The mushrooming motorcycle delivery business has changed our lives for the better. We are used to having people deliver almost everything that can be ordered online directly to our homes. As a consequence of this convenience the number of riders increases consistently with these motorcycles filling up our roads. The truth is that the barrier to entry in this industry is very low. There are no such requirements like a Professional driving permit (PrDP). All that is needed is a license and a serviceable motorbike. Nicknames like Kamikaze don’t do the brands that these motorcyclists represent any favour.
Without the formal training that public transport workers receive we cannot expect these riders to know all the aspects of their daily business activities. For instance, the might not understand the importance of customer service and time management as well as the management of their finances and how these tie into the maintenance of their motorcycles.
Recognising that these motorcyclists have embarked on a career of customer service in the guise of the delivery of goods, RISE BUSINESS CONTINUITY developed a programme that guides delivery drivers through all the aspects of their business. This goes from customer service to managing technology, basic motorcycle maintenance as well as basic business skills.
“The delivery service people are a vital part of our business and home lives.” Says RISE DIRECTOR Rudolf Rautenbach, “their industry is dynamic but the basics will always remain the same.” The RISE DELIVERY INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME aims to professionalise the industry. The course is delivered over a 12 month period in a series of videos that can be accessed at any time. Each month a new video is posted on our application. Once the programme is finished the rider will be given a certificate of completion.
“The programme is not specifically for the riders, although they benefit from it directly, it also has a distinct benefit for the retailer.” Says Rautenbach. “The motorcyclists are brand ambassadors, even if their vehicles are not branded by the retailer. If the rider’s bike is in a shabby state or they are rude to the customers this has a bearing on that brand.” To encourage the retailer’s support the retailer co-signs the final certificate.
“In some cases we’ve seen the retailer offer incentives for completion of the programme in the form of shopping or airtime vouchers.” Rautenbach observes. “It’s all about building a professional riding community.”
The gig economy has just arisen and it’s not had the time or the impetus to develop itself and look to become more professional. We feel that we are helping this process.”
Issued by RISE BUSINESS CONTINUITY by Caird Consulting. Mr Rautenbach can be contacted on 082 320 4067 or rudolf@createinfinity.co.za
Caird Consulting – Paul Janisch, Paul@caird.co.za 083 227 1375