RIDEGURU
This pretty much summarizes it. A quote from Josh Mohrer, Uber's New York City general manager. This is what he said when the tipping was released in 2016.
"Nothing has changed, as we've said for many years, being Uber means you don't need to tip. Of course, if you want to tip your driver—we estimate riders offer tips on only a very small number of trips—you’re free to do so, and drivers are free to accept."
Comments
Saying that tipping increases uncertainty seems a non-sequitor to me.
The concept that tipping will draw drivers to affluent or business neighbourhoods is only going to apply to the first ride. After that, where the driver is comes down to chance. Just like chasing the surge is a waste if time, so is going to a specific location while off line.
Yeah, I may drive towards specific hotspots, but the chance for a tip is not going to change my choice. At any rate I don't go off line to drive there and I rarely get there as I usually get another ride first.
Going off line to drive to a specific location makes no sense as it is just a way of guaranteeing non-paying drive time.
This is the summary of what it says in the aforementioned Inc. article.
Tipping causes uncertainty
Tipping creates uncertainty about ride costs and driver wages, according to Uber. “We felt it would be better for riders and drivers to know for sure what they would pay or earn on each trip -- without the uncertainty of tipping,” reads the statement. Surge pricing and decreases in the per-mile driver payment rate mean wages are already uncertain.
Tipping shifts ride access
In the Medium post, Uber says it fears a tipping button would encourage drivers to spend more time in neighborhoods where riders give more generous tips, which could lead to higher concentrations of cars in wealthier neighborhoods and central business districts.
Tipping isn’t fair
Uber argues that the general practice of tipping in the service industry does not improve service and that tips are unfairly impacted by the prejudices of customers. It’s a fair …
Read more...
This is the summary of what it says in the aforementioned Inc. article.
Tipping causes uncertainty
Tipping creates uncertainty about ride costs and driver wages, according to Uber. “We felt it would be better for riders and drivers to know for sure what they would pay or earn on each trip -- without the uncertainty of tipping,” reads the statement. Surge pricing and decreases in the per-mile driver payment rate mean wages are already uncertain.
Tipping shifts ride access
In the Medium post, Uber says it fears a tipping button would encourage drivers to spend more time in neighborhoods where riders give more generous tips, which could lead to higher concentrations of cars in wealthier neighborhoods and central business districts.
Tipping isn’t fair
Uber argues that the general practice of tipping in the service industry does not improve service and that tips are unfairly impacted by the prejudices of customers. It’s a fair argument, and there are studies to prove the points, including one Uber cites from Cornell University. But for all the faults of tipping, service workers depend on tips, as the attorney for Uber drivers in the recent settlement pointed out to The Verge.
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Yeah tipping causes uncertainty, not much different from surge pricing, etc. All prices are dynamic, and while surge can increase your ride price by $20 or more, tips are only a fraction of that cost. If you're too damn broke that a buck or two will break you, you probably need to look into catching a bus or walking.
Does tipping shift ride access? If peoples decision to call for an Uber was influenced by tipping that argument could be made, however 90%+ of riders don't even care if their driver end up penniless as long as they get to their destination and have enough to buy their morning coffee. (plus tip for the barista)
Is tipping fair if it doesn't improve service? The question I'd ask is is it fair to not pay your driver fairly? If you want to make it cheaper for riders, please just don't follow the general Uber practice of shifting the cost for your drivers to absorb.
The fix for Uber isn't too hard...
Require ALL employees, including executives, board members and customer service personnel, to drive a minimum of one 8 hour shift per week. (or minimum of 30 trips, including at least two hrs during rush) Only then will they understand what it means to sit in our seats, and maybe gain come compassion for the harships caused by their bullshit policies.
Want to fix driver issues? Give us access to live 24/7/365 driver assistance, and ALLOW US TO RATE THEM with the same bullshit 5 star system. It's the only way customer service will quit screwing us whiel kissing customer ass. (Semi annual driver ratings of executives would also work magnificently)
Alternately, tie all executive compensation to average driver earnings and/or retention numbers. Make drivers a priority for them rather than us just being viewed as disposable pawns.
I have always tipped the drivers. They're all grown up they understand the difference. But I have had such bad experiences lately. I don't want to use them at all. The issue - no shows. Then Uber turns around and bills me for it. Good way to cost yourself.siness.Uber.