Tips have always been present in the service industry, although different rules govern them in every domain and culture. Why would ridesharing be an exception? Of course, it’s not – but it is indeed a little different from, say, hospitality.

Tipping has been available straight from the Uber rider app for years, but many drivers have yet to take full advantage of this functionality. Ever wondered why?

Tips aren’t easy money in the digital age.

All it takes is a light tap on the screen – it sounds very straightforward, right? However, that little touch of a button requires a much more calculated decision than simply refusing the loose change after having already paid with cash. Therefore, you need to make an extra effort to earn a tip in this new cashless era.

Check out these five tricks that will help you earn more tips with Uber.

1. Ask which route to take

It’s small things like this that do wonders – to your wallet as well as your rating. A good satnav and an experienced driver make a team that’s hard to beat if you want the quickest route, but people simply appreciate the gesture. You may also do yourself a favour if you get things straight the moment you pick up your rider, as it’s quite awkward when you miss a turn because they tell you too late.

2. See about the sugar cravings

The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach. That’s especially true for people who are a bit stressed or in a hurry. And let’s face it, most of your weekday clients are at least one of the two, if not both at the same time. Also, your nighttime passengers will appreciate a nice snack for entirely different reasons. If you think about it, something sweet has never ruined anyone’s weekend either. In fact, is there really a bad time for a treat?!

Go out and fill up your car with goodies before your next ride and see the difference for yourself.

3. Keep your car tidy

This goes without saying – or so you would think. It’s a very easily overlooked aspect, and many drivers don’t pay as much attention to this as they should. However, you can use this to your advantage and stand out from the crowd if you always keep your car spotless.

Rather than sticking to a tight schedule, tidy up your car whenever needed. For example, vacuuming your car every weekend may be enough most of the time, but it may need some spot-cleaning during the week if you’ve had a couple of busy days. Check the floor and the back seat every time you take a break. Also consider buying a small cordless vacuum cleaner and always keep some wet-wipes at hand.

4. Turn up the beats!

Or down… Music is a powerful tool that can work for or against you. The keyword to remember is moderation. Turn down the volume when picking up and dropping off your riders, and when you turn it back up again, keep it at a comfortable level. As a rule of thumb, if either of you has to speak up even a little to hear each other clearly, it’s too loud.

Moderation goes for the genre too, not just the volume. You can’t go wrong with subtle instrumental music, but most people don’t mind something more upbeat either as long as it doesn’t have too outspoken or offensive lyrics. It’s a balancing act, but you don’t have to be a mind reader to nail it. It’s fine to ask your clients if they like the music that’s playing, or if they’re comfortable with the volume. It can also be a good icebreaker.

5. Keep an eye on the temperature

Again, very easily overlooked, for a very simple reason – you get comfortable in your car. However, your passengers are most likely dressed for the outside temperature, so they may experience a sudden change.

When it’s cold outside, expect your riders to be dressed warm and keep your thermostat just a couple degrees above the outside temperature. The same goes when it’s warm and humid outside – set the AC just a few degrees warmer, on a constant, low fan speed. You can always ask your clients if they’d like you to turn it up, but most people will be comfortable with these moderate settings.

How can Splend help you get more tips?

We’re determined to help you earn as many tips as possible, and with Splend you have a couple of aces up your sleeve when it comes to impressing your riders.

Let the car do the heavy lifting

You may be the best chauffeur in the world, if your car is not up to standard, chances are slim that you’ll make a lot of money from tips. It’s too difficult to stay competitive with an old car, regardless of how well you’ve looked after it. Other than the new-car feel and modern styling, new models are also packed with the latest tech for a safer ride and a more pleasant overall experience.

That’s why we offer only new-model Uber cars, and always choose the models best suited for passenger transport. Whatever model you choose, you can expect a sizable luggage space and a roomy interior.

Customer benefits beyond the wheel

We’re constantly working on bringing you the best customer benefits including car wash discounts to keep your car shiny. Ask your Customer Specialist about the list of currently available benefits.

About Splend

Splend is more than a set of wheels. We’ll help steer your career.

In addition to providing you with the most important tool in your career as a rideshare driver, we also offer ongoing training, support, and data-driven feedback via your personal Customer Specialist. You also enjoy a growing array of customer benefits including discounts from our partners.

For more information about Splend, drop by our London Hub at 393 Edgware Road Cricklewood, London,  email us, or say hello on 0333 016 4331