by Jessica Callele

Created on: October 10, 2007

Company car etiquette is an important aspect of business culture. Just like attire, punctuality and reliability reflect one's work ethics, so does the use, or abuse of the company car. Using the company car with respect and care demonstrates an attitude of loyalty and pride in the company, while mistreating the privilege shows a disrespect not only to the company as a whole, but also to fellow employees who must use the vehicle.

There are several aspects of company car etiquette that must be observed, depending on the company's own policies and procedures.

1) Signing out the vehicle: As a courtesy ensure that there are no other employees with a more urgent need for the vehicle during the time period you wish to use the vehicle. Sign out the vehicle according to company policy. Try and book the vehicle well in advance in order to ensure availability.

2) Driving habits: The tacky "How Is My Driving?" bumper stickers were created for a reason - to keep employee driving habits in check. Driving safely and courteously is important - especially if the company name or logo is on the vehicle. If an employee is driving with excessive speed, running lights, or cutting people off in traffic - potential customers or clients may be turned off of that company. When driving the company car it is time to put aside any bad habits displayed in one's own vehicle, and drive as if the police were watching the whole way. Observe speed limits and traffic signals, drive with courtesy and respect, and do not succumb to vulgarity or angry horn honking.

3) Car cleanliness/general upkeep: Many cars inadvertently becoming glorified trashcans throughout the course of the day. Wrappers, newspapers and coffee cups are major culprits. Ensure that after each use of the vehicle any garbage is removed. The next employee using the vehicle does not need to find a moldy, half eaten bagel under the seat. When you have finished using the vehicle ensure that the radio is turned down, all personal property is removed, and that the gas gage is at an acceptable level.

4) Record Keeping: Some companies require that records be kept as far as mileage used, destinations, and whether the vehicle was refueled. These records only require a minute of time. Ensure that any record keeping is completed in a timely, accurate and legible manner. Records are kept for a reason, and become useless if the information is inaccurate or illegible.

5) Personal Use: Quite simply a company vehicle should never be used for personal use without express permission from the supervisor. This includes dropping off dry cleaning, stopping at the post office, or anything else you would not normally do in the course of a work day.

When the use of the vehicle is disrespected by employees it can become a source of contention in the workplace. Following these rules of etiquette the company vehicle can become safe, enjoyable and stress free for everyone.

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