30 Taxi Drivers Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Taxi Drivers interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. What is your greatest strength? How does it help you as a taxi driver?
How to Answer
If you are unsure what your greatest strengths are, think about the things you complimented on regularly. Perhaps there are positive comments you receive on your performance reviews. These traits can be great starting points for identifying your most significant strength! If possible, try to link your response with the characteristics asked for in the job posting.
Some great strengths to mention are:
- Communicative
- Loyal
- Collaborative
- Tech Savvy
- Flexible in Schedule/Availability
- Persistent and Determined
- Eager for Knowledge/New Skills
- Concerned with Safety
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Family and friends alike have always complimented me on my sharp eye, reflexes, and quick response time. As a taxi driver, these attributes would be extremely helpful in maneuvering the vehicle in tight spots and avoiding accidents."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My greatest strength is my ability to make anyone feel comfortable in my presence. I am confident that anyone can get into my cab and feel safe, well taken care of, and secure. I see in your job posting that you are looking for taxi drivers who are personable. I believe my references will say the same of me."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2. If a passenger left something of value behind, what would you do?
How to Answer
While it's great that you're an excellent navigator or that you have a lively personality, don't forget that employers are also looking for workers with honesty and integrity. Show the interviewer that your heart is in the right place. If someone left their belongings in your cab, you'd immediately find a way to get it back to them. If there is no means of contacting the person, you will surrender the items to the nearest police station. If the cab company has their own lost and found, then that's even better. Whatever the options, be sure to show integrity in your response.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My current employer has a system for lost and missing items. The moment I find an item in my cab, I notify dispatch along with the time and a description of the items. Dispatch will then try to contact the passenger and let them know their item will be available for pickup at our office the following day. I take pride in the fact that I have never been dishonest in the workplace. My values and morals are important to me."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I would be happy to follow any protocol put forth by your company, should a passenger forget an item in my vehicle. In my current driving role, my first instinct is to contact the person by phone if I can, if they booked their ride through our app. If the person's identity were unknown, I would return the item to our office's lost and found at the end of my shift."
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. How important is the cleanliness of your vehicle?
How to Answer
A clean car offers proof that the driver is attentive to their vehicle and committed to their job. Simply put, an unclean vehicle is an indicator of neglect. As a driver, this concept makes perfect sense to you, and you should tell your interviewer so. The standards of cleanliness you use for your personal car are the same that you apply to the company vehicle. You could even mention that it makes you happy when passengers comment on how clean your cab is!
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I take pride in my cab being clean at all times. Just as a corporate professional works best with a clean office and tidy desk, I work best when my vehicle is tidy and smells nice."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Cleanliness is essential since I like to work in a comfortable space, and I want my passengers to feel welcome. I clean my car every day after work, ensuring it's ready for the next shift. Often, I have passengers compliment me on the clean state of my vehicle, and that makes me feel great."
Written by Rachelle Enns
4. What would you do if your doctor prescribed drugs to you can that could impact your driving?
How to Answer
Some medications, although legal to take, can make you an unsafe driver. The interviewer would like to know the action you would choose should you need to take any medication that could affect your ability to be safe behind the wheel. Of course, you know that safety comes before anything and that you would take time off to complete the medicinal round.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If I could not safely operate a vehicle due to medication I was taking, I would give my employer as much notice as possible. I would not want to leave my team hanging so, for that reason, I would also ask for modified work duties during that period. Perhaps I could be of help with dispatch, or in the administration office."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"It is imperative that I follow by a strong code of conduct, which includes never putting a passenger at risk. If I could not drive, due to a medication that made me tired for instance, I would ask for a short-term medical leave until the medication round was complete and I obtained a letter from my doctor, clearing me to drive."
Written by Rachelle Enns
5. Is there ever an acceptable reason to not wear a seatbelt?
How to Answer
The interviewer is checking to see that you understand the importance of seatbelt safety for both yourself and your passengers. Discuss the importance of seatbelt safety, what it means to you, and how you ensure that your customers are wearing their seatbelts.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Seatbelts reduce the risk of death by 45%. For this reason, it's imperative to me that my passengers and I are buckled up at all times. There is no reason not to wear a seatbelt."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Before putting the car into drive, I always ensure that my passengers have their seat belts buckled. It is my responsibility, as the driver, to ensure that everyone is safe before I proceed. As far as I have seen, and I've been driving for twelve years now, there is no reason not to wear a seatbelt."
Written by Rachelle Enns
6. What would you do if a passenger began to do drugs or anything illegal in your taxi?
How to Answer
This question is one that tests your morals and courage. What is most important is that the interviewer knows you'd never condone illegal behavior and will do your best to avoid such an ordeal.
Of course, the ideal action to take would be to calmly tell the passengers to step out of the vehicle before reporting it to nearby police. However, there have been cases where volatile and potentially dangerous passengers become aggressive, which is why some taxi drivers choose to stay silent. Tell the interviewer that you're mentally prepared should such a situation arise. Also, mention that if the taxi company already has a protocol for dealing with this kind of circumstance, you'd gladly follow their protocols.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I would be happy to learn more about your protocols when it comes to passengers breaking laws while on a taxi trip. My current employer asks us to stop the car and call the police; however, it is much easier to do this when you have a partition between yourself and the passengers."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"If a passenger began to do drugs or any other illegal activity in my vehicle, I would pull over and ask them to leave. Then, I would report the situation to dispatch. Is this the protocol you follow here?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
7. Do you feel that you are currently paid what you are worth?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you feel undervalued in your current role. Many employees will look for new work if they think that they are underpaid and underappreciated. Of course, this potential new employer wants to ensure that they will make you a competitive offer that will entice you to join their organization, and stay there. Talk to the interviewer about your current compensation and whether or not you feel it is fair. Be sure to have researched your answer to back you up, versus throwing out a random number and hoping it will stick.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"According to my union leader, I am slightly underpaid compared to my industry colleagues. My current taxi company is small, and they do what they can, but this is part of why I am seeking a new position."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that my current employer pays me fairly; however, I would like to see an increase in pay if given more night shifts."
Written by Rachelle Enns
8. Why is it important for you to be part of a taxi union?
How to Answer
Being part of an organization which aims to improve your industry is an indicator that you're passionate about your job. Maybe you joined the union to let your voice be heard or because you're fighting to get better benefits. Tell the recruiter your reasons for joining a taxi union and why it's important to you. Some of the benefits of a taxi union include job security, fair wages, health and life insurance, and more.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As a taxi driver, I have always been part of my local union. It's important that I have coverage and protection on the job, especially during times when we see the continual challenging of laws and legislation."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Just as nurses and teachers have their union to speak on their behalf, negotiate, and protect their wages and benefits, so should taxi drivers. Many of us are contractors which makes it more challenging to ensure we have fair treatment and full job protection. I truly appreciate what my union accomplishes on my behalf."
Written by Rachelle Enns
9. What do you think of Uber and other ride sharing programs?
How to Answer
The taxi industry and Uber have a longstanding love-hate relationship that goes as deep as Union agreements and government legislation. Regardless of what you think of ride-sharing programs, be sure to provide reasonable statements that support your opinion. Displaying to the interviewer that you've given this issue some thought shows dedication to your career as a taxi driver. Be careful not to make unsubstantiated remarks. Concentrate on the fact that you genuinely care about your job and the industry you're in, putting in the time to research and understand the issues at hand.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I understand that there have been arguments between Uber and the taxi industry. I fully believe that Uber and other rideshare programs are here to stay at this point. Passengers should be aware of the risk that comes from riding with untrained drivers. Do I believe that taking a taxi is best? Yes, I do. However, I understand that Uber can also be very convenient."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I would avoid driving with a rideshare program as I do not believe these companies protect their drivers or passengers adequately. With that said, I do understand why Millennials and Generation Z enjoy the convenience of booking through a ride-share program such as Uber."
Written by Rachelle Enns
10. How do you feel about having cameras set up in your cab?
How to Answer
If you're doing your job correctly, then this shouldn't be an issue for you. Having a dash cam or an in-cab camera is beneficial for you as they provide conclusive proof for either driving accidents or so-called problem passengers. Show the interviewer that you have nothing to hide and tell them you appreciate the lengths they take to protect their drivers.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have had cameras set up in my taxi for a couple of years now. The footage streams to a cloud account where we can retrieve the video anytime we need. These cams have helped me feel more secure in my role as a taxi driver, and I appreciate the added effort my employer puts in to protect my passengers and me, should a dispute or collision ever arise."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I love my taxi cameras so much that I recently chose to install a dash cam in my personal vehicle as well. It's a fantastic idea, and the added protection is very welcome."
Written by Rachelle Enns
11. What would you do if a passenger told you to turn off the meter and they would pay you cash for the ride?
How to Answer
If you've been a taxi driver for quite a while, then you have undoubtedly come across this situation already. Prove your integrity to the interviewer by assuring them that you would never be dishonest about a ride by accepting cash payment and not logging the trip.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Turning off the meter is against any taxi company's policy and very deceptive practice. I'd have to tell the customer politely that I can't accommodate their request. If they insist, then I have no choice but to decline them the remainder of their ride, dropping them off at the nearest safe spot."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I would never turn off my meter and accept payment for a ride, under the table. I had had a couple of passengers offer this before, to which I politely declined, and proceeded to turn on the meter. In my opinion, there is no room for dishonesty in the workplace."
Written by Rachelle Enns
12. How do you ensure your own safety, as a taxi driver?
How to Answer
As a taxi driver, you too could be put into compromising situations with strangers in your vehicle all day long. The interviewer would like to know the precautions you take to ensure your safety. Some ways that you can remain safe:
- Outfit your vehicle with a dash cam
- Never leave your car unless necessary
- In some cities, you may want a plexiglass screen installed between the front and back seat
- Hide cash from plain sight
Discuss the ways you ensure that you are safe on the job, every day.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I recently installed a dash cam into my car and feel very safe having it now. I also take other precautions such as depositing cash on a regular basis and never leaving valuables in plain sight. It's important to me that both my passengers and I are as safe and comfortable as possible."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"There are many precautions a taxi driver can take to stay safe. These include never exiting your vehicle unless it's necessary. Hiding cash, or dropping it off at the office whenever possible throughout the day. Also, I am saving to invest in a dash cam that records to the cloud, so the footage is always available, on demand and in real time. I do believe that with today's technology, it's now much safer to be a taxi driver than when I first began in this career."
Written by Rachelle Enns
13. Have you ever had road rage? If so, what triggered it?
How to Answer
Road rage would raise a serious red flag for your interviewer. A cab company can't afford customers complaining about a driver who can't control his temper. Reassure the interviewer that this won't be a problem with you. Mention that you are quite capable of handling stressful situations and that your previous employer can attest to that.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Road rage is not my style, at all. If another driver were to cut me off or be rude to me on the road, I would rather they pass me, so that I can get on with my day. Besides, acting out of rage from behind the wheel is very dangerous."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"When I was first learning to drive, I had one incident where another driver cut me off so badly that my brake assists kicked in. Full disclosure, I did honk and give him the finger. However, as time goes on, and the more driving I do, the better I can predict the actions of others on the road, and take their infractions less personally."
Written by Rachelle Enns
14. What is the safest speed, on our main highways?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you always obey the posted speed limits and that you do not come up with an excuse to speed on the highway, even when it's clear. Be sure to express the fact that the speed limit should never be broken, no matter the circumstance. You might also want to point out that, despite the speed limit being a specific rate, it is not always to safe to drive that fast.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I believe that most highways in this region have a posted speed limit of 70mph. Although that's the posted speed, it doesn't mean that is always the safest speed to go. Road conditions, construction, and congestion are all factors to keep in mind when I am driving on the highway. With that said, under no circumstances is it right for me to drive over the posted limits."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Most of the highways in this area are 70mph. I do not speed, and I always obey traffic laws. It's important that I provide my passengers with a safe ride, every time. For example, many times in the winter months, I do not even reach top highway speed. I use my discretion based on road conditions."
Written by Rachelle Enns
15. What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve it?
How to Answer
Pick weaknesses that are not a core skill for this driving position. You can be candid in your answer; recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness.
Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I would say the area I need to focus on improving would be my proficiency in the Taxi Dispatch App. I can get by, and it does not hinder my ability to do my job successfully, but it's certainly something that I need to work on improving. I recently found some online video tutorials from the app's developers and have been watching those for some assistance."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Currently my weakness would be my level of knowledge of this city. I recently moved here and am studying the road systems and names diligently. I realize that the best way to learn is to get out there and learn first hand, so I have been driving around a lot in my spare time, teaching myself the roads and shortcuts."
Written by Rachelle Enns
16. How well do you know this city?
How to Answer
Everyone likes a knowledgeable and confident taxi driver! Getting your passengers to their destination in the most convenient way possible depends on your navigation skills and familiarity with the area. The interviewer would like to know how well you can get around in the city, and surrounding areas. If you are new to the area, you should let the interviewer know this, but also follow up with some of your current knowledge about the city.
Familiarize yourself with the favorite spots where people usually hail a cab. If you know the city well enough, then impress the interviewer with your knowledge of the shortcuts and where and when heavy traffic occurs.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I know the city very well as I have lived here for 15 years. I know the West Side Market and the new Uptown District are popular spots during the day. I also am very familiar with the airport and driving in and around downtown."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I just relocated to the area about 12 months ago, but have already driven around many hours familiarizing myself with the city. With my GPS and current knowledge; I am confident I can get a passenger where they need to go, in the fastest time."
Written by Rachelle Enns
17. What is your first reaction when you do something wrong at work?
How to Answer
How you react to an error made will tell the interviewer a great deal about you and your honesty level. Perhaps the mistake is one that could land you in a lot of trouble. Would you try to hide the incident, or would you tell a supervisor right away, and have the situation rectified? Discuss how you would handle a situation when you did something wrong while on the job.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My first reaction when I do something wrong at work is to own it. How can anything be repaired if nobody even has a chance to fix it on time? That would be my line of thinking if a mistake were to occur."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am hard on myself so when I do something wrong or make a mistake. If I make an error, the first thing I would do is research how to fix it. I am independent and smart, so I know that I could repair any damage very quickly."
Written by Rachelle Enns
18. Are you sure that you can handle the physical requirements of this role?
How to Answer
As a taxi driver, you will be required to perform some physically demanding tasks such as sitting for long periods and lifting luggage in and out of the back of your vehicle. You may even need to help an elderly or disabled person in and out of your car. Assure the interviewer that you can handle the physical requirements associated with being a taxi driver.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have been driving a taxi for about two years now, and have not experienced any physical task to be an issue. I am sure to stretch my legs as often as possible. Also, I work out on my days off, to ensure I stay in good shape."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I do need to take stretches now and then so, between passengers, I may step out of my vehicle and do a couple of leg and back stretches. It's important that I keep my circulation going! These breaks also help a great deal with keeping me wide awake and energetic during my shift."
Written by Rachelle Enns
19. Which parts of your current driving position brings you the most stress?
How to Answer
Stress can often be a regular part of the day to day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. (IE: a taxi driver should not find driving to be the most stressful part of the job)
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my teams part, or disorganization by dispatch. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my passengers are taken care of."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Overall, I do not have a lot of stress in my day; however, when I am asked to pick up belligerent or drunk customers, I do find that stressful. For that reason, I try to take shifts earlier in the day, and on weekdays. Routes to and from the airport have also been a great workaround for me."
Written by Rachelle Enns
20. Have you ever been in a car accident, while on the job? If so, was the accident your fault?
How to Answer
If you've never been in an accident before, then that's great! If you have, then be honest about it. The interviewer is going to check your driving record, regardless; so, lying about it might cost you the job. Whether it was your fault or not, talk to the interviewer about the accident, what caused it, and the measures you take to avoid another incident like that. To end your response on a positive note, tell the interviewer that the accident has made you a more careful, attentive, and responsible driver.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I was in a fender-bender about four months ago that was deemed to be the other drivers' fault. I stopped at a red light, and he was on his phone, not paying attention, and rear-ended me. I had a passenger in the car at the time, and so I made sure to report everything as per my employers' requirements. The accident is on my employee record, but documented as not being my fault."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Thankfully, I have never been in an accident, on or off the job. I am a careful driver, always keeping my head on a swivel. I abide by distracted driving laws at all times and take the rules of the road seriously. After all, my passengers must feel safe in my car!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
21. Do you have your own insurance?
How to Answer
Depending on the region which you are applying, you may be required to carry insurance on your car, and as a business operator. Be sure to check the laws and regulations in your area. Also, if your city offers a taxi union, you can go to the union and ask for information on the requirements and current legislation.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I understand that full insurance is a requirement before reporting to work as a taxi driver. I brought my required paperwork, and proof of insurance with me, today. You are welcome to take a copy of everything for your records."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Just this week I contacted the local union, and they walked me through the steps I need to take to ensure that I am fully covered and insured. I am aware of these requirements and will have everything in order before my first day of work."
Written by Rachelle Enns
22. Would you be willing to work night shifts, or change your hours at short notice?
How to Answer
The hiring authority is trying to gauge your flexibility and dedication to the job. Be honest about your stance on work-life balance, but keep in mind that you need to prove your worth at this point, as long as conditions are reasonable of course. Discuss any limitations you have but be sure to end on a positive note by telling the interviewer what you can do, versus focusing on what you cannot do.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I'm reasonably flexible, and if business needs are such that it would be necessary for me to work evenings or change shifts with another driver, I am certainly prepared to do so. I understand that extended hours may be required on holidays such as New Years' Eve as well."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"At this point, working a lot of evenings does not suit my family and our needs. In my current role, I take one to two evening shifts per week, which is what I am willing to continue doing. I will always have my team's back and am happy to cover for another driver in the case of an emergency."
Written by Rachelle Enns
23. Do you manage your time well?
How to Answer
Interviewers want to hear that you are working wisely and not wasting much time during the day. They are paying you to do a job after all. Think about the ways that you control your time during the day. Do you plan out your day in advance? How do you keep track of your clients' schedules? Share 2-3 things that you do to manage your time to ensure your productivity every day.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I enjoy planning and organizing my day. Knowing what my schedule looks like before the day begins, is one way I manage my time. I also make sure to know the routes in our city very well, to optimize ride times. Lastly, I have training in how to use our taxi app so that I can respond to ride requests faster."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Managing my time well means ensuring that I can get the most amount of rides in per day while still being safe. I am well-organized and know what my day ahead looks like, even before I begin work. It's important to me that I use the tools given to me, to optimize my time as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns
24. Would you consider yourself a dependable driver?
How to Answer
Your job requires you to transport people safely from one place to another so your answer to this should be a confident 'Yes!' Besides that, it's also your responsibility to arrive at the agreed pick-up point on time, so it's best to mention that you're punctual and good at understanding directions and GPS. Don't forget to throw in positive feedback from your previous clients or employer to impress the hiring authority.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my three years as a driver in this city I have never had an accident. My full understanding of this city, it's quadrants, and street names help to ensure that I am prompt for my customers and that I get them where they need to go, exactly on time. I do consider myself to be highly dependable and when you call my references, they will surely agree."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"To be dependable and reliable are some of the most important characteristics of a taxi driver. My current employer has thanked me many times for being reliable, on time, and present every day. My customers have left me many compliments, so that makes me proud. When someone calls for a ride, it's up to me to get them where they need to go, safely and on time. I take that seriously!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
25. Why did you choose to become a taxi driver?
How to Answer
You can answer this question from a more personal perspective to allow the interviewer to get to know you a bit better. Perhaps you looked up to your uncle who was a skilled truck driver, or maybe you enjoy being in the driver's seat. Talk to the interviewer about your passion for a driving-related career. As the interviewer knows, most of the time, people who genuinely love their jobs are great at it and perform consistently as model employees.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Driving has always been a passion for me as it allows me to see and meet new people. I feel at ease driving passengers to their destinations. It is an enjoyable career, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a taxi driver."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"After spending fifteen years on the road as a long-haul truck driver, I decided to look for a career that kept me closer to home but still incorporated driving for a living. Through research, I read how fulfilling a career as a taxi driver can be. This career change gives me the opportunity to dial down the amount of time I am away from my family. I can set my schedule for the most part, and still earn a good living."
Written by Rachelle Enns
26. Have you ever missed work, for an unexcused reason?
How to Answer
You're not superman, and the interviewer doesn't expect you never to miss a day of work your entire life. They're just making sure that you don't have any attendance issues and that you know how to provide notification when you can't come to work. Assure the interviewer that you are responsible when it comes to reporting absences well ahead of time. Show that when unexpected circumstances arise, you know how to adequately cover your bases so that your employer and co-workers are not left hanging.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In over five years as a cab driver, I can say that I've rarely missed work. Of course, there were times that I had to call in sick. In those instances, I make sure to cover my shift. Once, I had to cut my day short to attend to a family emergency. I respect my boss and value our relationship which is why I always make sure to give him a heads-up and a timeline on my return."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"When you call my references you will hear that I am incredibly responsible, always 10 minutes early for work, willing to work late on peak evenings, and ready to jump in to help a colleague. I have never missed work for an unexcused reason, and am sure to communicate very well with my dispatch team."
Written by Rachelle Enns
27. If a customer was screaming at you because you made a wrong turn, how would you handle the situation?
How to Answer
Your future employer is already aware that instances like this can be unavoidable. They want to know that you're level-headed enough to deal with the situation in a professional manner. Walk the hiring authority through the action you would take should you make a wrong turn, inconveniencing a passenger.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If I took a wrong turn and angered a passenger, I'd sincerely apologize for my mistake and do my best to improve the situation. I have always been professional in my duties, and I don't take it personally when a customer takes out their frustration on me."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"To scream at me would never be acceptable; however, I would still apologize for my mistake. If my GPS were not taking the passenger the way they wanted to go, I would ask them to provide me with their preferred route. Sometimes a passenger will have a preferred route, even if it may not be the fastest, and I fully understand that. If the passenger were incessantly angry, I would offer to drop them off sooner and reimburse their ride."
Written by Rachelle Enns
28. How patient of a person are you?
How to Answer
Being a taxi driver requires a lot of patience. You should be well prepared to deal with heavy traffic, unruly passengers, pesky pedestrians, wrong directions, and much more. If you are an experienced taxi driver, show the interviewer that you've developed a strategy to stay calm and focused despite all the negative energy around you. If you are new to your career as a taxi driver, express your ability to remain upbeat, patient, and calm. These are all characteristics a hiring authority will look for in a driver.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am very patient as I have learned that impatience causes more stress in life. If a patron says they are in a hurry, I will apologize to them and reassure them safety is my number one priority and I will get them to their destination in a timely yet safe manner."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I have had my patience tried many times, through my life and my career. I am naturally a calm person who can keep cool under pressure. My ability to remain positive and energetic, through any trial, will make me an excellent driver."
Written by Rachelle Enns
29. How have you dealt with irate customers in the past?
How to Answer
When you work in customer service, you will often come across rude individuals. And, for one reason or another, it's passengers often find it easier to be rude to a taxi driver. Perhaps it's because you're usually picking people up from a night out after they've had a few cocktails. It's the name of the taxi driver game, unfortunately. Seeing as it's unavoidable, the interviewer wants to know that you can handle such a situation with professionalism. Give an example of a time that you had to deal with a challenging customer situation. Be sure to include the positive outcome.
Some ways that you can efficiently handle a rude customer:
- Remain kind, polite, and pleasant
- Actively listen to their grievances
- Apologize for the situation
- Maintain a neutral tone of voice
- Avoid taking anything they say, personally
Assure the interviewer that through previous experience, you've learned not to take things personally and that you focus on doing your job.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I'm not bothered anymore by rude or angry passengers. My experience as a cab driver in a heavily-populated area has taught me how to deal with frustrations brought about by traffic, the rush hour, personal emergencies, or intoxication."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"When I first began as a taxi driver, I had to take most of the night shifts. I have seen and heard it all from very rude passengers. I have thick skin when it comes to customers. This resilience to rude allows me to remain calm kind, and polite while they unload their feelings. Also, it's amazing what a warm smile will solve when a customer is rude to your face. Try it - it's nearly impossible to be mean to someone who is smiling at you!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
30. How clean is your driving record?
How to Answer
A driving record contains in-depth documentation of your driving history and will hugely affect the interviewer's decision to hire you. It serves as an indicator of your responsibility not only as a driver but as an employee. In many jobs, employers prefer candidates with a clean driving background. Obtain a copy of your driving record before the interview, if possible. Then, you can offer the interviewer a copy for your candidate record.
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My driving record is spotless as I have had no accidents and I believe my last speeding ticket was over five years ago. I obtained a copy from the DMV that you are welcome to keep for my file."
Written by Ryan Brown on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I do have one accident on my record, from three years ago. Unfortunately, another car pulled out in front of me, without enough reaction time to avoid an accident. Since then, I have had no accidents or speeding tickets. I take pride in my safe driving record and look forward to more years of safe driving with your company."
Written by Rachelle Enns