Now, you may be thinking – what’s the big deal between limousine drivers and other drivers, anyway? The answer is – a lot. It is true that limousine drivers should have the same skills as say, taxi drivers, particularly when it comes to knowing the routes, destinations and shortcuts. However, the job of a limousine driver is more than that, requiring more skill sets than average.

Being the driver of a luxury vehicle as well as a vehicle that is commonly regarded with awe and is used mostly for special occasions comes with quite some responsibility.

First, since customers paid a premium price to ride a limo, they expect premium service. First is punctuality. Do come early. While being late in a regular office job may be tolerated from time to time, being on time is a stricter requirement for limousine drivers. When you are late, your passenger will also be late for his/her destination. And if your passenger is rushing to catch a flight, being early is serious business.

Also important is knowing the routes by heart, particularly the route to your customer’s destination. Getting you and your passenger lost can ruin an otherwise special experience. In addition, you need to get your passenger to his/her destination on time despite traffic jams, roadblocks and any other inconveniences that may come your way. You can actually invest on a GPRS device to help you plan the best route to take so as to avoid delays.

You also need to hone your people skills if you want to be a great limousine driver. Be sensitive to your passenger’s needs – for example, does he/she need a good conversation or does he/she prefers to be left alone? Be aware of what is the best action in a given situation, the do it.

Also, a smile and a warm welcome go a long way in almost any situation.

To build rapport with your passenger, put yourself in his/her shoes: Is he/she tired from a flight? Is he/she in a hurry? Is he/she bored? Is he/she happy? Does he/she need someone to talk to? Knowing where your customer is coming from will help you understand him/her better and allow you to give him/her the best service.

For example, if he/she is tired, it may be best to give the person some privacy, unless he/she strikes up a conversation with you. If he/she needs someone to talk to, listen…really, listen. Then offer advice when asked.

Remember also, especially for first-time limo passengers, that they expect to have a memorable experience. Help that happen by being sincerely concerned about their enjoyment and making sure that they enjoy.

If there is only one piece of information here that you will bring home with you, it is that the customer, who paid a premium price expects premium service. Always keep that in mind when you deal with the person. Aim to do what it takes in your job to give him/her the best, most enjoyable experience.