November Earning Partner Spotlight: Dierdre S.
This month, we’re highlighting Earning Partner Dierdre Sakurai from Phoenix, AZ!
How long have you been working with dlivrd?
Since September of last year!
What does your journey into the gig economy/dlivrd look like?
I did customer service for a major grocery store chain. I retired last year after 38 years. So during the pandemic I was in charge of the pickup department, which got super busy. I worked crazy long hours, and suddenly needed an additional part-time gig. I started with another on-demand delivery company. It was freeing being able to pick my own schedule and be my own boss!
Last year, I was at a restaurant in Scottsdale doing a catering pick-up for another company where I connected with a dlivrd driver. He pulled up your app and told me I should apply to be an independently-contracted catering delivery driver for dlivrd! You’re by far the best company – in terms of app, earning opportunities, and your people-first team! If I ever have an issue that comes up, or if anything goes wrong, I can get a hold of a dlivrd team member right away. Everyone at dlivrd is always so accommodating and professional!
Do you have a favorite dish from a restaurant you’ve completed a catering delivery for?
Red Lobster for sure! I love seafood and I love crab. In fact, I love crab more than lobster! I actually did a pick-up from Red Lobster that was huge and barely fit in my car! I had another dlivrd driver Daniel come and help me. The car smelled so good afterwards!
What does the #dlivrddifference mean to you?
The #dlivrddifference is all about taking customer service and professionalism to the next level. We’re representing dlivrd even though we’re independently-contracted delivery drivers. So when I go to a restaurant, if I had a bad day or something’s going on, I have to leave it at the door. You walk in, you smile, you’re happy and professional. I want to give a good impression since that is a direct reflection of the company. For me, I want to be professional, have a good reputation, and be reliable.
What advice would you give to new Earning Partners?
It’s important to purchase your own supply of catering bags – hot and cold, and a buggy cart because you’re investing in your future as an independently-contracted delivery driver. I believe in working smarter and not harder with catering deliveries!
Also, it goes without saying, but be patient with the restaurant employees! When you show up and there’s only one person there, or they’re shorthanded and if the order is delayed, it’s not their fault. Ask the restaurant staff if there’s anything you can do to assist. The other day, my daughter and I picked up at a restaurant and there was only one employee. He had to do everything himself, packing all individual meals for the catering delivery. We offered to put the lids on the containers. I know it’s not required, but it feels good to offer up help, especially when restaurants are understaffed in times like these.
Any fun facts you’d like to share about yourself?
I come from a very big, loud family! We just added a new puppy to the mix as well! We’re a lot of fun. There are 13 of us in total and we enjoy going out to restaurants together!