What’s the difference between a good Lyft ride and a great one? We asked your local and national Driver Advisory Council members to clue us in on how they give excellent service — and get excellent tips. What we learned: A little hospitality goes a long way.

Prep your car

“Cleaning the car every morning and having a huge selection of music playlists adds to the pleasant experience.” - Frankie, San Jose

Frankie, San Jose

Nail the first impression

“When guests get into my car I greet them with a smile, a positive welcome, and a quick introduction to my car. Then, reading their expression and attitude, I either leave them be or continue a conversation.” - Austin, Richmond “I always greet my passengers by name before they get in the car or when they get in the car.” - David, Lexington “Ask for their name, identify the route, and ask if they have a preferred route — that’s huge. Opening the doors and assisting with heavy luggage shows that we care! And dressing to impress and being well groomed invites gratuity.” - Frankie, San Jose

Match their vibe

“I mostly drive business people to and from work. They are not very talkative in the morning and prefer to have time to work in the car, either on a laptop or on their phone. They appreciate a quiet, clean ride.” - Kalyn, Denver “If passengers are tourists, I often recommend museums, picnic spots, or my favorite place for breakfast. I try to keep up on the events in the city and I answer their questions about the area.” - Brendah, San Francisco “I try to be conscious of the details. Whether it's the temperature of the car, or the volume/nature of music playing in the background, being aware and attentive to passenger needs ensures the best experience possible.” - Stephanie, Philadelphia

Stephanie, Philadelphia

Be yourself

“I decorate my car for every holiday or season which typically is a great way to start a conversation and that usually makes people smile. I actually have an Instagram now for my car and have been featured on many other people’s Instagram’s as well.” - Mary, Denver

Mary’s car, decorated for summer

“I love giving tours of the city and advising passengers of great night spots, shopping, or local sights. The night crowd is always entertained by the LEDs under my seats!” - Ariana, Detroit

Leave them with a smile

“What sets me apart from other drivers is my level of comfortability. Riding with me keeps the original spirit of Lyft alive. It’s truly like catching a ride with your friend. I honestly don’t offer anything special in my ride, no water, gum or candy. Passengers just get me, my conversation, and my hospitality! I try to make meaningful connections with people which I think leave my passengers feeling part of the community. It’s how I have always managed my ride and based on my ratings, it seems to work!” - Cherida, Bakersfield

Cherida, Bakersfield

“I ask about their weekends. I never talk about work because when I’m getting off of work that’s the last thing I want to talk about! Talk about vacations that you’ve taken and what they plan on doing for one. Also I like to talk about food, the one thing almost everybody loves!” - Arian, San Francisco “I’m always working to provide great customer service. I’m positive and I know how to create natural conversation. Not forced conversations. People can notice the difference.” - Donta, Philadelphia

Above all, be safe

“Have knowledge of the city roads and always put safety first.” - Troy, San Francisco “A great Lyft driver always puts safety first. Drive with a purpose and be mindful. What that means is to always pick up and drop-off in a safe location, even if it means driving around the block.” - Frankie, San Jose “Make sure you know the terms of service and state laws. Don't take risks just to make a quick buck. Follow the rides, as they come, and the money will follow.” - Ariana, Detroit

Ariana, Detroit

“Being a great Lyft driver means helping people arrive at their next destination safe and sound. Providing a comfortable and relaxing ride means a lot to passengers. Knowing that it’s safe to look down at their phone, with no worries while the driver drives, means the world to passengers.” - Donta, Philadelphia

What pro tips have you learned while driving? Tell us at lyft.com/stories for a chance to be featured.

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