It finally happened! Uber has announced they are rolling out a new feature allowing passengers to tip their driver with an app. The app is already being used in a few cities (Seattle, Houston and Minneapolis), and will be available all over the U.S. by end of July 2017.
Lyft, their competitor, has offered a tipping app since 2012. An email from a Lyft representative defines the success of the app: “Since our earliest days, Lyft has offered in-app tipping because it’s the right thing to do. After four years, Lyft drivers had earned $100 million in tips. Nine months after that, total tips doubled to $200 million. Today, two and a half months later, we’re celebrating another milestone: Lyft drivers have now earned over a quarter billion dollars in tips.”
In answer to one of the most commonly asked tipping questions, “Should I tip my driver?”, the answer continues to be yes. For good service and a positive experience, the rideshare driver, much like a taxi driver, most often will appreciate a tip.
One of the issues people have when tipping with an app is the pressure felt to over tip. When a tip is suggested at the time of payment on the app, one driver stated, “It just feels wrong to decline.” As with any other service, a tip is determined by the experience.
Don’t feel pressured by an app.
If the default is a larger amount than you intended, give at your comfort level. Did your driver go out of the way to make your ride more pleasant? Tip accordingly and don’t forget to leave a positive review. By the way, they will also be reviewing you as a customer! No worry!
What should a passenger expect from their driver?
Here are some basic services a rider should always expect – with or without a tip.
- A prompt arrival. If there is a delay, the driver should specify. I recently had to get to the airport and helplessly watched as my rideshare drivers route kept going in circles, causing my arrival time to get bumped later and later. (I eventually took a hotel taxi.)
- A clean car. Passengers may have baggage, so both cabin and trunk should be empty and fresh.
- A friendly face. I am not suggesting a chatty driver, but certainly, a pleasant greeting and perhaps some helpful information if the passenger asks.
- No foul odors. Food odors and smells can linger. If the last passenger wore excessive cologne or had an offensive smell, it will affect the next passengers’ ride. I stepped into one car that reeked of body odor. Attention should be taken before the next passenger steps into the car.
- No blaring or offensive music. Aggressive news talk radio and loud music should be left for personal time. Or, simply put something soothing on in the background to calm a harried travelers nerves.
- A driver should not text or talk on the phone while driving. It’s not only rude, but it’s also illegal.
- A safe driving experience. Drivers should respect the speed limit and avoid weaving in and out of traffic, following too closely, or screaming at other drivers. Show no aggression and give your passenger a stress-free ride.
- No sales pitch. A driver should never use the ride as an opportunity to sell a product or service. However, if you request a recommendation, the driver may know first-hand the best local restaurants, popular attractions or a close store or pharmacy. Keep in mind it’s not their job to be your tour guide – but it is a nice gesture.
Enjoy your ride!
Best of luck,
Diane
