Taxi driver

In this job, you will:

• take job details over the radio, by phone, on the in-car computer or via an app
• help to load and unload passengers' luggage
• help passengers to get in and out of the vehicle if required
• take payments for fares or log them online
• keep your vehicle clean and in a roadworthy condition
• make sure accounts and records are up to date

• customer service skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• active listening skills
• the ability to work well with others
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• knowledge of public safety and security
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

If you're a private hire driver, you'll need hire or reward insurance. You may also want to take out public liability insurance.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• applying directly

If you're employed by a larger taxi firm, you could become a supervisor or manager in the dispatch control room. You could also move into taxi licensing with a local authority.

As a self-employed driver, you could become a taxi operator and increase your earnings by running a private hire firm, employing other drivers.