With the reduction in incentives and driver bonus programs, the Uber (as well as) fleets have been revolting and finding it quite difficult to maintain similar payouts as befofe. Uber, somehow, is looking to solve the problem at hand with the introduction of a ‘Driver Compliments’ feature for riders in India. It is being made available to users on both Android and iOS.
This ‘Compliments’ feature was first made available to Uber users in the U.S back in November last year. The ride-hailing giant is now looking to improve the quality of its service by providing its driver fleet with some much-needed motivation.
Now, instead of doling out just five-star ratings to its drivers operating in the limited 29 cities that Uber operates in, riders can leave a thank you note for their drivers. You can select from a range of compliments, such as expert navigation, great music choice or excellent service, that are already provided in your rider app by the ride-hailing giant.
Talking about the launch of this feature, Pradeep Parameswaran, Head, Central Operation at Uber India said:
Last month, we launched community guidelines with the objective of encouraging mutual respect and we are now excited to introduce Compliments. We hope our riders take a moment to express their appreciation by using this feature. It will encourage our driver partners to do even better!
Once your ride comes to an end, you’re served with the rating window. The same will now not only host the star ratings and allow to post compliments that are conveyed to the driver — available right inside their app. If any Uber driver receives the compliment then a notification is sent to them. The drivers can then witness their collection and take pride in their service — and if you are not receiving them then it means you’re driving or services are not being appreciated by the rider and you need to work upon them.
This is a significant feature addition for both riders and drivers but there is a possibility of abuse and hate speech from those riders, who didn’t enjoy a comfortable ride experience. The riders are usually quick to resort to helplines or social media to be able to complain about their rides. But, there had been no way to acknowledge the driver’s passion for driving with Uber and how they could make your journey a comfortable and memorable one.
