Want to land your dream job at an auto dealership? The automotive industry is an exciting and dynamic field, with numerous opportunities available at car dealerships.

Whether you aspire to be a salesperson, mechanic, or a manager, a dealership can be your ticket to a fulfilling and rewarding career. Below you can find some tips and tricks to help you navigate the hiring process and land your dream job at a car dealership.

    1. Research and Understand the Dealership’s Culture Before applying for a job at a dealership, it’s crucial to research the company’s culture, history, and values. Understand the brands they represent and familiarize yourself with their products and services. Visit their website, social media accounts, and read customer reviews to get an idea of the dealership’s reputation. This will help you tailor your application and make a strong first impression during the interview process. This step is a must.
    1. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills and experiences relevant to the position you’re applying for. Emphasize any previous experience in sales, customer service, or the automotive industry. Showcase your passion for cars and your ability to connect with customers. Be sure to proofread your documents for errors and make them clearly formatted to optimize for Applicant Tracking Systems.
    1. Network with Dealership Employees Networking can give you a significant advantage in your job search. Attend industry events, such as automotive trade shows, and engage with dealership employees on LinkedIn. Building relationships with people in the industry can lead to valuable job referrals and insider tips on job openings.
    1. Prepare for the Interview Before the interview, research common interview questions and practice your responses. Be ready to discuss your relevant experience, how you handle difficult customers, and your sales strategy. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the automotive industry and the specific dealership by asking thoughtful questions about their business and future plans.[Learn more about dealership interview prep here]
    1. Dress for Success Appearances matter in the professional world. Dress professionally for your interview to create a positive first impression. Opt for business attire, such as a dress shirt and tie for men or a blouse and skirt or slacks for women.
    1. Be Persistent and Follow Up After submitting your application or completing an interview, follow up with a thank-you email to express your gratitude and reaffirm your interest in the position. If you don’t hear back within a week or two, consider reaching out to the hiring manager for an update. According to the Cox Automotive Dealership Staffing Study, 72% of franchised dealers surveyed say finding and hiring the right employees is their top challenge. You present a solution!Persistence can demonstrate your eagerness and commitment to joining the dealership team.
  1. Never Stop Learning While experience in the automotive industry is invaluable, obtaining certifications or pursuing further education can give you a competitive edge. Consider obtaining a certification from the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), the Automotive Management Institute (AMI), or a specialized training program from a specific manufacturer.NADA Academy program prepares current and future dealership leaders to operate a successful and profitable automotive business, while examining the latest in industry trends and technology, while AMI offers industry recognized certificates and professional designations for Collision Repair.

Landing your dream job at an auto dealership requires persistence, research, and preparation. By understanding the dealership’s culture, tailoring your resume, networking, and continuing your education, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in the automotive industry.

Want help finding your dream job in the auto industry? Contact us here.