in getting in and out of your vehicle. You might offer child car seats if families are your go-to clientele or an umbrella when it’s raining.
• Ask preferences: Ask passengers if they have any preferences regarding music, car temperatures, or a preferred route.
• Keep the vehicle smoke-free: Vehicles that smell like an ashtray are unattractive to passengers. If you are a taxi driver who smokes, we suggest having a cigarette/vape outside the vehicle while on a break and not while passengers are in the car. Uber has a no-smoking rule for passengers.
• Keep up to date with services: Well-maintained vehicles ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride. Make sure your vehicle is regularly serviced to prevent breakdowns. Being stranded on the side of the road is a fast track to low Uber ratings!
• Avoid distractions: Keep your attention on the road and avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving. Use phone mounts for hands-free driving.
• Check for items: Do a thorough check for left behind items when passengers exit the vehicle. You may be able to reunite them with their lost property via the Uber app – a surefire way to get a 5-star rating!
• Engage in conversation: Some passengers may want to chat, while others won’t. Uber drivers must “read the room” and pay attention to passengers’ body language. If they’re closed off or distracted, keep small talk to a minimum. If they’re up for a chatter, ask open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing.
• Drive responsibly: Uber drivers must do everything they can to prevent an accident, such as avoiding sudden braking, aggressive acceleration and reckless driving. Always adhere to the rules of the road and invest in comprehensive Uber taxi insurance to ensure your and your passengers’ safety.

Bonus reads:

• How To Be A Good Taxi Driver
• Vehicle Checks For Uber Drivers
• How To Make Conversations With Passengers

Tip #3: Be on time

Being punctual is one of the best ways to improve your Uber rating as it shows you are a reliable professional. Passengers appreciate Uber drivers who value their time, as being late can lead to frustration, low ratings or worse – a heated debate!

Here are a few tips for being on time:

• Plan ahead: Give yourself enough time to get to your pick-up point, factoring in traffic conditions and potential delays.
• Use GPS navigation: Use sat-nav devices to plan your route if you’re collecting passengers in an unfamiliar part of town. There are many GPS smartphone apps like Google Maps or Waze available to help you find the most efficient route.
• Communication is key: Should you encounter any unexpected delays, communicate with your Uber passenger as quickly as possible, providing an updated arrival time.

Bonus read: Best Apps For Taxi Drivers

Tip #4: Know your way around

Knowing the best route from A to B is crucial in providing a positive rider experience. It’s also a one-way ticket to higher Uber ratings! Here’s why:

• Efficient routes: Knowing local shortcuts and how to avoid heavily congested areas can save time and fuel and reduce stress for you and your riders. Picking the fastest, most economical route is bound to up your Uber rating.
• Quick pick-ups and drop-offs: Knowing your area – like familiarising yourself with local landmarks and streets – can help you navigate pick-ups and drop-offs quickly and more efficiently.
• Stay updated: Keep up to date with any changes in your area, such as road works or traffic patterns, to ensure a smoother ride.
• Local knowledge: You can offer valuable insights to your passengers when you know your way around the city, such as restaurant recommendations, tourist spots, or hidden gems.
• Invest in technology: Use navigation apps to help you find your way around unfamiliar areas. Alternatively, take some time (when off duty) to explore your surroundings.

Tip #5: Go the extra mile

Paying attention to your passenger’s needs is a great way to improve your Uber rating. You might consider offering them optional extras to make their journey more convenient and pleasant. Even though riders might only be in your company for a short period, here are a few low-cost ideas:

• Spare USB cables for charging devices
• Refresher towels when collecting passengers from the airport
• Quick shoe shine for business professionals
• Free Wi-Fi hotspot
• Complimentary bottled water (sealed, of course!)
• Child car seats for family-going passengers
• Paper towels, tissues and wet wipes for runny noses or minor spills
• Antibacterial wipes, hand sanitiser, and disposable face masks for peace of mind