If you’re a people person and you like driving luxury cars, being a chauffeur might be the job for you. A chauffeur is a professional driver whose job it is to transport clients in vans, limousines and cars; as a chauffeur, your client base would likely include government employees and business executives. Read on to learn more about this exciting career choice.
Training Required to Become a Chauffeur
For most chauffeur positions, a college degree isn’t required, but some companies and local colleges offer training programs. What is needed are excellent driving skills, basic mechanical knowledge, the ability to read maps, and great communication skills. For-hire limousine companies offer some degree of on-the-job training, which teaches drivers about safety, the operation of communications equipment, the processing of paperwork, and customer service. Every day as a chauffeur is different, so if you want to become one, you’ll have to learn how to deal with a variety of clients and situations.
What Else do You Need?
You probably already know that you need a license to drive a motor vehicle. Depending on where you live, your vehicle’s size and the number of people you carry, you may also need a commercial endorsement (a CDL). In the US, anyone carrying 16 people or more is required by the FMCSA to earn a CDL. To do so, you must first pass tests on railroad crossing methods, loading and unloading gear, as well as tests on emergency exit and response procedures.
What Will I do on the Job?
As part of your chauffeur job, you will be responsible for helping passengers get into and out of your vehicle. You’ll also be picking up customers at set times and locations, and it will be your responsibility to perform basic maintenance tasks such as oil and fluid changes and tire pressure checks. Depending on the company you work for, you may offer additional amenities to your customers. A chauffeur’s job is largely based on customer service, and on many days you will end up loading and carrying luggage or performing the duties of an executive assistant.
Are There Any Other Qualifications?
A good chauffeur should have people skills, an even temperament, and a healthy measure of patience; these are all beneficial when you’re stuck in traffic, waiting on a delayed customer, or dealing with a wide range of personalities. Chauffeuring requires attention to detail; as you’re likely to be servicing important clients, you’ll always need to be on time, and look clean-cut and professional.
What are Some of the Drawbacks?
While driving luxury automobiles on a daily basis may sound like fun, the job isn’t without its share of disadvantages. The nature of the job requires that you be ready to drive at a moment’s notice, which can be difficult for those with other jobs or scheduling issues. There’s also the potential for trouble with clients; some are definitely more easy-going than others! No matter how difficult a client may be, a chauffeur always needs to remain calm and collected.
About the Authro
This guest post was written and contribtued by Amy Fowler for Main Dealer Discount, specialists in offering discounted BMW services. Find out more at maindealerdiscount.com or their Facebook page.
