LIFT SHARING ETIQUETTE
From a LiftShare veteran
Car sharing is a brilliant way to save money, reduce your carbon impact and even build new friendships and connections. If you’re interested in trying it out but are not sure where to start, we’ve called upon a car sharing veteran to help get you car sharing like a pro!
MEET JOHN, OUR LIFTSHARE VETERAN
John has been car sharing with Liftshare for over a year and regularly commutes with a small group for a daily 50-mile round trip. Here are his top tips and tricks to get into gear with car sharing:
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01. MAKE A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION
Good communication is key to new friendships, and the same can be said for new Liftsharers! Get off on the right foot by ensuring you’re staying in touch with your Liftshare partner up until you meet.
“If you are someone who is often late, set your alarm ten minutes earlier. You've just got to be honest and as empathetic as possible. Once you're in a routine and your relationship is sound (after the first few weeks) things will be easier, but in the first few weeks I would aim to be 5 minutes earlier than you have said!”
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02. DESIGNATED DRIVERS, PREP YOUR RIDE!
Ready to take the wheel and meet your car share partner? Ensure your vehicle is in tip top condition.
”Like you would tidy before expecting guests at home, it’s good to pick people up in a clean car. It goes without saying that you need to ensure it is safe, fully insured and road worthy, too.”
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03. FIND WAYS TO MAKE MEETING UP EASIER
When meeting for the first time, consider your pick-up point. Are you meeting each other half-way, is the driver needing to take a difficult route to get to you?
”A two-minute walk might save your driver ten minutes in a traffic jam. Checking and communicating through Google Maps might be a way forward before and during the journey.”
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04. GET CHATTING
Meeting your first Liftshare partner can make you nervous, but often the feelings are mutual and all it takes is a bit of common ground to break the ice!
“I’ve found that just being ready to listen and find common interests is a great way to get conversation going. My daughter was able to get a dog walking job from one of my lift share partners so it goes to show you can build good friendships once you get past the small talk.”
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05. TAKE A BREAK IF YOU NEED TO
Remember that you still need to put yourself first. Notifying your sharer of holidays and time off will help transparency in the partnership.
”Sometimes you might just want a break from lift sharing and need a bit of time for yourself. For the model to work in the long term you have to always allow for everyone's needs and sometimes, this is space. Don't take it personally if people want a break for a day or even longer. Remember, there's always positives to be found!”
Think you’re ready to give car sharing a go?
Join the 700,000 people already car sharing up and down the country with Liftshare! It’s quick and easy to sign up and start your car sharing journey.
Find out more on the Liftshare website.