How To Work From Your Car More Effectively

People have been working out of their cars since the invention of cars. Salespersons, field agents, inspectors—the list goes on of people who are on the move all day and must document, plan, schedule, and so on between calls.  

Until a few decades ago, working from the road was both limiting and liberating. You were on your own, out of touch, and free from all the mundane office work. That has changed now. With cell phones and laptops, you are expected to make and receive phone calls, respond to emails, view documents, and do basically anything else you would do with a desk in front of you. But instead, there is a steering wheel in front of you and very little horizontal surface to act as a substitute. If this is your professional life, or at least part of it, Alderman Automotive has some suggestions on how to optimize your mobile workspace to be more effective and comfortable.  

Organization Is Key 

Just as you would organize your desk, arrange everything you need around you. Empty all the storage spaces in your car: the center console, door pockets, glove box, and any other areas within reach, and start anew.  

Anything you seldom use, such as vehicle receipts, stray knickknacks, and even your owner’s manual, should be removed and kept together in a packet in the cargo area. Now consider everything you need for work: phone, laptop, charging cords, business cards, notepads, pens, pencils, reference documents, calculator, etc. Think about the best place for them. Another option is to place them all in a container with sections, ensuring everything is organized. When you have a passenger, everything can be moved effortlessly to the back seat or cargo space in one motion. 

One potentially useful device to consider is a steering wheel desk. These are designed to quickly slide over the top or clip onto the bottom of the steering wheel, providing a flat surface for taking notes or placing your laptop. This can prevent you from hunching over continuously when using a laptop that is, well, on your lap. Additionally, if you need to perform precise movements on your laptop, which can be difficult with a trackpad, consider attaching or using a wireless trackball that allows for greater precision in navigating your screen.  

Clutter Is Poison 

Avoiding clutter is essential. Clutter creates frustration and can even affect you psychologically. Staying organized not only increases your efficiency but also boosts your confidence. Set aside a designated spot for trash, such as a bin with Velcro on the bottom to secure it, lined with a disposable bag that is emptied or replaced regularly. Clutter tends to accumulate when you are busy, so once or twice a week, or perhaps even daily, take a moment to stop and put everything back in place. 

Make Yourself Comfortable 

Car manufacturers strive to create comfortable seats, but they are designed for driving. What feels comfortable for working may vary. You might prefer to sit higher or lower, more or less upright, or add lumbar support. If your vehicle has seat position memory, set a configuration specifically for working, allowing you to switch from driving to work posture and vice-versa at the push of a button. If that option isn’t available, keep cushions nearby to facilitate necessary adjustments.  

Also, position your vehicle with consideration of the sun’s location. If it’s already warm, make sure it won’t shine straight on you, and keep it out of your eyes. On the other hand, if you frequently work into the night and have no other lighting options, have an LED light that straps to your head so you can work with bright light and have your hands free. 

Seek Quiet…Or Not 

Never underestimate the capacity of noise to distract and irritate. Do your best to find a quiet place to park. If that isn’t an option, consider keeping some noise-reducing headphones in your car. However, too much silence can also be distracting and make every sound you produce overly noticeable. If that’s the case for you, have some soft, non-distracting music on hand, preferably without lyrics, to fill the background.  

By following these tips and optimizing your space, technology, and comfort, you can transform your car into a highly functional mobile office, making you a more productive and happier person. 

…And It Must Be Said… 

Obviously, some cars are better for this kind of duty than others. If you think your car is not up to the task, make a clear list of what could improve things and visit Alderman Automotive. With our vast inventory from almost every brand and model, you are sure to find just what you need.