100% agree! My wife recently got in an accident (fortunately with no one in the car) and the first thing we were thinking is how much we wish we had a dash cam!

3000+ trips and I think a camera might have helped me about 4 times. Not going to worry about it. Life is too short and I don't want my passengers thinking their conversations are being recorded. What happens in my Uber stays in my Uber. I am taking a risk but I am a big boy and I can handle it. Plus you always get some cool stories to tell people about your worst Uber riders.

I can agree with that. Up until this point, a dash cam would have helped me 0 times, but never say never... I think it would be fun to have recordings of awful passengers personally.

Michael Ishay Raveh absolutely

Some say a dash cam is also helpful to prevent issues. As passengers will not do crazy stuff on camera...

Thanks for doing that!

..., 11..., 12...

All really good tips. I had not thought about all weather mats, but will be buying some once I hit my second $1K in earnings. Watching out for them on eBay now... Bought my dash cam with my first $1K in earnings. Love the candy in cup holders idea. Already doing most of these. Really nice to have other customer friendly drivers confirm best practices :)

Uber drivers aren't robots, chill...

Mich Dax This list was really helpful! Thanks Mich!

That's most of the battle! All the rest I do is just a little bonus to make up for my bad jokes while I'm driving!

4.96 with 5k rides. I do the same. Clean car and nice smile. People love the simplicity.

Agree with you, I have 1900 rides and 4.98. Dress nice and keep car nice and clean!

Alex Maldonado right bribery unnecessary

damn yall put some miles on your cars!!

Haha! People ask me about that sometimes, but honestly, I just love the way the music makes me feel. If I'm by myself I'd probably choose 80s rock sometimes, but it's not always a fan favorite.

LOLOL 😂 As his wife, I think this is a hilarious comment! Trust me though, he is as straight laced as they come.

2 funny!

That's awesome advice especially for driving at night! I left my wallet in a Lyft in Hawaii and didn't have it until 3 days later when I was leaving I finally got in touch with our driver. Was a horrifying trip!

It certainly can be fun to hustle and make a decent living. Plus, immediate pay uts??? Game over right!?!

I'm not too concerned about what other people have to say. I'm fine with people disagreeing as to what makes someone a top Uber driver, but there really isn't a fair metric to use besides driver rating. I recently took a ride from a driver with 11,000 trips. His car was filthy, but he was a pretty nice guy just trying to make a living. I gave him a 5 and tipped him like I do every ride I take. Most people obviously don't have a problem with him because I think his rating was like a 4.81, but it's plain to see a few little improvements would help him stand out and probably get tipped more often. If you're going to use Uber as a second or even a first job, you might as well treat it like a job right? Costs very little to do the little extra that I do and it yields results.

Same here

Thanks for being an asset to the rideshare community!

Great minds think alike Nelson! Thanks!

Thanks for the compliment! I'm sure there are many things other drivers utilize to help them out. I am sure I can improve by using other's tips as well, these are just things that have personally helped me and I'm glad I could add 1 to your arsenal!

Thank you so much for the kind words and support! Man I actually would love to work as an Uber trainer. Would be a pretty sweet gig!

Yeah, emesis bags should be something I add to an additional video! Have you had passengers throw up in your car at night??

@@TroveLessTraveled_ Yes ! last night one of my late night passengers started vomiting instantly but I was glad he got a hold of the bag in time. Nothing spilled but the awful smell was in the air, he was even nice enough to tip me 12 bucks on a 2 mile ride. Honestly its a lot better having those because they're small and you can close them to cover the smell. I cant imagine going out of service because you need to clean up, been there done that and it sucks. best luck to you !

Thanks for the support Jodie! Seems silly, but I constantly think to myself "would my parents be proud of the way I conduct myself or proud of my driving style?"

With the new Uber pro program it actually matters what your rating is. It can jeopardize your ability to access several features on the Uber platform

Thanks for the support! Obviously you're a great member of the rideshare community and it's people like you that make it possible for people like me to create a livelihood using the Uber platform!

I appreciate your comment! Anytime I'm working I try to take it seriously. Obviously as a part-time driver (and I'm sure all part-time drivers would feel the same way) I hope there's a day I don't have to drive at all! But until my other business pursuits get to that point I'll keep hustling and netting over $20/hr on a side gig that is mildly enjoyable!

If you know how to communicate with people you'll rarely have a problem being successful in life. Most people are probably not as gifted as you Ezra. I mean that will all sincerity. For those people who drive and struggle with a language barrier (maybe an immigrant who doesn't speak English well yet), someone who is a bit introverted, or maybe just isn't a confident driver, these tips may be invaluable for them. Thanks for the comment! I hope you continue to make Uber an incredible platform for part-time drivers like me to benefit from, both as a rider and a driver.

Thanks for watching! Thanks for being an asset to the rideshare community!

I have had 2 instances where people opened a water and then put it back. Can't understand what these people are thinking sometimes, but it's the nature of the job. People tend to do 1 of 3 things with their trash: put it in the cup holder, put it in the seat back pocket (not a big deal), or take it with them. I just keep an eye out and try to keep it clean. It pays off!

Here here! I started doing that recently. There is a car wash near the house that is $1 for 2 minutes. I'll just put in $1 and give it a quick soap and rinse. It's just like doing dishes. The quicker you get to cleaning the quicker you get the dishes clean. If you only wash your car once every 2-3 weeks it takes longer to clean. $1/week problem solved.

Michael, just shows how important it is to always be professional right? If your experience was positive enough to outshine the negative experience he may have had right after you, he will probably still choose Uber/Lyft in the future. For that, all of us in every city benefit. If he takes a trip to California and his experience with each of you was terrible he may choose another means of transportation and that affects me. See how we're all really on the same team?! Keep up the good work!

Thanks mate! Thanks for the support!

I believe this, what ended up happening?

Thanks I appreciate the support!

Thanks for the support!

Looks like you're already out there killing it! Glad to see it. Hopefully, I was able to help in some small way!

I've had that happen a few times to me as well with the luggage. I had passengers bring 5 suitcases for 3 people in my Prius for an UberX. They wouldn't fit in the trunk so I reasoned with them. I explained it would probably be a more comfortable albeit more expensive ride to cancel with me and take an UberXL or they could each put a suitcase on their lap. They chose a suitcase on each lap and left me a tip afterward. As far as bribing customers, for me it's twofold. Yes, it improves my ratings, but in my opinion (and the numbers match) I make it up and more in tips. I don't solicit tips or ratings. I just invested in myself and it's paid off. I'll tell this story again. I took a ride recently with a driver who had 11,000 trips. His car was filthy but his rating was still a 4.81. I think that was largely due to his kindness. I had no problem leaving him 5 stars. So if the only thing you can do is increase your happiness, that will probably be sufficient for most people. Thanks for the comment Nic and good luck out there!

You’re telling me dude!

I'm a driver, and clean my car prior to driving. I hate all scenty things, so, you'd only be smelling a windex or light cleaner scent if you got in my car. I check it after every ride, and I'll stop, get out, and clean shake carpet just so when the next rider gets in, it looks fresh and clean.

Keep up the hard work! You're a benefit to the rideshare community!

You're right, I am working on a solution for the trash!

Thank you for the overwhelming support! I think if everyone were to view their rideshare driving as a professional experience they would see far better results, network better, and just overall feel better about themselves. I agree on tip #11

A little conversation can go a long way! Good job out there providing excellent service!

It's a miracle worker right?!? Most people don't even know how much they smell but I would really hate if the next person in my car thinks it came from me!

It’s hilarious! I’m such an innocent, I didn’t know that was a pot smell. I thought those who smelled that way had been drinking a lot of gin! 😆 I was like, “Damn! How much gin did they drink to smell like that!?” Finally, I figured thinks out. Marijuana is NASTY, smells NASTY! Ugh! I’ve also had drunks get in my car that wreaked like a whiskey bottle! Gotta keep the car smelling good!

In LA you have to pretend you're on vacation to help you get over being in traffic. It helps lighten the mood when waiting at stop lights as well. Thanks for your support Cappy!

The Uber trolls will try to bring you down with 1s. Just rise above. I get them too. That's why it's important to me to get as many satisfied people to leave a 5 rating, hence all the little things I do.

You’re absolutely right. Within about 15 seconds I can tell if I’m going to have a good conversation with the passenger or it will be mostly silent. Either way doesn’t bother me, but it’s certainly more fun when you get to interact with new people from around the world!

100% agree. I think that comes from experience. Most people are pretty introverted around new people anyways. I just ask a few quick questions and based on their responses I'll gauge if they'd just prefer to play on their phone in the back. Certainly, a skill to know when to shut up, but my wife is pretty vocal about it so I've been well trained!

Your ceiling is only what you are willing to settle for! Awesome job!

Thanks for watching and that’s a great idea!

@@TroveLessTraveled_ Hey can I add my playlist that help me get tips. It went from 10% - 16%

*helps

Wow! Desert and no AC is a death sentence!

Man, you are so right! People these days are just passive aggressive. Just simply ask me and I can accommodate nearly any reasonable request. Instead, they don't ask and just leave a 3...

No way! Whereabouts was I when I picked you up? I have heard people whisper in the back wondering if I drugged the candy. I suppose you can never be too sure. at least with the waters if the seal is unbroken then you should be safe, but you're right you just never know with anyone these days. I hope at least I left a good impression on you and you're encouraged to continue using Uber or Lyft for your transportation needs!

Thanks for the support mate!

Hopefully it’s going well!!

Thanks for the tip! After another 500 trips I've been thinking for a few more tips I can suggest to people and that may be one of them. Also thanks for subscribing!

I've definitely thought of keeping the Bill Simmons podcast on when passengers get in the car but I'm a fan of providing a neutral experience for riders. I think candy is a great way to improve your tips and I've found it to be helpful in growing my bottom line, but to each their own. As for asking a preferred destination, if I'm taking someone to work or taking an older local who I assume has a routine I think it's a good practice to ask. Older people tend to not rely on GPS and may not be familiar with the route the app provides. Other than that it sounds like you're killing it out there! Keep up the good work!

How do you know who is middle class and lower vs who is rich? Not everyone dresses like what they actyally make. I've seen millionairs in a basic tee-shirt, jeans and baseball cap.

@@bakadeshi_aunstudios Well I grew up in South Central LA and I know the neighborhoods that I pick up from most of the time in the LA area. I personally lived in So Cal all my life and have a pretty good idea of the person financial status when I pick them up and talk to them.

Glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for being an asset to the rideshare community! It's people like you that help the passengers have a positive experience and keep coming back no matter what city they're in!

Thanks, I appreciate the support! I'll be putting together another one soon!

I just bought a second pair off Craigslist for my wife's Prius this week which included the trunk mat for $80

Yeah, it's a life saver - well at least a hero for those of us who prefer fresh air!

Same here

What a great idea!

I'm not suggesting you can't be professional in pajamas and a night cap, but for me personally, I just try to be 1% better in every area, and the way someone is dressed does send a message. That's not debatable, however the way you conduct yourself speaks much louder than what you're wearing, I do agree on that.

The one tricky thing about Uber ratings is that it only takes into account your last 500 ratings. Older ratings after 500 drop off. So if you recently received a 1 or a 2 it will replace a 5 that drops off and you'll have to work back up. I clean the outside as often as necessary, but keeping the inside clean is mandatory. A little small talk can go a long way to making the ride better for people! Keep working hard and the results will follow!

I've read about recharging the charcoal in the sun. How does it work?

Car cleanliness is the most important thing you’re absolutely right

You're a champ! 11k rides is unreal! Way to crush it out there!

Won’t be the last time!

Thanks for the support Jeremy. Feel free to share any suggestions on things you've done that helped you!

That is so true. I have had a few times I haven't recognized someone was cold straight away and I could definitely do better at assessing the needs of the rider! Thanks!

Tip on 80% of rides! Dude you need to make some videos on your tips to getting tips! Amazing. Keep up the good work!

California Rideshare I kid you not, for example last night I had my biggest tip ever! A group of wealthy couples asked me to stop at a burger place on way home. The guy handed me a $100 bill for being patient and making the stop. I always make extra stops, always. 90% of customers will tip big when you give them a great experience. I made $125 total on that one hour ride!

Remember that only your last 500 ratings count towards your score. They fall off after that! So it's possible you had a lot of 5s fall off and then finally some old 1s fell off and you're leveling out. Keep striving for 5s and the tips will follow!

It's crazy to see your rating drop when someone gives you a 1 star. When I started, I was at 5 stars for a couple of months. But then one night I had a problem finding a couple (2 men) who address led me to a cul-de-sac and I couldn't find them. Well I called them and found out they were about 100 yards away from me on the other side of the brick wall at a taco bell parking lot. So I eventually found them and apologized for the delay. But to make matter worse, they were arguing with each other for the whole 15 minute trip. Then when I was arriving to their house, one of them ask me where am I a going since I just passed their house. I showed them the Uber navigation, showing that I was going in the right direction. Anyways I turned around and got to their house and said bye and good night but they just got out without a word. Immediately I said well there goes my perfect rating and sure enough I received a 1 star. My rating dropped to a 4.8 and in the next couple of 100 trips I received a couple of 1 stars more. Not sure from who but there is nothing I can do about it. Now I'm at a 4.81. Oh well, I'm polite and keep my car clean so I'm trying my best to control what I can do. Since I only drive sometimes in the weekends from 10 PM to 2AM. I figured a lot of people forget to rate you anyways since they are tired and just want to get home.

@@ABBAManon Unfortunately every driver gets 1s for no reason. I'm confident there is rarely a time a driver actually deserves a 1. Do I deserve a 3 or a 4 every once in a while if I miss a turn or something? Possibly. But, I've never deserved any 1 that I've received. I always try to make conversation with someone because it's much harder to leave someone a negative rating and much more likely they'd leave me a positive rating and a tip if I simply try to make a friend. I think the key is getting more satisfied customers to leave a rating. Kind of like those bumper stickers on trucks, "How's my driving?" - with a phone number. Only upset people are calling that number. My effort is to change that by over delivering on service.

Under promise, over deliver! Good work mate!

Keep up the good work and the results will follow! Thanks for making the Uber platform a better place for everyone of us!

Thanks for the compliment! The one thing I'm trying to work on is getting more people to leave ratings. Less than 50% of my riders leave any feedback at all. Typically upset people always remember to leave their 4 or 1! I want to work on getting a greater percentage of people to leave feedback. I think I can move the needle that way.

That is the same issue I am dealing with here in Dallas TX, the vast majority of customers that are happy with the service provided do not take the time to rate or comment but we can always count on that guy that is never happy to leave his 1 Star rating with a long rant about how he or she did not like some small thing that no one else even cares about. As of today 09-29-18 I have over 3700 trips completed and have received a rating by only about 1800 of those trips so less than half of all my riders have given any kind of indication of their satisfaction regardless of what they have said while in my vehicle. If it matters I do have over 1600 Five Star trips.

Bo, that's exactly right. 50% of your satisfied passengers simply get out of the car and forget about you. I think if I'm able to provide enough friendly perks in my car they'll serve as reminders to the passengers to leave ratings for me! I should keep track of the percentage of people who leave ratings for me over the next 100 and make a video on that.

Obviously, we all have our own way of doing things. I drive a Prius so it's definitely not a sweet ride anyone will remember. I try to make up for it by doing the little things. My regular job is customer service based so I totally get how conversation makes everything better. To answer your question about the water, that has happened twice. I only put one water in the back of each seat now so if I hear someone opening a water (90% of people that take them ask, 10% are douches who think everything in life belongs to them and is free) I'll remember to put another one back there. Again twice I've seen a half drunk water back there and I went full rage monster when they were gone. Just means I get to recycle the bottle I guess. I have not had an issue with trash. Occasionally someone will leave a wrapper on the seat, but usually, they just put it in the seatback pocket which is fine.

jmess is right about eye contact and being nice. Some cultures like China, consider eye contact hostile. So, we use empathy and mirroring of the customers body language. We can tell if they are eager to make small talk or not 😂

@Aaron V LOL. This is funny. As long as the driver is nice, that's priority.

Also candy tapper in your car..trash

Wrappers in car .

Thanks for subscribing! I have some more videos I need to edit and get up for everyone!

good to have people who support others.

I LOVE smooth jazz as well. Excellent choice! Thanks for the support and for making the Uber community great!

You’re a stud! Keep it up!

Or a dumb unprofessional attitude.

Those are actually some awesome ideas! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much! Keep up the good work yourself!

When it's early in the morning (4am-7am) I usually just shut up and drive after that I just try to gauge passenger interest.