Opening The Door

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Sometimes looking for a job means thinking outside the box. Do you enjoy driving? Do you like meeting new people? Do you find sitting in a cubicle day after day boring? Well, why don’t you give some thought to becoming a limo driver?



People need to be driven to special events like weddings, proms, anniversaries, celebrations and other special occasions. You could meet famous athletics, stars, entertainers and the rich and powerful while on the job. So what does it take to become a professional limo driver?



1. You need to have a special license to drive a limo. Each state is different so go to your DMV in your state and see what you will need. By having your license, you’re already ahead of the pack.



2. You have to have a clean driving record and excellent driving skills. You have to know how to handle the vehicle and how to drive defensively. You also have to know the driving rules and regulations. Some companies perform a background check on your credit, medical issues and see if you have any felonies. If there are any concerns in these area, make sure you mention and explain them.



3. Know how to read a map. I know there are GPS’s available but map reading is a skill that needs to be learned. Your clients don’t want to be late for their functions and they’re depending on you to get them there on time. If you’re not sure where you’re going, scope the route out before hand. You need to know the area you’re working upside down and inside out.



4. Sharpen up your communication skills. You’ll be dealing with an assortment of people. Some will want to chatter, some won’t. Knowing how to put them at ease is a big part of your job and will have them requesting you.



5. Keep your vehicle maintained. Keep it clean on the outside and the inside. You will need to purchase your own uniform since most companies don’t provide one. Find out what’s required and always look clean, neat and presentable.



Some companies that hire you will put you through a training program. They may have you drive the limo to see how you handle yourself. They will explain how to interact with their clients and give helpful tips to keep their customers coming back. Some companies have you take a basic first aid course to handle any emergencies until help would arrive.



Some limo drivers become private limo drivers. You have to have the experience, excellent reputation and work hard. You would need to have your own individual clients that you would drive. You can then set your own rates and make more money. However, you would be responsible for the upkeep and expenses of the limo and the insurances to run it. These costs would have to be considered in the overall picture.



If you’re interested in becoming a limo driver, check the limo companies in your area. Take a look-see through the Yellow Pages or the classified ads. If this is something you haven’t thought about, maybe you should.



By Linda Lee Ruzicka



Linda Lee Ruzicka lives in the mountains of Western PA , happily married and with her 8 cats and three dogs. She has been published in Twilight Times, Dark Krypt, Fables, Writing Village, June Cotner anthology, The Grit, Reminisce , the book, Haunted Encounters: Friends and Family. She also does freelances work for Beyond and Hospitalityjobsite. You can read more of her blogs on Hospitalityjobsite blog.

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