First Impressions

Imagine you book a chauffeur driven car to the airport. A nice vehicle arrives at your house, a smart driver gets out, they light a cigarette, walk across your lawn and hammer on your door. Would you be impressed?

In my last blog I wrote about the legalities of private hire and what tools a Chauffeur requires. In the real world there is so much more than just having a nice car and being legal. For a start it is important to get the basics right – dress smart, wear a tie, arrive early, be polite, give a firm hand shake, be prepared to wait, help the customer with any luggage and ensure you create the right impression.

As a Chauffeur your job is so much more than to drive. You need to gauge the passenger and any desire for conversation. Do they prefer a front seat or do they prefer the rear of the car? If they prefer the rear, the arm rest should be down, the front seat moved forward and the rear-view mirror slightly adjusted so the driver can make eye contact with the passenger. 

Be aware the client could be attending a meeting, hospital appointment, interview or anything that could cause them to feel nervous. Being in a car with a driver you don’t know can sometimes add to the tension. The Chauffeur’s job is to calm the passenger, make them feel at ease and help them relax.

Now suppose the car arrives outside your home six minutes early, the driver parks neatly, walks along your path, knocks lightly on your door and simply asks if they can take your luggage while they wait for you? Would that be better?