When dropping your car off at DTW airport before a trip, your valet driver is the first and last point of contact between you and your vehicle. They are the face of the company and form the foundation of your parking experience. This is why it’s important to understand what qualities to look for in your valet driver, and why Valet Connections more than fits the bill.
In a nutshell, you want someone who will prioritize professionalism, safety, and courtesy at all times. You also want someone who is committed to safety, backed by a respectful and friendly demeanor. Today we’ll talk about the essential qualities that set a good valet driver apart from the rest and what you as the customer should look for before deciding on a valet parking service.
Professionalism
Much more than just a crisp, clean uniform or a friendly smile, professionalism is a must-have in any public-facing valet. The ability to consistently show respect for both the customer and their vehicle is priority #1 when choosing a service. To demonstrate professionalism, valets should:
- Greet customers courteously and promptly
- Follow proper procedures for logging and tagging vehicles
- Handle each vehicle with the same level of care, from compacts to SUVs
- Dress neatly in a clean uniform, putting their best face forward every time
Someone who makes an effort in their appearance and demeanor sends a message to the customer that they take pride in the company they work for. It reflects well on the entire business, with this first impression setting the tone for the entire experience. When done well, the customer will be encouraged to return again and again.
Trustworthiness and Integrity
Handing over your keys to a stranger takes trust. If that trust is missing, you will have an uneasy experience. This is why honesty, integrity and responsibility should be top qualities in any valet service you choose.
Reputable valet companies will properly vet their workers, including:
- Conducting background checks and drug screenings
- Offering comprehensive training for competence and trust
- Ensuring solid driving skills
Any valet service you choose should hold the proper licenses, and be insured and bonded for everyone’s protection.
Driving Skills
Being a valet isn’t for the faint of heart. They have to be ready at a moment’s notice, often operating under intense pressure and within tight spaces. As such, they should possess top-notch driving skills, including:
- Ability to operate both automatic and manual transmissions
- Smooth and precise handling for all makes, models, and sizes of vehicles
- Ability to park in tight spots quickly and accurately
As part of technical driving skills, situational awareness is also important. Any good valet should have the ability to assess their surroundings quickly while avoiding hazards—something that’s essential in busy airport terminals and crowded lots.
Efficiency and Punctuality
Being quick without compromising safety: this is a vital skill in a valet driver. An efficient valet should keep their cool when faced with rushed customers who may miss their flight if any delays are made.
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is another vital quality of a valet driver. From keeping valuables safe to noting existing scratches, valets should be able to:
- Perform a quick visual inspection upon receipt of the car
- Accurately record vehicle condition
- Recall repeat customer preferences (such as seat position or mirror adjustments)
- Ensure nothing is misplaced, unlocked, or left running
All of these small things add up, showing respect for customer comfort and property.
Emphasis on Customer Service
In addition to driving skills, valet drivers must act as the face of the company. As frontline workers, valets should be:
- Calm, composed, and efficient in stressful situations
- Helpful and polite
- Attentive to customer questions and concerns
- Willing to assist with directions or luggage
A great valet company is one that will go the extra mile to ensure the customer is happy.
Knowledge of the Immediate Area
A DTW parking valet who knows their territory inside and out will be more efficient and attentive, able to address situations as they pop up with ease. They should be able to:
- Navigate the airport’s layout safely and quickly
- Understand traffic flow during peak hours
- Know where shuttle pick-up and drop-off points are
Local knowledge on the valet’s part ensures minimal stress for customers as they head out on or return from their trip.
Physical Fitness
Sometimes, during peak travel hours, drivers have to walk or jog long distances across lots and garages. They’re also on their feet for long periods of time every day, often times in harsh weather. Stamina and physical fitness are key qualities that ensure your valet can stay alert throughout the day and get the job done.
Ability to Multitask
Juggling multiple tasks at once is part and parcel of being a valet. Not only do they have to greet and assist customers, they have to direct traffic, communicate with dispatch, and park vehicles. This is why it’s essential that they can:
- Remain calm under pressure
- Adjust to last-minute requests or changes on the fly
- Switch gears quickly as needed
Adaptability is the foundation of professionalism.
Commitment to Safety
Safety is an underlying factors in any valet company you choose. Your valet driver should have a proven ability to:
- Follow traffic laws and layout flows
- Use seat belts and make sure passengers do as well
- Avoid risky maneuvers even when crunched for time
In conclusion, choosing the right valet service is about more than just driving and other technical skills. It’s about feeling comfortable entrusting your vehicle to someone else. If you do your research and find a great valet like those at Valet Connections, you’ll get peace of mind knowing you’re in good hands.
Contact Valet Connections
Make the right choice and go with Valet Connections for all your professional DTW parking needs. Rest assured, we bring the professionalism and other top qualities you’re seeking in a valet driver. Just call us to booking your next parking or valet experience today.