Delivery van drivers say they have been left feeling worthless (18%) and sad (22%) \u2013 if a customer doesn't say thank you, research has found. <\/p>\n
A typical van driver can drop off up to 30 parcels a day \u2013 and nine in 10 say a thank you, a compliment, or being made a cup of tea or coffee, can really make a positive difference to their day.<\/p>\n
The survey of 500 delivery workers found that other nice things customers have done for them include learning their name, if it's someone they deliver to often, and making them a bacon sandwich, or even a fry-up.<\/p>\n
And with the festive season well and truly upon us, 80% of those polled say it would help them get in the Christmas spirit \u2013 if one of their customers gave them a seasonal tip or treat.<\/p>\n
It also emerged that 85% of drivers believe their customers do appreciate them and the work they do \u2013 although 80% feel they are the UK's unsung heroes.<\/p>\n
And almost three-quarters (73%) say a negative interaction can ruin their day \u2013 with 18% having refused delivery to someone, because they were so rude.<\/p>\n
The research was commissioned by van delivery experts, Zego, whose CEO, Sten Saar, said: \u201cIn the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced lives, it's easy to overlook the hard work of van delivery drivers, who ensure our packages reach us safely and on time.<\/p>\n
\u201cBeing nice to them is more than just politeness, it's recognising the essential role they play in connecting us to the things we need.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese drivers face challenging conditions and tight schedules, making a simple act of kindness a great way to acknowledge and appreciate their efforts.\u201d<\/p>\n
The study also found that 90% of the drivers polled go out of their way for those who have been really kind to them in the past.<\/p>\n
Some of the ways they do this include by waiting longer than normal after ringing the bell for them to answer (57%), and helping them to carry something awkward or heavy upstairs (55%).<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, 45% said customers often apologise if their dog is aggressive towards them when they are delivering a parcel.<\/p>\n
It also emerged 88% of those polled, via OnePoll.com, go out of their way for other delivery drivers they get orders from, simply because they know how it feels.<\/p>\n
Sten Saar, CEO at Zego, added: \u201cTreating van delivery drivers with respect goes beyond the transaction \u2013 it's about acknowledging their humanity.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey're not just drivers, they're individuals \u2013 so a small gesture, like a smile or a thank you, can turn a routine delivery into a meaningful interaction, creating a positive atmosphere for everyone involved.\u201d<\/p>\n
THE NICEST THINGS CUSTOMERS HAVE DONE FOR VAN DRIVERS:<\/p>\n