Driving for Royal Coachman since October 2013, I have a uniform that I wear every day. It consists of a black suit, black shoes, black trench coat or overcoat (weather permitting), white shirt and a company-issued tie.
In my travels, every now and then, I’m approached by curious people. They look at me with wide eyes and ask me one of the following questions:
- Are you an FBI Agent?
- Are you a CIA Agent?
- Are you with the KGB?
- Are you Secret Service?
Someone even recently told me I look like Al Pacino (NOT!) and asked if I was an undercover cop. I guess I just have that look of unquestionable authority!
My answer to all these curious folks is the same. I smile and say: “I’m a Senior Executive Chauffeur (SEC) and I love what I do!”
One of my accoutrements as part of my uniform is an American flag lapel pin. Once I was at a deli in South Jersey ordering a sandwich. The guy behind the counter asked me, “Are you a congressman?” No, I said. Why do you ask? He said every time he sees a politician on TV, they are wearing a lapel pin. I wear the lapel pin to show I’m a proud American. I thought this was a very interesting observation from this South Jersey sub slinger.
Whenever I’m at any of the airports in the area, you can count on someone thinking I’m an airport customer service employee. I guess I look like I know what I’m talking about!
Here are some of the usual questions I’m asked:
- What terminal is this?
- What level are we on?
- Where can I find the bus?
Believe it or not, one confused and distraught passenger once asked me in broken English, “What airport is this?” Wow!
No matter what day of the week (except Saturday), you’ll find me wearing my uniform. I wear it proudly.
