If you’re a rideshare driver, chances are you have a pretty good idea of how your ideal rider acts, right?
They’re quiet. They’re courteous. They tip well.
But have you ever thought about what your worst nightmare of a rider might end up looking like?
Given ridesharing’s absolutely insane popularity right now, it should come as no surprise for drivers that sometimes your passengers’ behavior might be less than ideal. Upset or unreasonable passengers might come with the territory of being a driver, after all.
This also rings true for those looking to get started with Amazon Flex or a similar delivery service. Just as drivers have bad experience with passengers, those delivery drivers often have to face angry customers who have an issue with their package.
Although not everyone can be all smiles or cheery around-the-clock, drivers need to practice patience and understand what to do in case of an unruly passenger or customer as you’re going to deal with one sooner or later. By keeping the following four tips in the back of your mind, you’ll be better equipped to know what to do when such a passenger enters your vehicle or confronts you during a delivery.
Kill ‘em with Kindness
To borrow from the old saying, sometimes the best action you can take is to be kind. Never stoop to the level of someone who is angry or upset, especially if they’re insistent on nitpicking every aspect of your driving. Whether a passenger claims you’re going too fast or don’t know your way around town, simply nodding in agreement and going along with their unwarranted criticism definitely beats a confrontation. After all, getting angry in response is not worth risking a poor review.
For delivery drives, the same rules apply. Remember: you aren’t Amazon or any other delivery service, but rather an extension of that company. You aren’t solely responsible for when their packages get shipped, so brush off any blame you might get as a result of a “late” delivery that’s out of your hands.
Let Them Do the Talking
On a similar note, some people just flat out need to vent or get out their emotions out. You never know when you’re dealing with someone who’s going through a tough time or just might flat out be a bit unstable. While you don’t necessarily need to be their verbal punching bag, keep in mind that you might just be the only person around to listen to whatever it is they might have to say.
Assess Your Situation
The more you drive, the better you can read people. Is it possible that you’re dealing with someone that’s drunk? Perhaps they’re in distress or other panicking? Assessing the mental state of your passenger can clue you in on whether you should try to initiate conversation or simply listen. In some situations it might make sense to lighten the mood with a joke; however, sometimes complete silence is just as golden.
Focus on the Road
What’s most important is staying calm while on the road, ultimately focusing on getting to where you need to go safely. If you have a truly awful experience, you’re within your rights to contact the company you work for to let them know what’s going on. You might be surprised at how sympathetic they are to your situation.
Rideshare drivers shouldn’t have to live in fear of an unruly passenger. Instead, equip yourself with these tips and drive with peace of mind.
