If you run your own taxi service, whether it is as a sole trader using one vehicle or if you have a fleet of cabs, you will no doubt have to compete with a number of competitors in your area. So, what sorts of things do customers require most from a taxi business?
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Clean Vehicles
When a customer sees your vehicle approaching it is important that it is clean on the outside as first impressions count. Depending upon how many miles you drive each day, this may mean that you need to either wash it yourself or get someone to do it for you on a daily basis. It may be tempting to put off having your taxi washed on a regular basis but not doing so may result in you losing much needed business.
Obviously, the interior also needs to be kept spotlessly clean. This includes making sure that the floors are vacuumed, the seating is clean and the windows nicely polished and the interior smells delightful.
Remember, if your customer is comfortable at being driven around in your vehicle because it is spotlessly clean not only will he or she hopefully consider using your taxi service again but they may also recommend you to friends and family thus generating more income for you.
Reliability
If you are contacted by a customer then you should endeavor to deal with their enquiry promptly. If you are unavailable and they leave a message then you should get back in touch with them as soon as possible.
Make sure that you arrive on time to pick up your customer – get there a few minutes early if possible. If they have pre-booked say an airport transfer a few days/weeks in advance then make sure that you confirm a booking say 24/48 hours before the date and time you are to pick them up and send them a text about 30/60 minutes before you are scheduled to arrive to give them peace of mind.
Pricing
Make sure that you are competitively priced as it is very easy for a customer to switch allegiances from you to another Hull taxi firm. It may be tempting to add a few pounds when quoting for a long-distance airport transfer but you may lose the business.
Friendly, Professional and Polite Staff
It is important that you and your staff are professional, polite and friendly at all times throughout the process from receiving the initial enquiry to picking up and driving the customer to their destination in a safe manner. There will be some customers who do not want to enter into a discussion whilst being transported but there are others who will welcome having a chat. Remember-first impressions count.