When Uber and other ride-sharing apps were initially gaining traction, drivers made obvious efforts to earn a 5-star rating.

It wasn’t uncommon to enter an Uber and be bombarded with offers of beverages, mints, gums, chargers, music preferences, etc. It felt like the drivers were trying to impress their passengers rather than serve them.

But as these services have matured, it seems like drivers are generally starting to understand what really matters.

I rarely need any extraneous services during my ride. I want to arrive safely, on time, and feel as though the driver is a genuinely nice person. Sometimes that means having extended conversation if I’m in the mood, sometimes silence is just fine.

If they want to go above and beyond, that’s great, but only after all of the fundamentals are crossed off.

-Brandon