Please introduce yourself and tell us how long you’ve been part of the team.
My name is Matthew Effiong, and I have been a proud member of The Wheatbaker team since November 10, 2019. Over the years, I have grown both professionally and personally within the organization. Being part of this prestigious hotel has given me the opportunity to serve diverse people and contribute meaningfully to the brand’s reputation for excellence.
What does your role as a driver involve on a typical day?
My role as a driver is to make sure that all people in the car are safe.
As a professional driver, my primary responsibility is to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of everyone in the vehicle. I understand that people trust us with their lives each time they step into our car, and I take that responsibility very seriously.
How do you ensure guest safety and comfort at all times?
With 100 percent assurance, I can guarantee that the guest is safe.
I am fully confident in my driving skills and expertise. I practice defensive driving, strictly obey traffic laws, and remain highly attentive at all times. My focus is to guarantee that every person arrives at their destination safely and without stress.
What personal values guide the way you do your job?
My personal values is that I should do my job very well. My personal value is excellence. I believe that whatever work is placed in your hands should be done with dedication, discipline, and integrity. Doing my job very well is not just a requirement for me; it is a personal commitment.
How important is professionalism and punctuality in your role?
Professionalism reflects in my appearance, attitude, communication, and behavior. From the moment I report for duty, I ensure that I am properly dressed, neat, respectful, and mentally prepared for the day’s responsibilities. Professionalism also means maintaining composure under pressure. Traffic conditions can change unexpectedly, road users may behave unpredictably, and schedules can sometimes be tight. However, remaining calm, polite, and focused at all times shows maturity and discipline. It also demonstrates reliability to management and colleagues, which builds trust over time. Arriving late is not just an inconvenience; it can affect the day’s plans, mood, and overall experience. That is why I make it a priority to always be on time — or even early — for every pickup and assignment. Being punctual requires planning and preparation. I ensure the vehicle is ready ahead of time, fuelled, clean, and in proper condition. I check routes in advance and account for possible traffic delays. This level of preparation prevents unnecessary stress and ensures smooth operations. Furthermore, punctuality shows respect — respect for management’s schedule, and for the organization’s reputation. Together, these two qualities form the foundation of my work ethic and are essential to maintaining high service standards in the hospitality industry.
What’s the most memorable guest experience you’ve had while on duty?
Everyone is usually calm and relaxed when I am on duty. I create a peaceful atmosphere in the vehicle, allowing them to enjoy a comfortable and smooth ride. Their comfort and satisfaction are important to me.
How do you remain calm and focused in traffic or high-pressure situations?
I am naturally calm and patient, especially when driving. Whether the road is busy, traffic is heavy, or conditions are challenging, I remain focused and composed. Staying calm helps me make wise decisions quickly and safely.
In what ways does your role contribute to the overall guest experience?
I treat every guest with respect, courtesy, and professionalism. By maintaining a peaceful and polite attitude, I contribute positively to their overall experience with The Wheatbaker. Even during transit, hospitality continues.
How do you work with other departments to ensure smooth operations?
I collaborate effectively with other departments and consider myself a strong team player. Hospitality requires teamwork, and I am always willing to support colleagues whenever necessary to ensure smooth operations.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time, I attend to my personal responsibilities and enjoy taking care of my car. Keeping my vehicle clean and well-maintained reflects my value for orderliness and responsibility.
What do guests often overlook about the role of a professional driver?
At this time, there are no additional comments, but I remain committed to continuous improvement and professional growth in my role.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a hospitality driver?
My advice to anyone aspiring to take on this role is to cultivate patience as a core strength. Success in this position does not happen overnight; it requires consistency, emotional intelligence, and the ability to navigate different personalities and situations with composure. Staying focused on your responsibilities, maintaining high standards in your delivery, and avoiding unnecessary distractions will set you apart.It is equally important to remain calm at all times. In hospitality especially, challenges will arise unexpectedly, but your ability to respond rather than react will define your professionalism and growth. A calm and steady approach builds trust with colleagues, management, and guests alike.Above all, I believe that with dedication, discipline, and God’s guidance, we can excel in our roles and continue to grow. May God Almighty grant us wisdom, strength, and grace to succeed in all we do, in Jesus’ name.
