On the Job

>>Like many workers who’ve lost their jobs during this recession, a layoff forced former software developer Clark Worcester to switch industries—from technology to limousine services. Not a bad switch, says Worcester, who loves driving for L.A. Limousine in Naples because he gets to meet and talk to new people every day. But, like many others, he’s regularly frustrated by bad drivers on Southwest Florida’s roads.

Where do you drive your clients?
Usually to airports, concerts, weddings. We take a lot of people to dine-outs, celebrations and bachelor or bachelorette parties. Not too many funerals, which is good; I don’t like funerals. We really drive people anywhere they wouldn’t want to drive themselves or take them out for a special celebration, such as to a nice restaurant.

What are the perks of being a limo driver?
One of the real benefits to me is I have a laptop computer. I have an Ethernet adapter so I can connect to the Internet whenever I want. I can sit there and work on other things while the clients are at dinner, for example. I usually work on software development, so I have two jobs, really.

How is the industry doing during the recession?
The industry in general seems like everything else, kind of in a downturn. However, we’re staying pretty busy. We’ve been in business for 11 years now, so we have a lot of regular clientele. I expect it will slow down soon, like every summer. One of the benefits of L.A. Limousine is the fleet of cars they have—they’re not leased, they’re owned. If they sit there, they don’t have to pay for them.

What is the appropriate amount of tip to give a limo driver?
Twenty percent, just like restaurants. That’s flexible; some people give more than 20 percent. That’s what I strive for. Most of my clients do tip.