Life as a Swiggy or Zomato Delivery Partner: Pros, Cons, and Insights
For individuals considering a gig as a delivery partner for companies like Swiggy or Zomato, navigating the pros and cons is crucial. I've worked as a delivery partner for Zomato as a part-time gig for six months in a metropolitan city. Here, I'll share my experiences and the aspects you should consider before joining this line of work.
Pros of Being a Delivery Partner
Flexibility
Freedom to Choose: The ability to decide when and where to work makes this a flexible gig. You can choose to work full-time, part-time, or even just on weekends. It's entirely up to you how you manage your schedule.
Financial Incentives
Good Earnings: Earning a substantial amount is possible if you are extremely hardworking. Additionally, there are opportunities for extra incentives during festivals, holidays, or Sundays, as both companies provide special bonuses during these times.
Decisional Freedom
Choice to Accept Orders: You have the discretion to accept or reject orders. However, multiple rejections can lead to a temporary ban on your ID.
Exploring New Restaurants
Restaurant Exploration: Witnessing many top-notch aesthetics and ambience of restaurants is one of the perks. One day, you might want to visit these restaurants as a customer rather than a delivery partner.
Interactions with People
Meeting Varied People: Delivery partners often interact with diverse groups of people, including other delivery partners, hotel staff, security personnel, and even curious customers. These dialogues provide a sense of community and positivity.
Free Food
Rare Free Food: Occasionally, you may receive free food when both the customer and the restaurant reject the order. While it’s a rare occurrence, it’s still a treat.
Cons of Being a Delivery Partner
Challenging Roads
Bad Road Conditions: Indian local roads can be challenging, with frequent potholes and unexpected directions. This can lead to back and arm pain and damage to the bike and phone.
Payout Issues
Variable Payouts: Companies offer good payouts on special days but can be inconsistent on regular days. There’s a risk of receiving less payment for the same distance than what was initially shown.
Unfair Incentive Algorithms
Incentive Algorithms: The software used by the companies can create biased ways of distributing incentives. Full-time riders are often favored, leading to less incentive for part-time riders who struggle to complete their target.
Discrimination and Disrespect
Incidents of Discrimination: Despite meeting nice customers, you might encounter hotel staff or security personnel who treat delivery partners as subhuman, regardless of their background, education, or status.
Health and Safety Concerns
Health Issues: Meal times are irregular, and the stress of peak hours can impact your daily routine. The constant driving also poses safety risks, especially in areas with poor road conditions and reckless drivers.
Religious Considerations
Religious Sensitivities: Some delivery partners may have religious concerns, such as being assigned orders of beef or pork. Companies should provide notice for such orders to accommodate their beliefs.
Risk During Late-Night Deliveries
Personal Security: Late-night deliveries can be risky, with incidents of gang fights, robberies, and personal attacks. These situations can be dangerous and pose a significant threat to the safety of delivery partners.
Technical Issues and Customer Service
Bike Issues and Customer Service: Issues like punctures, technical glitches, and poor customer service can complicate the job. Unsolved technological problems can lead to orders being transferred to other partners, leaving you stranded.
Packaging and Delivery
Poor Packaging: Restaurants often rush to pack orders, resulting in leaks and messes. This can make the delivery experience cumbersome for both the delivery partner and the customer.
Conclusion
While being a delivery partner offers flexibility and can be financially rewarding, it also comes with its share of challenges. It's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. If you choose to carry on, there are small actions customers can take to make the delivery experience better for all involved.
Customer Contributions
Customer Support: A little tip can make a delivery partner's day. Offering the one-time pin for entry to a gated community can save time for both the rider and the customer. Greetings and confirmations of addresses can also go a long way.
By understanding the realities of the job, both delivery partners and customers can work towards creating a more supportive and positive environment.