What is the etiquette for seating arrangements in sedans?
2 Answers
Here is a detailed introduction to the etiquette for seating arrangements in sedans: For small sedans with two or three rows of seats: If the owner is driving personally, the front seat is generally considered superior, while the rear seat is inferior. If a professional driver is at the wheel, the rear seat is usually superior, and the front seat is inferior; the right side is considered "honorable," while the left side is "humble." For medium-sized sedans with multiple rows of seats: Regardless of who is driving, the front seat is superior, and the rear seat is inferior; the right side is higher in status than the left. For light off-road vehicles: No matter who is driving, the order of precedence is as follows: the front passenger seat, the rear right seat, and then the rear left seat. Order of boarding and alighting: The general sequence for getting in and out of the sedan is that elders and guests board first and alight last, while the secretary or other accompanying personnel board last and alight first. Specifically, elders and guests should enter from the right door first, followed by the secretary, who should go around to the left door to board. When alighting, the secretary should exit first and assist the elders and guests in opening the car door.
In business settings, the seating arrangement in a sedan should be handled with care to appear professional and courteous. The driver sits in the front seat, while the most important guest or boss always occupies the right rear seat, as it is the safest and most prestigious position, away from roadside risks and convenient for getting in and out. Others may sit on the left rear or front passenger seat, but avoid squeezing leaders in the middle. Once, during a signing ceremony, the CEO of the other party seemed displeased because I had arranged the seating incorrectly. I later learned that the right rear seat is the seat of honor. Since then, when picking up clients, I plan the seating order in advance and even proactively open the door to shield them from rain. Different car models, such as compact sedans or slightly more spacious SUVs, follow the same rules. The key is that small details leave a big impression, and respectful arrangements prevent awkwardness.
