5 questions to ask before the ride

First impressions are essential, and you can make a positive one with your rider by asking a few simple questions within the first few minutes of a ride. These questions are totally optional, but they’re likely to be appreciated because they’re an indication that you’re going the extra mile to make their ride a pleasant experience.

1. Do you have a preferred route?

Whether it’s the quickest route possible or taking the long way to admire the scenery, some riders may be very particular about the directions they want to take to their destination. Be sure to ask at the start of the ride if they have a preference, and set your GPS accordingly.

2. Is the temperature OK?

The rider will be more comfortable if they aren’t too hot or too cold. You can’t control the temperature outside the car, but you can make adjustments to your air conditioning and heat. Summer or winter, make sure you ask your rider if they’re agreeable to the climate in your car.

3. Would you like to listen to something specific?

If someone is dashing to a job interview, they’re likely to want to listen to different music than they would for a night out. Music can have an impact on the mood of any rider, so ask if they have a particular radio station or playlist that they’d like to hear or if they’d rather sit back and relax in silence. If you have an adaptor, you can let them control the music directly from their phone.

4. Would you like snacks, gum, or water?

While it’s certainly not mandatory to keep snacks, gum, and water in the car for riders, many drivers offer these to make the rider’s experience more convenient and pleasurable.

5. How are you today, ________ ?

Sure, some riders may be distracted by their overflowing email inbox and influx of text messages, but anyone will like the extra attention. If it’s clear that your rider would rather not chat, take the cue and end the conversation. Pro tip: people like hearing their own name, so try and slip it into the question when you ask how they are.

These questions can help you personalize the ride—and perhaps will help you score a coveted 5-star rating.