Uber has become famous as a rival to taxi
companies and a way for millions of people to earn extra money driving on the
side. To earn a living through Uber, most drivers need to pick up fifty to a
hundred rides a week. Uber drivers who turn this part-time gig into a
profitable business minimise their costs and maximise their income. And a few
are able to promote another product or service to their Uber riders.
Companies like
TopTests (toptests.co.uk) offer free practice driving theory
tests for those who want to start driving for extra income.
Maximising Uber Income
Drivers position themselves to maximise
their income by taking advantage of surge pricing, where fares can triple.
Ironically, you can make more money by ignoring Uber's texts saying 'go to this
location where demand is high' since so many Uber drivers go there in response to the text messages. While the first people to
arrive there may still receive the surge pricing rates, as more drivers arrive,
the rates will decrease and you'll make less money. Learn when the bars in your
area close, because there is usually significant demand by patrons too drunk to
drive home and relatively few drivers in the early morning to take these
customers.
Making Extra Money from a Side
Business While Driving for Uber
Uber entrepreneurs are developing new ways to monetize Uber, such as
using their cars as a showcase for jewellery they sell or promoting beauty
products to their riders during the ride. You cannot hard sell to riders or
else risk bad reviews and being removed from Uber. Instead, you can position
items you sell throughout the vehicle, give subtle hints in conversation and
then talk about it if they ask about it.
Upsell to Customers
You have five to twenty-five minutes to interact with someone who could have a deep
conversation about the product, instead of the few seconds you have if you try
to sell door to door. Uber spokeswoman Kristin Carvell said this isn't
something Uber is opposed to since their
platform is intended to provide an opportunity
to a variety of drivers.
As long as riders are happy, it is fine.
This means you should not solicit to disinterested riders or on the phone. In
order to avoid receiving bad reviews, you need to talk to customers and
understand their needs; an Uber entrepreneur must engage with them by asking
questions. Find out what their interests are, and as appropriate, lead into the
product or service. Remember to carry business cards and give them to those who
are interested, since these Uber customers could buy items from you later.
Uber drivers
save money by finding a central, urban location and staying there until fares
pop up. Don't waste time and money driving around hoping for a fare, and unless
you're the first on the scene, ignore Uber's recommendations on where to pick
up fares. Plan to drive when demand is highest. If you can make the ride more
entertaining, you could earn more in tips or promote an entertainment side
business in the process. Always carry business cards for those who request
them.