Drive for a major Rideshare? You could be selling yourself short.
It’s no secret that major rideshare apps are a booming industry and a highly promoted job opportunity for people of all ages. With flexible hours, as well as promises of great pay and big sign-on bonuses, it’s a tempting opportunity for anyone looking for part-time work or even a full-time job.
Are rideshare companies all that meets the eye?
Are you really being paid what you’re worth?
If you find that any of the below situations apply to you, you may want to consider a switch-up.
Do you spend too much money maintaining your car?
Whether you’ve been driving for a rideshare for a long time or you’re simply picking up a lot of long-distance ride requests, you’re inevitably putting a lot of miles – and wear and tear – on your car. You may find yourself drowning in repair bills before long, and if you let these issues pile up for too long, you may even find yourself without a car; and without a job, unless you spend more money renting a car. In addition to any repair costs, you’re paying for your own gas; plus, costs for any damage that may occur to the interior of your car. You may also be seeing higher rates on your insurance bill, since you drive so many miles.
Are you having trouble making ends meet?
Between the maintenance bills mentioned above and the commission that rideshare companies tend to take out (averaging 20%), you may find that you’re barely making ends meet, especially if you’re not making great tips. A recent report claims that most rideshare drivers make only $8 per hour, and 30% of drivers actually lose money driving for a rideshare. If you’re driving for a rideshare as a full-time job, you may be losing money in the long run.
Does the Market seem saturated?
With the increasing promises for bonuses, flexible schedules and great money, the rideshare driver market is becoming saturated. With so many drivers on shift at any given time (even on “busy” nights and weekends,) it can be difficult to find rides, even in busy cities.
Do you want more out of your job?
While driving for a major rideshare app can help pay some of the bills, do you enjoy your work? Troublesome passengers or slow nights can put a damper on your professional life.
Need a switch? Try these paths instead.
If you’re Artsy – Etsy
Etsy is the biggest online marketplace for handmade goods, so if you have creative skills that you’re putting on the backburner, now is the time to get busy and make cash. The top selling items on Etsy tend to be customized painted, silkscreened, or engraved pieces, so if you have any of those skills, it may benefit you to open an Etsy shop.
If you’re a writer – Guest Blogging
If you have a passion for writing content, consider researching guest blogging opportunities to make the most out of your talent. You may find the perfect opportunity to write about what you’re interested in and make some fast cash while doing it.
If you’re not sure – Upwork
It doesn’t hurt to browse Upwork, a freelance gig platform, for gigs that pique your interest. Upwork has everything from freelance editing to graphic design gigs, so if you have a skillset in Language or Graphics that’s collecting dust, it may benefit you to browse for gig opportunities. These gigs can be short or long term, perfect to fit your schedule.
If you’re into fitness or just love your city: Pedicab Driver Tour Guide
If you’re physically fit (or trying to be) and love your city, consider giving quick rides, tours or both on a Pedicab (also called a bike taxi or cycle rickshaw.) Pedicab drivers don’t pay any upkeep or gas on their vehicles, which are leased from a Pedicab Company for a low cost. Pedicab drivers can make as much as $500 on a Friday or Saturday night; provide good customer service, and you’ll most likely get a good tip. A quick google search can find Pedicab Driver opportunities near you. Pedicab Drivers are in demand, especially in tourism hotspots. Instead of taking a cut from every ride, most Pedicab Companies will only charge a weekly or monthly lease, making things a lot easier on your end. The Pedicab Industry is also heavily tourism-based, meaning you’ll have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world every day.
If you’re feeling frustrated with your rideshare job, remember that you’re not alone, and there are additional side hustles you can take on to lessen your driving time!
