In the United States, due to the serious effects of the coronavirus pandemic, and its isolation, several sectors are experiencing a major impact. Uber is one of them, and due to a lack of customers, many of the drivers are experiencing billing losses of around 80%, even leading some to stop working for fear of being infected.
To mitigate the effects of the isolation, Uber has offered some assistance, namely the payment of the 14 days of quarantine to employees who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. The company has now launched Work HUB, a feature presented by Dara Khosrowshahi, Uber's CEO, to support its drivers in finding other job opportunities, both in different technology business areas, as well as other companies.
As mentioned in his blog, the tests are being carried out in American cities like Chicago, Dallas and Miami. With a simple touch of the option, drivers can start accepting delivery orders. The company is accepting applications for Uber Works, which connects people to different industries, such as food production, warehouses and customer service in those cities. Even loads on Uber Freight trucks are being paid for each delivery, although in this case priority is being given to drivers with a Class A commercial driving license.
On the other hand, the Work HUB functionality will also attract job opportunities outside Uber, through partnerships with other companies, such as the Domino chain, Shipt, CareGuide and others. Uber is also listing links to classified ads from other companies on a regular basis.
For now, the feature was launched in the United States, but Uber says it is part of its global effort to help drivers find new job opportunities. Take the example that in the UK, the company has partnered with online retailer Ocado to offer food delivery work to its drivers.