Creating synergy between departments in an auto dealership can feel like a Herculean task. Each department must be able to stand on its own yet collaborate seamlessly with the other department. This is especially true of the body shop, and that's why this hire can be critical for your success. Finding a manager for your body shop is relatively easy, but you shouldn't accept anybody just to have somebody in the position. Having a great body shop manager will push your auto dealership to the next level. What should you look for – and how can you ensure retention? Attributes of a [...]

Bruce Daugherty has built an extensive career in the industry by working his way up in automotive sales and service business since 1981 to executive management, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Sunroad Auto in San Diego. For the last 25 years, he managed in all three major time zones and touched nearly all manufacturers in the business. Currently, he is owner and president of his own consulting company. He took some time to share his insights about managing a business in a highly complex industry. What is your background in the automotive industry? After working coast to coast [...]

What goals have you set for your auto dealership this year? Chances are good that you won’t reach them unless you do one thing well.  Your ability to reach your goals depends on having great sales managers that lead your sales teams. No other role is as essential for closing deals and making money. Autodealer points out that the people leading your sales department should do two things: “a sales manager should either be working with a salesperson to help him close a deal or talking with a customer to try to close a deal.” Surprisingly, that’s not what you find most [...]