As someone who worked as a pizza delivery driver for two years, driving doesn’t scare me. In fact, it’s one of the more enjoyable jobs I’ve had in my quest to find the perfect part-time job. Recently, as my twenty-first birthday approached, I decided to take up ridesharing as a driver. Here’s what I’ve learned during my time working for Lyft.
1) The pool of people is so random.
I’ve driven everyone of every gender, religion, ethnicity, occupation, etc. Everyone is different, everyone has a unique story, and as a Lyft driver you are given the unique opportunity to expose yourself to those you otherwise wouldn’t have a reason to interact with. Never have any expectations for your passengers. 40-year-old Vinnie may be a wandering traveler with two months to live who needs a ride to the train station, and 18-year-old Bella may be a mother of three living with her parents who just needed a ride to get some cigarettes.
2) It puts things into perspective for you.
While some people using Lyft are just trying to find a ride home so they can have a drink at the local bar, others are using this ride-sharing app because they don’t have their own transportation other than the bus. Recently, I met a very kind woman who needed a ride home from work. She lived in the not-so-nice area of my city, so I was a bit weary to be driving there. She assured me though that her neighbors had been so kind to her and helped her out in times of need. When I pulled up to her home, I told her to stay warm since it had been so cold recently, to which she replied “hopefully they’ve turned my heat back on.” My heart hurt so much for her. The point being: when you drive for ride-sharing, you meet people who are struggling and who live much humbler lives yet they’re just as kind and cheerful as anyone. It makes you reflect on how you hold yourself considering how good you have it in comparison.
3) Bring supplies.
Consider yourself a host(ess). You’re inviting people into your vehicle. Is the temperature comfortable? Do you have snacks in case your passengers need something to sober up? Is there a blanket in case someone needs it? Do you have water bottles stocked somewhere? Maybe a throw-up bucket for those wild Friday/Saturday nights?
My ratings on Lyft and my interactions with passengers have significantly improved by being prepared and being a courteous driver. No need to break the bank, but it’s good to keep things on hand in case there’s some kind of emergency, or if you’re hoping to get some tips.
4) Some people want to be your best friend, others want you to stfu.
You know how sometimes you’re in a social mood and other times you’re not? That applies to your passengers, too. Sometimes you’ve picked up people who are either in great moods or they’re so drunk they want to be besties. But some people have just gotten off of work, and this is the first peace and quiet they’ve had all day long. They may want you to talk to them, which you should. It’s good for you. Some may just prefer the sound of a generic radio station. Either or, be prepared to feel out your situation and adjust accordingly.
5) It’s okay to decline or end a ride if you feel unsafe.
This isn’t bullsh*t. If you pick someone up and they start harassing you, kick them out of the car. One of my favorite parts of ride-sharing companies, especially Lyft, is that your safety is their number one concern. Even if you’ve just got a bad feeling, or you feel uncomfortable with the ride, do not continue. Cancel the ride. Someone else can pick them up, but there’s only one you. One of the most important parts of working for this kind of company is understanding your limits and being willing to communicate that should you need to with your employer.
What are your thoughts on driving for ride-sharing companies? Any horror stories? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!