If you’re only using Uber as a rider, you’re missing a key economic opportunity.
This story is sponsored by Uber to help give direct insight from a female driver-partner.
Last summer my car died a horrible death, which led to my girlfriend introducing me to Uber ride share. From that night, I fell in love with pulling out my phone, a couple of touches and in a few minutes a car would pull up. Uber is evolving the way the world moves — by seamlessly connecting riders to drivers through their app.
I’ve heard a lot about Uber since, especially the fact that women are seeing this as an economic opportunity to earn extra income or start a side hustle. I’ve always been curiously amazed at this new innovation, that accommodates my need for not traveling with cash. If you know me, then you know I’m always inclined to ask questions. So when I had the opportunity to interview an Uber driver-partner this was my chance.
Suzanne Smart is a working actress from Jersey City, who drives on the Uber platform. Today, I’m sharing Suzanne’s story and experiences of how Uber has allowed her to take control of her life and finances to live her dream.
Suzanne was first introduced to Uber by her niece and then inspired by another female driver-partner to sign up herself. “I first fell in love with Uber because there was no need to worry about the exchange of cash,” she shared, as she recalls a horrible experience with a traditional Uber alternative.
After raising her son as a single mom, Uber is giving Suzanne the flexibility to focus on this phase of her life, now that her son (a United States Marine) is grown up. “Uber gives me the flexibility to do what I love,” said Suzanne. “Being an Uber driver-partner helps me to sharpen my people skills as an actor. I’m able to make new personal and professional connections, and every fare is a little mini improv. I set my own schedule, and don’t have to ask for time off to make my auditions. All I have to do is just turn off my app. I might even accept a ride on my way to my destination,” she added.
Suzanne who is filled with an abundance of wit and smarts seemed pretty empowered as a driver on the Uber platform. At a time when Suzanne was car-less and her credit rating on life support…Suzanne was approved both as a driver-partner and also for financing for her small SUV that she affectionately calls ‘Little Miss Cocoa.’ And when a rider hops into Little Miss Cocoa, Suzanne greets them with what she calls “Suzanne’s Uber Treats,” along with a bottle of water.
“I feel a strong responsibility as an Uber ambassador,” she said. “The autonomy Uber provides, is key when you’re seeking to follow your entrepreneurial path. Uber helps to give you stability, and the confidence to determine how much you would like to make. Uber allows me to give 5-star service on both sides of the screen.”
“I don’t handle cash as all payments are electronic, and the system tracks all riders and their driver-partner. Uber comes with that extra measure of comfort,” Suzanne confidently expressed. In fact, she likes to drive during the late hours, as it makes her female riders feel safer when they see her pull up.
My conversation with Suzanne was an eye-opener, dispelling a lot of myths associated with being a female Uber driver-partner. Thank you Suzanne for taking the time to share your story and experiences, of how Uber is opening up more possibilities for riders and business for female driver-partners like you!
So, you’ve heard it here! Whether you’re already an Uber rider or not, and are flirting with the idea go ahead and SIGN UP! Use that time when the kids are at school or when you have some gap before your next meeting to make some extra money to pay the bills, to help fund your 2016 goals or your small business.
Also, be sure to catch Suzanne in “Madoff” airing on ABC, and in the new season of “Daredevil” to be released on Netflix on March 18th.
