Drive The Car For The Job You Want

Many people say to dress for the job you want, but fashion is just one of the many ways we present ourselves to the world. What people see affects what they think, and making the right first impression can have a long-term impact on your relationships. But, more often than not, the first thing people see when you pull up at the office is not you, but your car.

So, what does your car say about you? Are you rolling in dough and driving the latest Mercedes-Benz S-Class? Or maybe you’re a family man/woman who drops the troops off at school before coming to work in your Hyundai Palisade? There is a car out there for just about every type of consumer and every lifestyle. But, if you’re an up-and-comer at your workplace, what should you be driving?

Making a statement

Sometimes loud and proud is the way to go, and there are definitely plenty of flashy cars out there to do the job. Executive sedans are a dime a dozen in most corporate parking lots, but who says fitting in is a bad thing? Still, you may not want to sink yourself into debt before you land that CEO gig, so maybe a used F31 BMW is the way to go. It’s not the largest car in the world, but it does tell the world you’re on your way.

Mercedes has the C-Class, and each automaker has its performance-oriented variants, like M or AMG models. These types of cars are perfect for those who like to work hard and play hard, too. Of course, if you work in an industry where high risk and high reward are a way of life, then perhaps a sports car or a convertible would be more your speed?

Coupes and convertibles are as sexy as they are exciting, and they just dare passers-by not to notice them. Sure, they have almost no cargo space, and many don’t even bother with a back seat, but who cares? These cars are all about you, the driver. They make you feel special with the roar of their high-octane engines and the wind in your hair. These are cars that say you’re willing to do what it takes to have the life, and job, you want, even if that means overcoming terrible fuel economy.

Looking forward

Of course, there is something to be said for thinking outside the box and getting ahead of the crowd. To that end, it might be time to consider trading in your gas guzzler for something a little more electrifying. There are plenty of EVs to choose from today and going green is no longer just about saving some cash at the pumps.

There are now legitimate sports cars and more than a few luxury cars to choose from in the segment. Of course, jumping straight to the big game like the Lucid Air might be a bit ambitious, but the BMW i4 is a mid-range option and Polestar has an impressive sedan leading the charge, too. Many automakers are expanding into the segment, with Mercedes promising a number of models, but rather than be just another guy driving the same thing as all the execs, why not set the trend yourself?

Adam Hansen
 

Adam is a part time journalist, entrepreneur, investor and father.