Every single person at every dealership is having to adapt to the new reality. Remaining inactive in the face of significant change is a sure path to distress. As margins decline, inventories shrink and markets soften, it's even more crucial to scrutinize digital dealership performance more closely. An integral analysis component is to examine outdated behaviors and processes that impede performance - and replace them with an updated, holistic approach to "digital" operations. There are …
Dealership Operations
Fear-Based Leadership is Not Leadership
I've always believed that fear based leadership is detrimental to an organization's overall health. It's toxic to employees, customers, and business growth. Fear Is a Disguise. Fear-based leadership is often used to cover the leader's fear and insecurities, whether they're aware of it or not. I listen to podcasts every morning when I walk. Today, I heard a story from the Crooked Conversations podcast with Ben Rhodes (former Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications for …
3 Myths of Today’s Dealership Sales Department
The following is a comment I shared on my social media in 2011. At the time, I had hoped it would start some conversations and perhaps inspire change. Unfortunately, 7 years later, we still need to have this conversation because most dealership sales department business models are outdated. "In a few years, auto dealerships will ONLY need Internet Sales Departments. The ground is shifting and it's time to get on the program." There are just too many options today for customers to …
Auto Retail: Prioritize Digital Transformation or Be Phased Out
It's human nature to seek pleasure and avoid pain. Change disrupts both. However, when the customer behaves differently and their needs change, NOT changing means inevitable extinction. The auto retail industry is beginning to recognize the importance of digital transformation, but technology has also accelerated at a breakneck speed, making it even more difficult for dealers to keep up with the curve, much less stay ahead of it. Most dealers have not done enough to keep up with the digital …