Wonolo
The growth of the e-commerce industry in recent years has fueled the rise of delivery jobs.
Data shows that in 2011 there were about 112,000 UPS drivers alone, who delivered 15.8 million packages per day.
Source: Liberty and Lark
Taking on a delivery job sounds easy. However, if it’s your first time delivering packages, it could easily be a tough job.
You need to maintain your vehicle, work well with customers, and have good people skills to impress your clients.
Needless to say, it’s a lot harder than it looks.
If you’re having a tough time trying to figure out how to ace your first delivery job, then don’t worry. We’ll tell you all about the tips and tricks you need to know below.
The first thing that you need to do is to look presentable and professional.
A driver recalled that he received better tips when he was clean-shaven. If he didn’t look his best, he got tipped about $2.00, but a clean look landed him $2.50 or $3.00.
He also found that although customers did not have an issue with beards, having a clean-shaven face usually led to younger people assuming that he was a student, too, which landed him more tips. The reason for this is that they assumed he was just like them.
Another tip is to avoid standard uniforms (unless the company you are delivering for requires one) and to dress like a customer. Wear a normal button-up shirt or the team jersey your clients would most likely root for.
2. Prepare for the Delivery
Before you start the delivery, ensure that you have enough gas and that the vehicle is in top condition. Check your gas regularly. Make sure that your vehicle can withstand the weather and can handle the mileage. For example, if your vehicle leaks fluids, you’ll spend a lot of time replacing oil or antifreeze.
Don’t forget to check that your tires are well-inflated. You don’t want them to blow out or go flat in the middle of your job.
Source: ReadyRefresh
3. Ensure the Order is in Pristine Condition and Bring Change
Before you set out, make sure that you have all the packages that are up for delivery. Check to make sure the packages are in good condition and are presentable at all times. No one wants dirt or spilled water on their package.
As a delivery driver, you’re the face of the company. Poor service leads to complaints and gets you no tips.
Don’t forget to bring spare change. Customers become unhappy if you seem unprepared.
4. Be Professional and Don’t Take Anything Personally
Customers can be rude. But that’s not an excuse for you to be rude too.
Make an effort to always respond politely. You represent your company, so an argument or insult won’t just reflect on you but on the image of the establishment you work for.
If you have a rude customer, don’t dwell on it, and shake it off. Never let your sour mood affect your service.
5. Greet Customers with a Smile
Always greet customers with a smile.
Great delivery drivers are the friendliest people in the world. They get the best tips because they’re exciting to be around.
If you look glum, customers won’t have a good impression of you or your company.
Source: Tony Costa
6. Find Great Conversation Starters
How do you start a good conversation?
Compliments are a good place to start. People love it when you compliment their homes, outfits, children, and decorations. This gets them to warm up to you.
If you’re talking to students or young people, use a casual and laid-back tone. Try to chat them up regarding their work or their studies. For example, if you’re delivering a pizza you can say, “Cool. I’ll be there in 10 minutes. Do you want to meet me outside? Is that cool with you?” After that, try to start a casual, friendly conversation by saying something like “How’s your Friday night?”
If you’re delivering to women, then an unintimidating and nurturing posture is a good plus. Chat with them in a polite manner.
Another way to find good conversation starters is to stay updated on the latest trends. Know the best sport teams, watch the latest movies, and find interesting news.
One conversation starter that really works is pets. Customers love it when you compliment their cats or poodles. Being friendly and polite around pets also helps establish good rapport. After all, if their pets love you, then you’re obviously a great person.
If you’re making repeat deliveries to some homes, don’t forget to remember people’s names and build relationships with them.
Source: thankfact
7. Dealing with Credit Card Orders
Carry a small clipboard and a pen for credit card orders.
Highlight the areas the customer should sign, and write “Thank You” on the slip. You can also attach a picture of your pet or a short message to the clipboard, and use it as a starting point for conversations.
8. Enjoy the Job
A delivery job isn’t glamorous, but you can still enjoy it.
Listen to a variety of music like pop, jazz, country, hip-hop, and dubstep. It’s okay to jam out loud, but don’t forget to put your music on mute when you arrive at the address.
Download audio books online, and listen to free podcasts. Listen to the radio or a live sporting event.
Enjoy the scenery. You can laugh, be happy, and reflect—as long as you drive safely.
How Will You Ace Your Wonolo Delivery Job?
Delivery drivers are essential in today’s e-commerce industry, so a poorly done job could lead to consumer complaints and poor ratings.
The good news is it doesn’t matter if it’s your first time on the job; you can still ace it on your first try.
Preparation is key. Check your vehicle, and ensure that all packages are in good condition. Always greet customers with a smile, and offer great service. Keep these things in mind, and you’ll be sure to ace your Wonolo delivery job!
