What was once known for being a job for fast talking people who could talk a customer into just about anything, car sales jobs have taken a turn for the better in the past decade. Today, customers come onto the lot already knowing quite a bit about the vehicles and their prices. Therefore, it is now up to the salesperson to build rapport with the customer, know the intricate details of each vehicle and provide a listening ear. If you are considering a career in car dealing, know that it can be a very rewarding and busy career with excellent compensation if you work diligently.
Education
Higher education is not required to become an car dealer. Most dealerships only require A Levels and take care of the rest of the training themselves. However, if you wish to rise through the ranks and get into a managerial role, you will need a degree, preferably in business or sales. If you go to university, you will want to focus on communication, mathematics and administration classes.
Entry level
Car dealerships offer numerous entry-level positions, allowing you to earn a salary plus commissions. Many dealerships also offer benefits, including discounts on vehicles you may purchase from them. Initially, you will most likely be trained for up to several months by another salesperson who will teach you tips of the trade.
Advancement
If you do well, you have a good chance of advancing into management positions and seeing an increased income. The average salary for 2015 was more than £35,000, but many car dealers make even more than this. In addition, with further job growth predicted at seven percent through 2024, you should have no problem in advancing or possibly even taking your skills to another dealership.
Building customer rapport
Without customer rapport, you will find it difficult to advance in your new career. As a new dealer, your best bet is to work off word-of-mouth referrals through family and friends. As you continue, you should get to know your customers, even following up with those who do not purchase a vehicle from you. Understanding the characteristics and desires of your customers will help you serve them better.
Know the product
It is understood that if you do not know the intricacies of the vehicles that you are selling, your customers will not feel comfortable with your skills. You should know which vehicles are in stock, where they are on the lot, how they work, what special features they have and what their safety ratings are.
As a car dealer, your number one concern will be getting a customer to trust you and listen to you. You can do this simply by being yourself and practising honesty and integrity. Of course, if you are interested in rising in the ranks to a managerial level, be sure to add a degree to your list of accomplishments. You can find a lot of fulfilment in this position if you have an eye for business and a way with people.
Do you have a career in car dealing? What other advice can you give? Let us know on Twitter at @CareerCamel.
Dixie is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, finance, women’s interests, and education. Dixie lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters who are the inspiration for her writing.
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