As a Shipt Shopper, maximizing your earnings through tips is an important aspect of the job. Here are some personalized strategies I’ve found effective in boosting my tip rate, especially in a bustling area like the Detroit metro.
TIPS ON TIPS:
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1. Add a Personal Touch:
Injecting a bit of personality into your texts can go a long way. Don’t hesitate to joke with the customer! If you encounter an item that’s out of stock, share your frustration with a lighthearted message like, “Ahh, they’re out of my favorite snacks!” This establishes a friendly rapport and makes the interaction more enjoyable.
2. Build Trust:
When it comes to substitutions, frame your suggestions in a way that builds trust. For example, if a specific brand is unavailable, say something like, “They’re out of the Kind granola bars, but I’ve been loving this new Junkless brand lately. Trust me, it’s a great alternative!” This not only shows your expertise but also reassures the customer that you have their best interests in mind.
3. Opt for Higher-Quality Substitutes:
When selecting items, remember that some fruits and vegetables come pre-cut, which can be a great option when the fresh versions are subpar. If you find that all the strawberries are moldy, grabbing some pre-cut ones from the deli can be a win-win: it improves your base pay and the customer appreciates the effort.
4. Use Google Wisely:
If a customer’s desired item is out of stock and you can’t find a direct substitute, take a moment to search for a suitable alternative. For instance, if fresh turmeric isn’t available, you might suggest fresh ginger instead. Customers often appreciate the extra knowledge and might not have known this option.
5. Set Expectations with Checkout Texts:
Checkout lines can be unpredictable, so it’s helpful to keep customers informed. A simple message like, “I have everything and am ready to check out, but the lines are a bit slow today. I’ll text you when I’m about five minutes away!” shows that you’re proactive and considerate of their time.
6. Handle Double Orders Efficiently:
When working on double orders, I make sure to complete one delivery before processing the second. After dropping off the first order, I park nearby to manage the second order without losing time. This keeps the workflow smooth and efficient.
7. Send a Thank You Text:
After delivering, I recommend sending a thank-you message about 5-10 minutes later, once they’ve had time to unload. A simple text like, “Thank you for using Shipt, [Customer’s Name]! Your receipt is in our app and available online. Have a great day!” serves as a gentle nudge to remind them to rate the order.
8. Leave Notes for Landline-Only Orders:
For orders that are designated as “landline only,” consider slipping a Shipt thank-you note into one of the bags. It’s a small gesture that can leave a lasting impression, encouraging customers to tip more generously.
9. Engage with Kids:
If children are present and social, include them in the interaction. Ask for their names and make a light joke about your journey over, such as “I hope you didn’t miss any fruit snacks on my way here!” This makes the experience fun and memorable for the whole family.
10. Use Your Best Judgment:
When delivering orders with substitutes, let the customer know about the changes before checking out. This way, they can voice any concerns or preferences rather than feeling surprised upon delivery. It’s a thoughtful approach that shows you care about their satisfaction.
Conclusion
Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance your tip potential as a Shipt Shopper. Building rapport, providing excellent service, and maintaining clear communication not only improve customer satisfaction but can also lead to more generous tips. Experiment with these techniques and see what resonates best in your market. Happy shopping!
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