All Blog Posts Tagged 'runner' - DealerELITE.net2024-03-28T23:08:15Zhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profiles/blog/feed?tag=runner&xn_auth=noToo Many Dealers Today Are Stuck In The Pandemic – Why Inventory Management Is Ripe For A Shakeuptag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-03-25:5283893:BlogPost:13753312024-03-25T17:24:17.000ZJohn Sternalhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/JohnSternal
<p>In the years immediately following the COVID-19 pandemic, auto dealers experienced a paradigm shift in inventory management, pricing strategies, and overall business operational strategy. The unprecedented circumstances led to a period where inventory acquisition was viewed as a “get it however you can” mentality. However, as the market dynamics for supply chains have reverted back to a more pre-pandemic landscape, combined with a still-challenging economy, dealers find themselves facing new…</p>
<p>In the years immediately following the COVID-19 pandemic, auto dealers experienced a paradigm shift in inventory management, pricing strategies, and overall business operational strategy. The unprecedented circumstances led to a period where inventory acquisition was viewed as a “get it however you can” mentality. However, as the market dynamics for supply chains have reverted back to a more pre-pandemic landscape, combined with a still-challenging economy, dealers find themselves facing new challenges. Now more than ever, it's imperative for auto retailers to return to a pre-pandemic mindset, where they were hungry and searching for the right competitive edge in their approach to inventory management and pricing strategies.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The pandemic altered consumer behavior significantly. From remote work setups to reduced travel, the demand for certain vehicle types fluctuated. Auto dealers had to adapt swiftly to these changing preferences. In the past, overpaying at auction might have been overlooked by a forgiving market, but now, any missteps are swiftly punished. As the economy stabilizes, it's essential to reassess these shifts and realign inventory accordingly leveraging advanced data analytics to gain a competitive edge locally.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>During the peak of the pandemic, many auto dealers quickly shifted their focus to inventory acquisition and management, acquiring cars and trucks regardless of the cost of acquisition. Dealers knew they could make up the profit upon resale simply because supply was low for customers as well. This dramatically reduced supply coupled with increased demand and shifting manufacturers' incentives led to this approach to inventory management, ultimately leading to significant profits for dealers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Many Dealers have grown complacent in their approach</strong></p>
<p>However, this philosophy is no longer sustainable in the current economic climate and industry landscape, yet many dealers remain torpid in their need to reevaluate their approach to regain a willingness to scrutinize every little aspect of inventory acquisition.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>With the economy and supply chains stabilized, competition among auto dealers is again intensifying. Dealers who focus on proactive inventory management and pricing strategies are now better positioned to meet the changing market dynamics. And this means those who continue to rely on the pandemic-induced philosophy of acquiring inventory will soon find themselves at a disadvantage.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>What Dealers Need To Regain Their Competitive Edge</strong></p>
<p>Efficient inventory management is still one of the key cornerstones of success for auto retailers. It's crucial to strike a balance between stocking sufficient inventory to meet demand and avoiding overstocking, which can lead to financial strain. By analyzing sales data and market trends, dealers can optimize inventory turnover and minimize carrying costs. Today, only 12.6% of retailers are believed to be leveraging sophisticated analytical data to monitor days on the lot, combined with segment type, used or new, and other local inventory levels of similar vehicles<sup>1</sup>. This expanded view of inventory trends can separate good dealers from great dealers.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Furthermore, dynamic pricing strategies now enable dealers to adjust prices in real-time based on factors such as demand, market conditions, and competing local inventories. During the pandemic, some dealers may have resorted to static pricing due to reduced competition. However, in today's competitive landscape, dynamic pricing is essential for staying agile and maximizing profitability.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Technology also plays a pivotal role in modern inventory management and pricing strategies. Dealers should leverage inventory management software, artificial intelligence (AI) and predictive analytics, and pricing tools to streamline operations and make data-driven decisions. These tools provide insights into market trends, customer preferences, and competitor pricing, empowering dealers to stay ahead of the curve.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Beyond inventory management and pricing strategies, delivering exceptional customer experiences remains paramount. In a competitive market, satisfied customers become loyal advocates and repeat buyers. Dealers should prioritize transparency, responsiveness, and personalized service to foster long-term relationships and drive sales growth. During the pandemic years, many dealers absorbed an attitude of “the customer needs us more than we need them”. While some dealers still operate under this mindset, leading dealers understand they need to work to earn the customer’s satisfaction and long-term trust.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>As the automotive industry navigates the post-pandemic landscape and shifting economic climate, auto retailers must continuously reevaluate their inventory management and pricing strategies. By returning to smart fundamentals and embracing proactive approaches, dealers can adapt to the evolving market dynamics and thrive in the competitive environment.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>About The Author: Len Short is the executive chairman of Lotlinx, who offers the</strong> <strong>only inventory platform that enables dealers to automatically adapt to market dynamics, mitigating inventory risk through VIN-specific strategies. For more information, visit</strong> <a href="http://www.lotlinx.com"><strong>www.lotlinx.com</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>1: Lotlinx Dealer Industry Survey of over 2,500 Retailers; March 2024</em></p>Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Lookup Servicetag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-03-23:5283893:BlogPost:13752192024-03-23T03:30:00.000ZTerrel Watkinshttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/TerrelWatkins
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) lookup service is a pivotal tool in the automotive industry, offering a window into a car's past that's as revealing as a personal biography. This 17-character code, unique to each vehicle, serves as a fingerprint, encoding vital details about the car's origin, specifications, and history. VIN lookup services transform these alphanumeric sequences into comprehensive reports, providing transparency and insight into a…</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) lookup service is a pivotal tool in the automotive industry, offering a window into a car's past that's as revealing as a personal biography. This 17-character code, unique to each vehicle, serves as a fingerprint, encoding vital details about the car's origin, specifications, and history. VIN lookup services transform these alphanumeric sequences into comprehensive reports, providing transparency and insight into a vehicle's journey from the assembly line to the present day. Let's dive into the intricacies of VIN lookup services, exploring their importance, functionality, and the benefits they offer to various stakeholders in the automotive ecosystem.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>The Importance of VIN Lookup Services</strong></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">VIN lookup services are indispensable in fostering transparency and trust in vehicle transactions. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or an enthusiast, understanding a vehicle's history is crucial. These services help uncover hidden issues such as previous accidents, flood damage, odometer fraud, or even if the car was previously stolen. For buyers, this information is crucial in making an informed decision. Sellers, on the other hand, can use their vehicle's clean history as a selling point. For law enforcement and regulatory bodies, VIN lookups are tools for tracking vehicle legality and compliance.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>How VIN Lookup Services Work</strong></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The process begins when a VIN is entered into a lookup service. These services access vast databases that compile reports from insurance companies, repair shops, vehicle manufacturers, and law enforcement agencies. The VIN acts as a query key, pulling relevant data to compile a report. This report can include the vehicle's manufacture details, title history, any accidents or damage, service and repair information, and sometimes even detailed photos from previous listings.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Key Features of VIN Lookup Services</strong></span></h2>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Vehicle History Reports:</strong> The cornerstone of <a title="VIN Lookup" href="https://www.vindecoderz.com/">VIN lookup</a> services, these reports provide a detailed account of a vehicle's history, including previous accidents, service records, and ownership changes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Recall Information:</strong> They alert potential buyers to any manufacturer recalls that affect the vehicle, ensuring that necessary repairs are made to avoid safety issues.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Title Check:</strong> This feature verifies the legitimacy of a vehicle's title, checking for any liens against the car or if it has ever been branded as salvage or rebuilt.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Odometer Fraud Check:</strong> By comparing the reported mileage at various service intervals, VIN lookup services can help identify discrepancies that may indicate odometer tampering.</span></li>
</ul>
<h2><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Benefits of Using a VIN Lookup Service</strong></span></h2>
<h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For Buyers:</span></h3>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Informed Decision-Making:</strong> Buyers can assess the risk and value of a used vehicle based on its history, avoiding potential lemons.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Negotiation Leverage:</strong> A clean history report can justify a higher price, while known issues can be used as bargaining chips.</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For Sellers:</span></h3>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Trust and Transparency:</strong> Providing a comprehensive vehicle history report to potential buyers can increase trust and expedite sales.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Higher Resale Value:</strong> Vehicles with a well-documented service history and no major incidents often command higher resale values.</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For Owners:</span></h3>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Maintenance Tracking:</strong> Owners can keep abreast of recall notices and service recommendations, ensuring their vehicle remains in optimal condition.</span></li>
</ul>
<h2><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Conclusion</strong></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">VIN lookup services are more than just a tool; they're a bridge to informed decision-making in the automotive world. By unveiling the life story of a vehicle, they empower buyers, sellers, and owners with the knowledge to make choices that align with their interests and safety concerns. As technology advances, the scope and accuracy of these services will only improve, making.</span></p>Car Pros’ Shirley Jones Recognized with “Women Paving the Way” Awardtag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-03-19:5283893:BlogPost:13751322024-03-19T15:06:57.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12402190863?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12402190863?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>CDK Global Award recognizes Jones as an outstanding female leader in the automotive industry</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>RENTON, WA – March 19, 2024 –</strong> Car Pros Automotive Group today announced that CFO Shirley Jones has been recognized with a 2024 “Women Paving the Way” award from CDK…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12402190863?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12402190863?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>CDK Global Award recognizes Jones as an outstanding female leader in the automotive industry</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>RENTON, WA – March 19, 2024 –</strong> Car Pros Automotive Group today announced that CFO Shirley Jones has been recognized with a 2024 “Women Paving the Way” award from CDK Global. The award spotlights women who have been a beacon for change for women in the automotive industry. The Paving the Way award campaign from CDK recognizes those in the automotive industry who contribute, connect and collaborate to elevate the role of women.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As CFO of Car Pros, one of the fastest growing automotive groups in the US, Jones oversees all financial operations for the automotive group, which has over 700 employees, is the #1 Kia retailer and the #1 Kia EV dealer in the US, and is the 45<sup>th</sup> largest auto group in the nation. Jones is dedicated to Car Pros’ vision of creating opportunities by providing an open, inclusive and safe environment for team members to grow and thrive while working to change the lives of both employees and customers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“We are delighted to honor Shirley Jones for her grit, determination, and drive, as well as her efforts in advocating for women in the automotive industry,” said Patrick Ryan of CDK Global. “Beyond her industry knowledge and leadership, Shirley is extremely well-respected within her group and by the neighboring dealerships in southern California. Congratulations, Shirley and thank you for your remarkable contributions to pave the way for women in the automotive industry!”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jones started her career at Car Pros in 2005 as an office manager, and became CFO in 2018. The processes and procedures she has instituted within the automotive group, as well as her commitment to fostering confidence and motivation in her employees and collaborative relationships across departments, has contributed to the success of Car Pros.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I am so proud of Shirley, and this recognition is so well deserved,” said Matthew Phillips, CEO of Car Pros Automotive Group. “In an industry not historically known for its diversity or embrace of women, she is not only a testament to an industry that is changing, but she is part of driving that change. Her success demonstrates the power of learning your craft, investing in yourself and, always, focusing on excellence. Many congratulations Shirley!”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Founded in 1993 by the Phillips family, Car Pros began as a small used car lot with just two employees. Today, Car Pros is a leading automotive sales and service group with nine dealerships in Western Washington and Southern California, selling over 2,400 cars per month. Car Pros serves customers in the communities of Renton, Tacoma, Glendale, Los Angeles, Huntington Beach, and Moreno Valley.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About Car Pros Automotive Group<br/></strong> Car Pros Automotive Group is a leading automotive sales and service group, with dealerships representing Kia, Hyundai, Honda, BMW and MINI. Founded in 1993 by Ken Phillips, Car Pros currently has annual sales of $1 billion and is the top selling Kia retailer in the nation, having retailed over 175,000 new Kia models. The retailer is committed to changing lives through high-performance and values-led dealerships. Led by CEO Matthew Phillips, Car Pros is shaping the future of automotive retail: Franchise, professional, tech-savvy, values driven, and people focused. Visit <span><a href="https://www.carpros.com">https://www.carpros.com</a></span> to learn more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Media Contacts:<br/></strong> Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, angela@mwebbcom.com, (714) 454-8776<br/> Melanie Webber, mWEBB Communications, melanie@mwebbcom.com, (949) 307-1723</p>Most Common Infiniti QX80 Problems: Understanding and Addressing Issuestag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-03-13:5283893:BlogPost:13753042024-03-13T10:30:00.000ZKelsey Walkerhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/KelseyWalker
<h2><img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-1293430" height="486" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Most-Common-Infiniti-Problems-1.png" width="360"></img></h2>
<p>The Infiniti QX80 is a luxurious SUV that boasts powerful performance, elegant design, and cutting-edge technology. However, like any vehicle, it's not immune to issues that may arise over time. Understanding these common problems and knowing how to address them can help ensure that your Infiniti QX80 continues to deliver the exceptional driving experience you expect.</p>
<h2>1. Infiniti QX80 Air Suspension Malfunctions</h2>
<p><img alt="Car-Air-Suspension-Repair-smc" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1293431" height="366" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Car-Air-Suspension-Repair-smc.jpg" width="550"></img></p>
<p>One of the most prevalent…</p>
<h2><img class="alignnone wp-image-1293430" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Most-Common-Infiniti-Problems-1.png" alt="" width="360" height="486"/></h2>
<p>The Infiniti QX80 is a luxurious SUV that boasts powerful performance, elegant design, and cutting-edge technology. However, like any vehicle, it's not immune to issues that may arise over time. Understanding these common problems and knowing how to address them can help ensure that your Infiniti QX80 continues to deliver the exceptional driving experience you expect.</p>
<h2>1. Infiniti QX80 Air Suspension Malfunctions</h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1293431" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Car-Air-Suspension-Repair-smc.jpg" alt="Car-Air-Suspension-Repair-smc" width="550" height="366"/></p>
<p>One of the most prevalent issues reported by Infiniti QX80 owners is related to the air suspension system. Some drivers have experienced problems with the air suspension failing to maintain proper ride height or encountering leaks in the system. These issues can lead to a bumpy ride, uneven tire wear, and difficulty controlling the vehicle.</p>
<p>To address air suspension malfunctions, it's essential to have the system inspected by a qualified technician. They can diagnose any leaks, worn components, or electrical issues and recommend the necessary repairs or replacements. Regular maintenance, including checking the air suspension system for leaks and ensuring proper fluid levels, can also help prevent potential problems.</p>
<h2>2. Infiniti QX80 Electrical System Glitches</h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1293434" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Electrical-System-Glitches.jpg" alt="Electrical System Glitches" width="550" height="366"/></p>
<p>As with many modern vehicles, the Infiniti QX80 is equipped with a sophisticated electrical system that controls various functions and features. However, some owners have reported experiencing electrical glitches, such as malfunctioning infotainment systems, intermittent power window operation, and dashboard warning lights illuminating unexpectedly.</p>
<p>Diagnosing and addressing electrical system issues can be complex and may require the expertise of a certified technician. They can use diagnostic tools to pinpoint the source of the problem and perform any necessary repairs or software updates. Regularly checking the vehicle's battery health, ensuring proper connections, and keeping electrical components clean can also help prevent electrical issues.</p>
<h2>3. Infiniti QX80 Transmission Problems</h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1293438" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/car-gear-issue.png" alt="car gear issue" width="550" height="366"/></p>
<p>Another common concern among Infiniti QX80 owners is related to the transmission. Some drivers have reported issues such as rough shifting, delayed engagement, or transmission fluid leaks. These problems can compromise the vehicle's performance, fuel efficiency, and overall drivability.</p>
<p>Addressing transmission problems promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to the vehicle. A professional mechanic can inspect the transmission system, including the fluid level and condition, and perform any necessary repairs or replacements. Regular maintenance, such as flushing and replacing the transmission fluid according to the manufacturer's recommendations, can also help prolong the lifespan of the transmission.</p>
<h2>4. Infiniti QX80 Brake System Issues</h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1293439" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/car-brake-system.jpg" alt="car brake system" width="550" height="366"/></p>
<p>The brake system is a critical safety component of any vehicle, and Infiniti QX80 owners have reported various brake-related problems. These may include premature brake pad and rotor wear, brake pedal vibration, or squealing noises when braking. Ignoring brake system issues can compromise the vehicle's stopping power and increase the risk of accidents.</p>
<p>Having the brake system inspected regularly by a qualified technician is essential for maintaining optimal performance and safety. They can check the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid for signs of wear or damage and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and driving habits that minimize excessive braking can also help prevent brake system issues.</p>
<h2>5. Infiniti QX80 Fuel System Concerns</h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1293442" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Fuel-System-Concerns.jpg" alt="Fuel System Concerns" width="550" height="366"/></p>
<p>Some Infiniti QX80 owners have reported problems with the fuel system, such as fuel leaks, fuel pump failures, or fuel gauge inaccuracies. These issues can result in reduced fuel efficiency, engine performance issues, and potential safety hazards.</p>
<p>Addressing fuel system concerns promptly is vital to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safety. A professional mechanic can inspect the fuel system components, including the fuel lines, fuel pump, and fuel injectors, for signs of wear or damage and perform any necessary repairs or replacements. Regularly inspecting the fuel system for leaks, keeping the fuel tank clean, and using high-quality fuel can also help prevent fuel system problems.</p>
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<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>In conclusion, while the Infiniti QX80 is a remarkable SUV known for its luxury and performance, it's essential for owners to be aware of common problems that may arise. Understanding these issues and knowing how to address them can help ensure that your Infiniti QX80 remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come. Regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and driving habits that prioritize safety can all contribute to maintaining the health and longevity of your Infiniti QX80.</p>Credit Union Leasing of America Experienced Double-Digit Growth in 2023tag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-02-29:5283893:BlogPost:13750672024-02-29T15:31:46.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p><em>In a challenging auto finance environment, CULA grew its portfolio as well as Credit Union and Dealer Partners, while expanding national footprint</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>San Diego, CA</strong> <strong>– February 29, 2024</strong> – Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) experienced double-digit growth in its portfolio, credit union and dealer partners in 2023, even in the face of a challenging auto finance environment, the company announced today. CULA drove 24% growth in credit…</p>
<p><em>In a challenging auto finance environment, CULA grew its portfolio as well as Credit Union and Dealer Partners, while expanding national footprint</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>San Diego, CA</strong> <strong>– February 29, 2024</strong> – Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) experienced double-digit growth in its portfolio, credit union and dealer partners in 2023, even in the face of a challenging auto finance environment, the company announced today. CULA drove 24% growth in credit union partnerships year-over-year, with four of those additions driving expansion into multiple states.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In addition, the Company grew active dealers 17%, adding 274 new dealers to the program. CULA now offers vehicle leasing through credit unions in 23 states and more than 40 credit unions are currently active on CULA’s innovative leasing platform.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“While vehicle prices have been trending down, the average transaction price remains $6500 higher than in January 2021 according to Kelly Blue Book,(1)” said Ken Sopp, President of CULA. “High prices, coupled with an elevated interest rate environment, continues to make it challenging for consumers to afford cars, which is why leasing remains a strong option for credit unions to offer members in the market for a new or used vehicle – and why we expect to see continued growth in 2024.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>According to CULA’s January 2024 “<span><a href="https://www.cula.com/nearly-40-of-credit-unions-expect-auto-finance-portfolio-growth-in-2024/">Future of Auto Finance</a></span>” survey, nearly 60% of credit union professionals say they believe vehicle leasing would be a positive addition to their finance portfolio in 2024 – data that is borne out by the uptick in new vehicle leasing reported by Experian: from 21.15% in 2022 to 27.37% in 2023(2).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sopp also noted that the growth CULA has seen in its dealer partnerships is something they expect to continue in 2024. In fact, over 70% of credit unions in the CULA survey reported that they plan to deepen/increase those relationships in 2024. “Dealer partnerships have been core to a credit union leasing program’s success and it makes sense as it offers dealerships yet another financing option for its customers.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Vehicle leasing enables dealers and credit unions to provide relief from the high price of vehicles to their members, as well as term flexibility, without the risks of longer-term loans,” continued Sopp. “Leasing has, quite simply, become a necessary portfolio offering to help credit unions remain competitive in the current environment – and for the long term.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>According to Vince Nowicki, Chief Lending Officer of Mission Federal Credit Union in San Diego, California, a CULA partner since 2018: "Since we have partnered with CULA on vehicle leasing, we have been able to open up an important, more affordable alternative to help our members get into a vehicle without taking on an extended loan. And the benefits to us, in addition to helping our members, are higher yield, greater portfolio diversity and staying relevant with our members’ preferences, as well as being able to rely on CULA to navigate the back-end complexities of leasing for us so we can focus on member service. Offering a lease product was a new strategy for Mission Federal. We were fortunate to have partnered with CULA who helped us every step of the way.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>CULA has been the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 35 years. Its innovative leasing program is analytically driven, high-value and handles all the intricacies of leasing for its clients – including insurance, operations, compliance and more. CULA’s understanding of the credit union financial model has resulted in long-term business relationships with top-tier credit unions, including nine of the top 10 credit unions offering leasing in the U.S. The program enables credit unions to easily add leasing to their portfolios and dealers to offer their customers more finance options, especially as affordability becomes their main concern.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About Credit Union Leasing of America</strong></p>
<p>Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) has been the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 35 years. Founded in 1988, CULA provides best-in-class program assistance, analytics reporting, compliance support, dealer management tools and member services. The CULA indirect vehicle leasing program empowers credit union innovators to diversify their existing loan portfolios, improve yield and expand member services. Visit <span><a href="https://www.cula.com/">https://www.cula.com/</a></span> to learn more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p>
<p>Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, angela(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, (714) 454-8776</p>
<p>Melanie Webber, mWEBB Communications, melanie(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, (949) 307-1723</p>
<p></p>
<p><span>(1) <a href="https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/when-will-car-prices-drop/#link1">https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/when-will-car-prices-drop/#link1</a><u> </u></span></p>
<p><span><a href="https://news.cuna.org/articles/123161-vehicle-loan-terms-decrease-as-interest-rates-rise">(2) https://news.cuna.org/articles/123161-vehicle-loan-terms-decrease-as-interest-rates-rise</a></span></p>Honda City Common Problems and How to Fix Them: A Comprehensive Guidetag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-02-24:5283893:BlogPost:13747632024-02-24T11:18:28.000ZKelsey Walkerhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/KelseyWalker
<p><img alt="Honda City Common Problems and How to Fix Them" class="alignnone wp-image-1282124" height="548" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Honda-City-Common-Problems-and-How-to-Fix-Them.png" width="406"></img></p>
<h2><b>Introduction:</b></h2>
<p><span>The Honda City has long been a favorite among drivers for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and</span> <span>sleek design. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its share of common problems that</span> <span>owners may encounter. From minor nuisances to more serious issues, being aware of these</span> <span>common problems and knowing how to address them can help ensure a smooth driving</span> <span>experience. In this…</span></p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-1282124" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Honda-City-Common-Problems-and-How-to-Fix-Them.png" alt="Honda City Common Problems and How to Fix Them" width="406" height="548"/></p>
<h2><b>Introduction:</b></h2>
<p><span>The Honda City has long been a favorite among drivers for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and</span> <span>sleek design. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its share of common problems that</span> <span>owners may encounter. From minor nuisances to more serious issues, being aware of these</span> <span>common problems and knowing how to address them can help ensure a smooth driving</span> <span>experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore some of the most frequently reported</span> <span>issues with the Honda City and provide practical solutions to fix them.</span></p>
<h2><b>1. Electrical System Malfunctions:</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1282131" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Electrical-System-Malfunctions.jpg" alt="Electrical System Malfunctions" width="600" height="366"/></p>
<p><span>One common problem reported by Honda City owners relates to issues with the electrical</span> <span>system. Symptoms may include malfunctioning power windows, faulty door locks, or problems</span> <span>with the dashboard lights. These issues can often be traced back to a faulty fuse, wiring</span> <span>harness, or malfunctioning switch.</span></p>
<p><b>Solution:</b> <span>Start by checking the fuse box for any blown fuses and replace them if necessary.</span> <span>Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage or corrosion, and repair or replace any</span> <span>damaged wires. If the problem persists, consult a qualified mechanic or electrician to diagnose</span> <span>and repair any underlying issues with the electrical system.</span></p>
<h2><b>2. Air Conditioning Problems:</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1282135" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Air-Conditioning-Problems-1.png" alt="Air Conditioning Problems" width="600" height="385"/></p>
<p><span>Another frequent complaint from Honda City owners is related to air conditioning problems. This</span> <span>may manifest as weak airflow, warm air coming from the vents, or the AC system failing to cool</span> <span>the cabin adequately. These issues can be particularly frustrating, especially during hot summer</span> <span>months.</span></p>
<p><b>Solution:</b> <span>Begin by checking the refrigerant levels in the AC system and topping up if</span> <span>necessary. Inspect the AC compressor and condenser for any signs of damage or leaks, and</span> <span>repair or replace any faulty components. Additionally, ensure that the cabin air filter is clean and</span> <span>free from debris, as a clogged filter can restrict airflow. If the problem persists, seek assistance</span> <span>from a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue.</span></p>
<h2><b>3. Suspension Noise:</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1282139" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/car-Suspension-Noise.png" alt="car Suspension Noise" width="600" height="400"/></p>
<p><span>Some Honda City owners may experience unusual noises coming from the suspension system</span> <span>while driving. This can range from clunking or knocking sounds over bumps to squeaking or</span> <span>creaking noises when turning the steering wheel. These noises are often indicative of worn or</span> <span>damaged suspension components.</span></p>
<p><b>Solution:</b> <span>Inspect the suspension system for any signs of wear or damage, paying close</span> <span>attention to the shocks, struts, bushings, and ball joints. Replace any worn or damaged</span> <span>components as necessary, and ensure that all nuts and bolts are tightened to the</span> <span>manufacturer's specifications. If the noise persists, consider having the suspension system</span> <span>inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any underlying issues.</span></p>
<h2><span><strong>4.</strong></span> <b>Engine Performance Issues:</b></h2>
<p><span><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1282136" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/car-Engine-Performance-Issues.png" alt="car Engine Performance Issues" width="600" height="400"/></span></p>
<p><span>Occasional reports of engine performance issues, such as rough idling, hesitation, or stalling,</span> <span>have been reported by some Honda City owners. These issues can be attributed to a variety of</span> <span>factors, including dirty fuel injectors, a faulty ignition coil, or a malfunctioning oxygen sensor.</span></p>
<p><b>Solution:</b> <span>Start by performing routine maintenance tasks, such as replacing the air filter, spark</span> <span>plugs, and fuel filter. Clean the fuel injectors using a reputable fuel injector cleaner, and inspect</span> <span>the ignition coil and spark plug wires for any signs of wear or damage. If the problem persists,</span> <span>have the engine scanned for error codes to pinpoint the exact cause of the issue. Consult a</span> <span>qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair any underlying problems with the engine.</span></p>
<h2><b>How Service My Car Assist You?</b></h2>
<p>Searching for the ideal destination to ensure top-tier care for your Mini car? Your quest ends here. Welcome to Service My Car, your ultimate solution. Located in Sharjah, our <span><a href="https://servicemycar.com/uae/mini-service-sharjah">mini service center sharjah</a> offers</span> convenient and dependable servicing tailored to your vehicle's needs. Our team comprises seasoned technicians committed to providing thorough maintenance using authentic parts and advanced diagnostics. Whether it's routine check-ups or major repairs, we prioritize your car's performance and safety. With our efficient procedures and steadfast dedication to excellence, Service My Car guarantees that your vehicle maintains peak condition, granting you peace of mind on every journey. Trust us for unmatched service and attention to detail for your Mini car.</p>
<h2><b>Conclusion:</b></h2>
<p><span>While the Honda City is known for its reliability and durability, it is not immune to common</span> <span>problems that can arise over time. By familiarizing yourself with these issues and knowing how</span> <span>to address them, you can ensure that your Honda City continues to provide a smooth and</span> <span>enjoyable driving experience for years to come. Remember to perform regular maintenance</span> <span>checks and address any issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into more significant</span> <span>problems. With proper care and attention, you can keep your Honda City running smoothly and</span> <span>efficiently for miles to come.</span></p>Kerrigan Advisors Represents RRR Automotive Group in Sale to Group 1 Automotivetag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-02-13:5283893:BlogPost:13750502024-02-13T13:32:25.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
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<p><em>Transaction expands Group 1’s presence in the Washington-Baltimore metropolitan region; represents Kerrigan Advisors’ 50<sup>th</sup> franchise sold in the Mid-Atlantic since 2020, making the firm the undisputed leader in dealership sell-side advisory in the region</em></p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>COLLEGE PARK, MD – February 13, 2024 –…</strong></p>
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<p><em>Transaction expands Group 1’s presence in the Washington-Baltimore metropolitan region; represents Kerrigan Advisors’ 50<sup>th</sup> franchise sold in the Mid-Atlantic since 2020, making the firm the undisputed leader in dealership sell-side advisory in the region</em></p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>COLLEGE PARK, MD – February 13, 2024 –</strong> Kerrigan Advisors, the premier sell-side advisor and thought partner to auto dealers nationwide, represented College Park, Maryland-based RRR Automotive Group in the sale of its five new car dealerships, including the #1 and #2 volume Honda dealerships in the state of Maryland, to Houston, Texas-based Group 1 Automotive (NYSE: GPI). This transaction underscores Kerrigan Advisors’ industry-leading track record selling the most valuable auto retailers nationwide and marks the 50<sup>th</sup> franchise sale in the region completed by the firm since 2020. With this transaction, Kerrigan Advisors has represented on the sale of over seven billion dollars on behalf of their dealership clients in just the last nine years, making the firm the leader in auto retail sell-side advisory nationwide.</p>
<p></p>
<p>RRR Automotive Group, founded by Dick Patterson and Robert Hisaoka in the 1990s, is one of the most valuable import groups in the Mid-Atlantic. The group includes Toyota of Bowie, Kia of Bowie, Honda of Owings Mills, Honda of Greenbelt, College Park Hyundai and Toyota Certified at Capital Plaza (one of the nation’s few stand-alone Toyota certified centers). RRR Automotive Group has served its community for over 27 years through its guiding principles - <em>Reliable, Responsible and Respectful</em>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Kerrigan Advisors’ expertise selling the most valuable dealership groups and their impeccable track record of success, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region, made them the perfect partner for this transaction. We could not have asked for a better advisor to ensure we identified the right buyer for our group and that the transaction ran smoothly from start to finish,” said Dick Patterson, CEO of RRR Automotive Group. “Gabe Robleto and the entire Kerrigan Advisors team were in lock step with us at each stage of the process, and we couldn’t have been more satisfied with the final result.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“It was a true pleasure working with RRR Automotive Group whose premier import brands and location in one of the nation’s top economies were leading drivers of the strong buyer demand for the group,” said Gabe Robleto, senior vice president, sell-side advisory at Kerrigan Advisors. “We are proud to have shepherded this important transaction to such a successful conclusion and appreciate the trust Dick Patterson and Robert Hisaoka placed in Kerrigan Advisors. I also want to congratulate Group 1 Automotive on adding these exceptional franchises to their network.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The transaction expands Group 1’s presence in the region and in the non-luxury import brand market. The Washington metropolitan region is an import-dominant market with market share at 72% – 24% higher than the US average, and RRR Automotive Group dominates the markets in which it operates, capturing 48% of Bowie, College Park, Greenbelt and Owings Mills’ import non-luxury sales since 2019. Additionally, the area is one of the nation’s most economically vibrant and fastest growing with a population of 10 million. The region’s GDP has grown at a 4% CAGR since 2001, far outpacing the US, and boasts high median household incomes, high educational attainment rates and superior quality of life rankings.</p>
<p></p>
<p>“This transaction highlights the continued strength of the buy/sell market for top import franchises in economically vibrant markets. Despite an elevated interest rate environment and cooling industry profits, dealerships remain one of the most lucrative retail investments in the country,” said Erin Kerrigan, founder and managing director of Kerrigan Advisors. “Leading consolidators continue to reinvest their tremendous profits into acquisitions, attracted to the high return on investment achievable with auto dealerships, particularly import franchises in growing economies like the Baltimore-Washington metro. We expect this sizable transaction is an indicator of another active buy/sell market in 2024.”</p>
<p></p>
<p>Steven H. Schram of Shapiro, Lifschitz & Schram served as legal counsel to RRR Automotive Group. Brian Nolen of Nolen, PLLC served as legal counsel to Group 1 Automotive.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>About Kerrigan Advisors</strong></p>
<p>Kerrigan Advisors is the leading sell-side advisor and thought partner to auto dealers nationwide. Since its founding in 2014, the firm has led the industry with the sale of over 230 dealerships generating more than $7 billion in client proceeds, including the third largest transaction in auto retail history – the sale of Jim Koons Automotive Companies to Asbury Automotive Group. The firm advises the industry’s leading dealership groups, enhancing value through the lifecycle of growing, operating and, when the time is right, selling their businesses. Led by a team of veteran industry experts with backgrounds in investment banking, private equity, accounting, finance and real estate, Kerrigan Advisors does not take listings, rather they develop a customized sales approach for each client to achieve their personal and financial goals. In addition to the firm’s sell-side advisory services, Kerrigan Advisors also provides a suite of consulting and investor services including acquisition and expansion strategies, valuation assessments and benchmarking, open point proposals and real estate advisory.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kerrigan Advisors monitors conditions in the buy/sell market and publishes an in-depth analysis each quarter in The Blue Sky Report®, which includes Kerrigan Advisors’ signature blue sky charts, multiples, and analysis for each franchise in the luxury and non-luxury segments. <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/reports/bsr-quarterly-preview"><strong>To download a preview of the report, click here.</strong></a> The firm also releases monthly The Kerrigan Index™ composed of the seven publicly traded auto retail companies with operations focused on the US market. The Kerrigan Auto Retail Index is designed to track dealership valuation trends, while also providing key insights into factors influencing auto retail. <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/kerrigan-index"><strong>To access The Kerrigan Index™, click here.</strong></a> To read the <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/dealer-survey"><strong>2023 Kerrigan Dealer Survey, click here.</strong></a> To read the <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/oem-survey"><strong>2023 Kerrigan OEM Survey, click here.</strong></a> Kerrigan Advisors also is the co-author of NADA’s Guide to Buying and Selling a Dealership.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Kerrigan Advisors Media Contact:</strong><br/> Melanie Webber (<a href="mailto:melanie@mwebbcom.com">melanie@mwebbcom.com</a>), mWEBB Communications, 949-307-1723</p>What a world it would be with a change of mindset.tag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-02-07:5283893:BlogPost:13748372024-02-07T02:49:20.000ZPhilip R Spagnolihttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/PhilSpagnoli
<p class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph" id="ember358">In our dealerships, the engine that drives success isn’t the cars, It’s the PEOPLE, culture, and processes behind the scenes.</p>
<p class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph" id="ember359">Imagine walking into a dealership where the air is full of energy, and every team member greets you with a smile that says, "Welcome, let's find your dream ride.”…</p>
<p id="ember358" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">In our dealerships, the engine that drives success isn’t the cars, It’s the PEOPLE, culture, and processes behind the scenes.</p>
<p id="ember359" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Imagine walking into a dealership where the air is full of energy, and every team member greets you with a smile that says, "Welcome, let's find your dream ride.”</p>
<p id="ember360" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">People are the heart of the dealership, from sales professionals who know every detail of the models they sell to the technical wizards in the service department who can diagnose a car with a glance and a listen. (Wishing)</p>
<p id="ember361" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">They are not just employees; they’re enthusiasts, a team, a family without department borders, and experts who bring their passion to every customer and employee interaction.</p>
<p id="ember362" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph"><strong>Imagine running any business and having the perception that you are doing so well, to find an online post or even worst hundreds of them. Everyone is talking so badly about you and how you may do business, or even worse getting personal. This alternative is not something any of us want or need to find. And with today’s technology and generations mentality. It is out there already.</strong></p>
<p id="ember363" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph"><strong>FLIPSIDE.</strong></p>
<blockquote id="ember364" class="ember-view"><strong>Imagine running any business and you’re fully staffed with raving fans, your own team of Avengers, one team, 1 family. Everything working cohesively, No drama, No turnover, thus saving your sanity! You Have so many applicants in love with your vision, you’ve got a line around the block. You now have to build the next location and continue to expand.</strong></blockquote>
<p id="ember365" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph"><strong>Having this type of culture is possible, not spending top dollar for bad habit employees out of desperation, just to fill a spot…….. Not throwing signing bonuses like you’ve become the military recruiting station. How does that air smell? Like success? I think so!</strong></p>
<p id="ember366" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">The culture within a dealership is like the oil that keeps the engine running smoothly, do you remember cash for clunkers and how much fun it was to blow up all the engines? It’s not like that!</p>
<p id="ember367" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">It's built on a foundation of trust, respect, and a shared goal of not just meeting but exceeding customer expectations as each person would act as if they owned the dealership.</p>
<p id="ember368" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">This culture champions ongoing learning and adaptability, ensuring that everyone, from the front desk to the finance office, is on top of the latest automotive trends and technologies.</p>
<p id="ember369" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Processes are the gears that turn the wheels, from the initial greeting as customers walk through the door to the final handshake when they drive off the lot. These processes are constantly being refined to make the car buying and servicing experience as seamless as possible.</p>
<p id="ember370" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">It's about creating an environment where efficiency meets empathy, tailoring every interaction to the customer's needs, preferences, and lifestyle.</p>
<p id="ember371" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Dealerships that master the art of people, communication, culture, and processes don't just sell cars; they create relationships and experiences that drive loyalty and referrals. It's a dynamic, ever-evolving world where tradition meets innovation. The road ahead may seem scary and exciting, but let’s reset and do better today for a brighter tomorrow.</p>
<p id="ember372" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Never think It’s too late or that change isn’t possible. Miserable and negative people crave spreading their misery, but positivity spreads just as fast – if not faster!</p>
<p id="ember373" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph"></p>
<p id="ember374" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Phil Spagnoli</p>
<p id="ember375" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Dealers Coach</p>
<p id="ember376" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph"><a href="http://www.dealerscoach.com">www.dealerscoach.com</a></p>Car Pros Honda El Monte Achieved Best Sales Year Ever in 2023tag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-02-01:5283893:BlogPost:13747332024-02-01T14:52:05.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12372573477?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12372573477?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600"></img></a> </p>
<p><em>Dealership ranked #6 in California for 2023; #24 in the nation, up from #40 in 2022</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>RENTON, WA – February 1, 2024 –</strong> Car Pros Automotive Group, one of the fastest growing automotive groups in the United States, announced today that Car Pros Honda El Monte delivered its best year ever selling 3,242 new Hondas,…</p>
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<p><em>Dealership ranked #6 in California for 2023; #24 in the nation, up from #40 in 2022</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>RENTON, WA – February 1, 2024 –</strong> Car Pros Automotive Group, one of the fastest growing automotive groups in the United States, announced today that Car Pros Honda El Monte delivered its best year ever selling 3,242 new Hondas, an increase of nearly 60% from the prior year. Since Car Pros acquired Honda El Monte in 2019 the dealership has experienced unprecedented growth with a 4-year CAGR of 22.43%. In April 2023, the dealership was awarded the 2022 <span><a href="https://www.prweb.com/releases/car-pros-honda-el-monte-awarded-the-honda-masters-circle-890154457.html">Honda Masters Circle</a></span>, given to the top 50 Honda dealerships in the United States in recognition of new vehicle sales volume and outstanding customer service. The dealership was ranked #40 in 2022, rising to #24 in 2023.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>In addition to the success at Car Pros Honda El Monte, 2023 was another outstanding year for the Car Pros Automotive Group as a whole, which achieved record sales of more than $1,126 billion, up from $1,031 billion in 2022.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>“I am so proud of the progress the Car Pros Honda El Monte dealership and its talented team have made since we acquired them in 2019, locking in a record year of sales and being honored with the prestigious Honda Masters Circle Award in 2023,” said Matthew Phillips, CEO of Car Pros Automotive Group. “When we acquired the dealership, we saw in its combination of high-quality brand, community and terrific team, a tremendous potential for success. And that success came, in no small part, because of the El Monte team’s commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity, focusing on understanding and knowing their customers, and creating a safe environment and a positive workplace where all people can grow and thrive.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Founded in 1993 by the Phillips family, Car Pros began as a small used car lot with just two employees. Together with his family, Matthew Phillips built Car Pros into a leading automotive sales and service group with more than 700 employees and nine dealerships in Western Washington and Southern California, selling over 2,400 cars per month. Car Pros is the 45<sup>th</sup> largest auto group in the nation, and serves customers in the communities of Renton, Tacoma, Glendale, Los Angeles, Huntington Beach, and Moreno Valley.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Matthew Phillips was named one of Automotive News Notable Champions of Diversity in 2023, and winner of the Silver Stevie® Award for Maverick of the Year in the 2023 American Business Awards®. He is a next-generation leader who brings in-the-trenches experience to his vision of changing lives through high performance dealerships and creating opportunity through excellence. His philosophy is based on five core competencies: professionalism, expertise, development, accountability, and leadership.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“As I reflect on the incredible year we’ve had, with records set at all of our Car Pros dealerships, I can clearly see that our vision of changing lives is translating into making our auto group a great place for our employees to work and a great place for our customers to shop," concluded Phillips.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About Car Pros Automotive Group<br/></strong> Car Pros Automotive Group is a leading automotive sales and service group, with dealerships representing Kia, Hyundai, Honda, BMW and MINI. Founded in 1993 by Ken Phillips, Car Pros currently has annual sales of $1 billion and is the top selling Kia retailer in the nation, having retailed over 175,000 new Kia models. The retailer is committed to changing lives through high-performance and values-led dealerships. Led by CEO Matthew Phillips, Car Pros is shaping the future of automotive retail: Franchise, professional, tech-savvy, values driven, and people focused. Visit <span><a href="https://www.carpros.com">https://www.carpros.com</a></span> to learn more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Media Contacts:<br/></strong> Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, angela@mwebbcom.com, (714) 454-8776<br/> Melanie Webber, mWEBB Communications, melanie@mwebbcom.com, (949) 307-1723</p>Nearly 40% of Credit Unions Expect Auto Finance Portfolio Growth in 2024, But Most Expect Liquidity Crisis to Continue through First Half of 2024tag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-02-01:5283893:BlogPost:13750252024-02-01T14:30:00.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><em>CUs show some optimism for the 2024 auto finance market, predicting an easing of extended loan terms and interest rates dropping, according to a new CULA survey; most CUs plan to leverage the benefits of auto dealer relationships by increasing them in 2024</em></p>
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<p><strong>San Diego, CA…</strong></p>
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<p> <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12372574294?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12372574294?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>CUs show some optimism for the 2024 auto finance market, predicting an easing of extended loan terms and interest rates dropping, according to a new CULA survey; most CUs plan to leverage the benefits of auto dealer relationships by increasing them in 2024</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>San Diego, CA</strong> <strong>– January 31, 2024</strong> – Credit Union worries about liquidity will continue into 2024, according to Credit Union Leasing of America’s (CULA) recent “Future of Auto Finance” snapshot survey of credit union professionals, with 48% anticipating the liquidity crisis will last for another one to two years or more, and only 9% seeing signs of it abating.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Nevertheless, the online survey, which was fielded in January 2024, also indicates that 59% of credit unions are viewing 2024 with some optimism (although over one-third are ‘apprehensive’), with 39% expecting growth in their auto finance portfolios in 2024 and only 16% expecting it to decline. There will also be a significant change/drop in interest rates in 2024 predict over 74% of credit union professionals surveyed, although one in four don’t expect that change until 2025.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>And one thing respondents were nearly unanimous about (95%) is the benefit to their members of credit union relationships with auto dealers, with over 70% saying they plan to deepen/increase those relationships in 2024.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“While our survey indicates that there is still some apprehension among credit unions about the auto finance landscape in the year ahead, there are many positive signs – especially that 85% expect no decline in their auto finance portfolios in 2024, and most are indicating that the trends of extended loan terms as well as high interest rates are easing up,” said <span>Mark Chandler</span>, Vice President of Business Development for CULA. "Many of the credit union professionals we surveyed are looking to further enhance their relationships with auto dealers, which we see as significant because those relationships offer many benefits, including streamlining the loan approval process, more customized loan packets for CU members, and allowing dealers to offer <span>more options, greater lending solutions, and more flexibility.”</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The results of the survey are in line with recent data from Experian which reported continuing stabilization in the auto finance market, with more consumers opting for shorter term loans on new vehicles.<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1"><span>[1]</span></a> In the CULA survey, 86% of respondents say they don’t expect to extend loan terms any further in 2024, a contrast from CULA’s <a href="https://www.cula.com/credit-unions-worry-most-about-over-extension-on-used-vehicle-loans-says-new-survey-but-long-term-loans-still-proliferate/">mid 2023</a> survey in which the majority of respondents had cited over-extension on used loans as their biggest concern about the 2023 auto finance landscape.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Recent reporting from Experian shows that vehicle affordability is beginning to improve while loan terms are decreasing. That being said, the average monthly new auto loan payment was $726 vs $597 for a lease, and the average term of a new vehicle loan was 68.26 vs 36.18 months for a lease in Q3 2023.<a href="#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2"><span>[2]</span></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>This perhaps explains why nearly 60% of credit union professionals surveyed by CULA say they believe vehicle leasing would be a positive addition to their finance portfolio in 2024 – data that is borne out by the uptick in new vehicle leasing also reported by Experian: from 21.15% in 2022 to 27.37% in 2023.<a href="#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3"><span>[3]</span></a> Said Melinda Zabritski of Experian at CUNA.org recently: “With shorter loan terms and the average price difference from loan to lease, it’s not uncommon to see consumers lean toward more budget-friendly options.”<a href="#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4"><span>[4]</span></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>"Our survey results indicate that CUs are finally getting back to some normalcy and, most importantly, that the industry will survive the liquidity crisis of 2023," continued Chandler. "</span>We are especially pleased to see that credit unions are increasingly interested in exploring the benefits of adding vehicle leasing to their portfolios.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><em>Key Survey Takeaways</em></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>83% expect the liquidity crisis to last for at least six months to one year or more, with 48% anticipating it will last for one to two years or more.</li>
<li>74% expect a significant drop in interest rates in 2024, with 26% saying 2025 at the earliest.</li>
<li>86% don’t expect further extension of their loan terms in 2024.</li>
<li>85% expect their portfolio to grow or remain flat (46%) in 2024.</li>
<li>59% are somewhat (53%) or very (6%) optimistic about the auto finance market in 2024, with 36% apprehensive and 5% pessimistic.</li>
<li>59% think that vehicle leasing would be a positive addition to their finance portfolio in 2024, with 30% unsure.</li>
<li>95% view partnering with dealerships on auto financing and vehicle leasing as a positive for their members.</li>
<li>71% plan to deepen or increase partnerships with auto dealers in 2024.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>The “Future of Auto Finance” Snapshot Survey was conducted online January 4th through January 25th, 2024 among 90+ credit union professionals.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About Credit Union Leasing of America</strong></p>
<p>Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) has been the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 30 years. Founded in 1988, CULA provides best-in-class program assistance, analytics reporting, compliance support, dealer management tools and member services. The CULA indirect vehicle leasing program empowers credit union innovators to diversify their existing loan portfolios, improve yield and expand member services. Visit <a href="https://www.cula.com/">https://www.cula.com/</a> to learn more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p>
<p>Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, angela(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, (714) 454-8776</p>
<p>Melanie Webber, mWEBB Communications, melanie(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, (949) 307-1723</p>
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<p><a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1"><span>[1]</span></a> <a href="https://www.experian.com/blogs/insights/the-automotive-finance-market-shows-signs-of-optimism-in-q3-2023/#:~:text=According%20to%20Experian">https://www.experian.com/blogs/insights/the-automotive-finance-market-shows-signs-of-optimism-in-q3-2023/#:~:text=According%20to%20Experian</a>'s%20State%20of,%2427%2C167%20year%2Dover%2Dyear</p>
<p><a href="#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2"><span>[2]</span></a> Experian State of the Automotive Finance Market Q3 2023 <a href="https://www.experian.com/content/dam/noindex/na/us/automotive/finance-trends/experian-safm.pdf">https://www.experian.com/content/dam/noindex/na/us/automotive/finance-trends/experian-safm.pdf</a></p>
<p><a href="#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3"><span>[3]</span></a> Experian State of the Automotive Finance Market Q3 2023 <a href="https://www.experian.com/content/dam/noindex/na/us/automotive/finance-trends/experian-safm.pdf">https://www.experian.com/content/dam/noindex/na/us/automotive/finance-trends/experian-safm.pdf</a></p>
<p><a href="#_ftnref4" name="_ftn4"><span>[4]</span></a> <a href="https://news.cuna.org/articles/123161-vehicle-loan-terms-decrease-as-interest-rates-rise">https://news.cuna.org/articles/123161-vehicle-loan-terms-decrease-as-interest-rates-rise</a></p>
<p> </p>90% of Auto Dealers/Lenders Link AI-based Pricing to Inaccurate Quotestag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-01-31:5283893:BlogPost:13750222024-01-31T15:01:02.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p><em>New survey from eLEND Solutions underscores challenges of delivering accurate online payment quotes,</em> <em>including reduced lender transparency, mismatched desking/lender decisions, consumer-provided credit scores, all of which results in anything but ‘penny-perfect’ payment quotes</em></p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Foothill Ranch, Calif.</strong> – <strong>January 31, 2024</strong> – A new snapshot survey of auto dealers and lenders, from automotive fintech innovator eLEND Solutions,…</p>
<p><em>New survey from eLEND Solutions underscores challenges of delivering accurate online payment quotes,</em> <em>including reduced lender transparency, mismatched desking/lender decisions, consumer-provided credit scores, all of which results in anything but ‘penny-perfect’ payment quotes</em></p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Foothill Ranch, Calif.</strong> – <strong>January 31, 2024</strong> – A new snapshot survey of auto dealers and lenders, from automotive fintech innovator eLEND Solutions, reveals that 90% believe that AI-based pricing is contributing to inaccurate online payment quotes which, the vast majority say, is having an adverse impact on the buying experience. Other key obstacles to delivering accurate online payment quotes, cited by survey respondents, include a reduction in lender transparency, mistimed and mismatched desking/lender decisions, and reliance on consumer-provided credit scores, all of which are contributing to payment quotes that are anything but ‘penny perfect.’</p>
<p> <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12369306074?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12369306074?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Over three-quarters of dealers and lenders in our survey say that the desked-deal and final decision match 50% or <em>less</em> of the time,” said Pete MacInnis, Founder and CEO of eLEND Solutions. “That is an astonishing number, but one that doesn’t surprise us. This mismatch, born of multiple factors uncovered in our survey, creates deep friction in the buying process, impacting CSI, profits and more.”</p>
<p></p>
<p>One of the Achilles’ heels of accurate payment quotes is the lack of relevant, objective information actually driving online payment quotes: according to 64% of dealer/lender respondents, today’s online quotes are primarily driven by <em>consumer-provided</em> credit score information.</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12369306495?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12369306495?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>That, coupled with a faulty perception of what ‘penny-perfect payments’ in digital retailing actually means – 57% tie it to jurisdiction sales tax, license and registration fees versus those details <em>PLUS</em> actual customer pre-qualified to a specific lender decision (43%) - makes it no mystery why, for the vast majority (76%), digital retail payment quotes match final lender decisions less than 25% of the time, with only 4% saying they match more than 50% of the time.</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12369307064?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12369307064?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="600" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p>Adding further challenge is the fact that over half of lenders and dealers report that payment terms are negotiated with the online customer <em>before</em> a lender decision. “Talk about putting the cart before the horse,” said MacInnis. “Negotiating payment terms before a lender decision is a recipe for consumer dissatisfaction and deal rewinds.” In fact, over 70% of respondents agree that having finance involved in the deal flow <em>prior</em> to the first pencil, digitally or otherwise, would improve the process for all parties.</p>
<p></p>
<p>The snap survey was conducted by eLEND Solutions online among over 300 auto dealers/lenders in December 2023. While the survey respondents were predominantly auto dealers (76% dealer/24% lender), the results were extraordinarily consistent across both cohorts. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>“It was important for us to hear from lenders in this survey and it was remarkable how in sync they were with dealers: for example, the vast majority of both segments agree that not only has there been a reduction in lenders providing critical rate sheet pricing bulletins (87%), but also that AI-based pricing is a key culprit of inaccurate payment quotes (90%),” said MacInnis.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Lenders and dealers also appear to be aligned in what it will take to solve these challenges: 94% say that pre-desking technology, integrated with lender proprietary credit scorecard models, would improve the car buying/selling experience for all parties.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“The challenges to today’s digital finance are solvable, but only when our industry is willing to come together to change processes, increase transparency and embrace tools that enable sales and finance to begin together at the start of the transaction,” continued MacInnis. “The last time we saw disruption around lender dealer communication was twenty years ago when the big players got together to eliminate the ‘faxes’ between dealers and lenders. The results of this survey clearly demonstrate that the time for collaboration on the next big disruption has come.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><em>Key Survey Takeaways</em></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>86% of respondents think inaccurate online digital retailing payment quotes have an adverse impact on buying experiences. (89% Dealers/84% of Lenders).</li>
<li>90% of respondents say that AI based pricing at the customer qualification level (rather than legacy credit tier band pricing}, is contributing to inaccurate online payment quotes. (91% Dealer/85% Lenders)</li>
<li>The Digital Retailing term “Penny Perfect Payments” means “payments tied to jurisdiction sales tax, license and registration fees,” for 57% overall. Only 43% said “payments tied to jurisdiction sales tax, license and registration fees,” <em>PLUS</em> actual customer pre-qualified to a specific lender decision.” Lenders were more likely to say the latter (52%) than Dealers (42%)</li>
<li>‘Customer-provided credit score estimate’ is the feature that most commonly powers initial online digital retailing payment quotes, according to 64% of respondents; ‘actual FICO scores’ (17%), and ‘basic calculator tools’ (15%) lagged far behind, with ‘actual lender decisions’ dead last at 4%.</li>
<li>Initial digital retail payment quotes <em>match</em> final lender decisions less than half the time say 96% of respondents, with 76% saying they match less than 25% of the time. (74% Dealers/79% Lenders)</li>
<li>87% overall agree that has there been a reduction in Lenders providing rate-sheet pricing bulletins (89% Dealers/83% Lenders)</li>
<li>Lender loan pricing models are predominantly driven by ‘credit score plus other credit attributes and advance guidelines’ say 66% of Dealers and 57% of Lenders.</li>
<li>54% overall say that payment terms are negotiated with the online customer <em>before</em> the Lender decision.</li>
<li>The desked deal matches final lender decisions less than 50% of the time say 72% of respondents.</li>
<li>74% agree that having finance involved in the deal flow <em>prior</em> to the first pencil, digitally or otherwise, would improve the process for all parties, with Dealers indexing higher (78%) on this than Lenders (69%)</li>
<li>94% overall say that pre-desking technology, integrated with lender proprietary credit scorecard models, would improve the car buying/selling experience for all parties. (94% Dealer/92% Lender).</li>
</ul>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>About eLEND Solutions</strong><br/> eLEND Solutions™ (formerly DealerCentric) is an automotive FinTech company providing a middleware solution designed to power transactional digital retailing buying experiences for the retail automotive industry. The platform specializes in hybrid credit report, identity verification, and ‘pre-desking’ solutions, accelerating end-to-end purchase experiences - concluding with a transactable, fundable deal structure.</p>
<p>For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.elendsolutions.com">www.elendsolutions.com</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Contact Media Relations:</strong></p>
<p>Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, (714) 454-8776, angela(at)mwebbcom(dot)com</p>
<p>Crystal Hartwell, mWEBB Communications, (714) 987-1016, crystal(at)mwebbcom(dot)com</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Car Pros Automotive Group Achieved Record Breaking Year in 2023tag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-01-31:5283893:BlogPost:13747272024-01-31T14:29:08.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p><em>Car Pros new Kia sales reached 15,595 in 2023, bringing lifetime sales to 177,418; Car Pros Kia Glendale #1 in the nation</em></p>
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<p><strong>RENTON, WA – January 31, 2024 –</strong> Car Pros Automotive Group, a leading automotive sales and service group, announced today that 2023 was its best year ever in new Kia sales, setting a record and selling a total of 15,595 vehicles, up nearly 10% year-over-year. Car Pros Kia Glendale finished #1 in the nation with 6,549 new Kias sold.…</p>
<p><em>Car Pros new Kia sales reached 15,595 in 2023, bringing lifetime sales to 177,418; Car Pros Kia Glendale #1 in the nation</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>RENTON, WA – January 31, 2024 –</strong> Car Pros Automotive Group, a leading automotive sales and service group, announced today that 2023 was its best year ever in new Kia sales, setting a record and selling a total of 15,595 vehicles, up nearly 10% year-over-year. Car Pros Kia Glendale finished #1 in the nation with 6,549 new Kias sold. Underscoring the strength of the group, all five Car Pros Kia dealerships delivered record new Kia sales in 2023. Additionally, Car Pros retailed 1,463 new Kia EVs, more than 6% of the national total, and ranked in four of the top five spots nationally, with Car Pros Kia Glendale taking the top spot for Kia EV sales in the nation. </p>
<p></p>
<p>“Our Kia dealerships continue to drive extraordinary results with sales up nearly 10%. I am so proud of the Car Pros team, whose dedication to customer service and operational excellence has been instrumental in achieving this success,” said Matthew Phillips, CEO of Car Pros Automotive Group. “2023 was an exceptional year for us on many fronts. In addition to our Kia Glendale dealership taking the top ranking, we won the sales crown for the fourth time since 2018 and three of our dealerships were honored as exclusive members of Kia America's Presidents Club.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Car Pros was founded in 1993 by the Phillips family as a small used car lot with two employees. Together with his family, Matthew Phillips built Car Pros into one of the fastest growing dealership groups in the United States today with more than 700 employees and nine dealerships in Western Washington and Southern California, selling over 2,400 cars per month. Car Pros serves customers in the communities of Renton, Tacoma, Glendale, Los Angeles, Huntington Beach, and Moreno Valley. Car Pros is committed to changing lives through high-performance and values-led dealerships.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>2023 was an outstanding year for Car Pros Automotive Group as a whole, which achieved record sales of more than $1,126 billion, up from $1,031 billion in 2022. On top of this success, Car Pros continued to expand its footprint, entering the luxury brand category in 2023 through the acquisition of two dealerships from Los Angeles-based Nick Alexander Imports, including Nick Alexander BMW, Nick Alexander MINI, as well as their collision center. The dealerships were rebranded to BMW of Downtown LA and MINI of Downtown LA.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Matthew Phillips and the Car Pros team are committed advocates for franchise auto retail and for electric vehicles. Kia and Hyundai, which are both Car Pros brands, jointly captured the number two slot in 2023 in U.S. electric-vehicle sales<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1"><sup>[1]</sup></a>. According to Phillips, “We are bullish on EVs at Car Pros and on the exceptional quality of Kia and Hyundai vehicles, as are our customers, who have helped us become the #1 Kia EV dealer in the nation. Car Pros’ team of EV, Hybrid and ICE vehicle repair and sales experts across our dealerships have been key to this success.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About Car Pros Automotive Group<br/></strong> Car Pros Automotive Group is a leading automotive sales and service group, with dealerships representing Kia, Hyundai, Honda, BMW and MINI. Founded in 1993 by Ken Phillips, Car Pros currently has annual sales of $1 billion and is the top selling Kia retailer in the nation, having retailed over 175,000 new Kia models. The retailer is committed to changing lives through high-performance and values-led dealerships. Led by CEO Matthew Phillips, Car Pros is shaping the future of automotive retail: Franchise, professional, tech-savvy, values driven, and people focused. Visit <span><a href="https://www.carpros.com">https://www.carpros.com</a></span> to learn more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Media Contacts:<br/></strong> Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, angela@mwebbcom.com, (714) 454-8776<br/> Melanie Webber, mWEBB Communications, melanie@mwebbcom.com, (949) 307-1723</p>
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<p></p>
<p><a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1"><span>[1]</span></a> The Wall Street Journal, January 2024: <span><a href="https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/hyundai-and-kia-emerge-as-teslas-biggest-u-s-rivals-bc610384">https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/hyundai-and-kia-emerge-as-teslas-biggest-u-s-rivals-bc610384</a></span></p>Revolutionizing Dealers Through Innovative Strategies It's What We Dotag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-01-29:5283893:BlogPost:13750202024-01-29T22:39:26.000ZPhilip R Spagnolihttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/PhilSpagnoli
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<p class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph"><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12368155857?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12368155857?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></p>
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<p class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph"><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12368155857?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12368155857?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">"Explore Dealers Coach's transformative approach to dealer consulting. Led by Phil Spagnoli, discover how tailored strategies, modernized training, and holistic solutions can drive your dealership towards sustainable success and innovation. Read on to learn more about our unique, effective methodologies.</p>
<h3 id="ember491" class="ember-view">The Story</h3>
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<p id="ember493" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">The automotive dealership industry is an ever-evolving landscape, marked by rapid changes in technology, consumer expectations, and market dynamics. In this highly competitive sector, dealerships are constantly seeking innovative ways to optimize their operations, enhance customer experience, and improve profitability. This is where Dealers Coach comes in, offering a fresh and transformative approach to automotive consulting. Led by Phil Spagnoli, a seasoned expert with a 30-year tenure in the industry, Dealers Coach provides a unique blend of hands-on experience and modernized strategies to revolutionize dealership operations.</p>
<p id="ember494" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">In this blog post, we delve into Phil Spagnoli's journey through the automotive world, the distinctive methodology of Dealers Coach, and how their approach is redefining dealership success. We will explore how Dealers Coach is not just changing the game but rewriting the rules for a more dynamic, efficient, and prosperous automotive dealership environment.</p>
<h3 id="ember495" class="ember-view">Phil's Journey in the Automotive Industry</h3>
<p id="ember496" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Phil Spagnoli's career in the automotive industry is a story of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated understanding of dealership dynamics. It began over three decades ago, in the humble setting of a wash bay, laying the groundwork for a journey marked by growth, learning, and leadership. This journey saw Phil ascending through nearly every role imaginable within a dealership, gaining invaluable insights and experience along the way.</p>
<p id="ember497" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">His roles have spanned from frontline positions to pivotal leadership posts, such as Fixed Ops Director and Variable Ops Manager, in various West Coast dealerships. This comprehensive exposure has endowed Phil with a holistic perspective of dealership operations, an understanding not just of the 'what' and 'how', but critically, the 'why' behind every process and practice.</p>
<p id="ember498" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">A significant milestone in Phil's career is his graduation from the prestigious NADA academy, further solidifying his expertise in dealership management. The last eight years have seen him focus intensely on Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Dealership Management System (DMS) aspects, allowing him to unearth and address operational inefficiencies that often go unnoticed.</p>
<p id="ember499" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Phil's journey is not just a testament to his individual growth but serves as a rich repository of knowledge and experience that he brings to Dealers Coach, ready to be leveraged to transform other dealerships.</p>
<h3 id="ember500" class="ember-view">The Dealers Coach Methodology</h3>
<p id="ember501" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">At the heart of Dealers Coach is a revolutionary consulting approach, one that is distinctively different from traditional models. This methodology is rooted in a top-down accountability model, ensuring that every level of the dealership operates with a consistent standard of excellence and efficiency. Central to this approach is the belief that effective management and operational success start from the top and cascade through every tier of the dealership.</p>
<p id="ember502" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Regular on-site reviews form a cornerstone of the Dealers Coach strategy. These reviews are not mere formalities; they are comprehensive assessments that dive deep into the dealership's operations, identifying areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. This hands-on approach ensures that the strategies developed are not only theoretically sound but practically applicable and tailored to each dealership's unique needs and circumstances.</p>
<p id="ember503" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Another key aspect of the Dealers Coach methodology is the rigorous adherence to key performance indicators (KPIs). In a data-driven industry like automotive retail, KPIs serve as crucial metrics to gauge performance, set goals, and drive continuous improvement. By focusing on the right KPIs, Dealers Coach helps dealerships align their efforts with their business objectives, ensuring a path to sustained growth and success.</p>
<p id="ember504" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">This methodology is comprehensive, addressing every aspect of dealership management from sales and service to finance and customer relations. It's an approach that doesn't just aim to fix problems but to transform the dealership into a more efficient, profitable, and customer-centric enterprise.</p>
<h3 id="ember505" class="ember-view">Customized Onboarding and Talent Development</h3>
<p id="ember506" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">A significant pillar of the Dealers Coach approach is its emphasis on customized onboarding and internal talent development. Recognizing that each department within a dealership has its unique challenges and opportunities, Dealers Coach tailors its onboarding process to meet these specific needs. This bespoke approach ensures that each team member is not just well-versed in their role but is also aligned with the dealership's broader objectives and culture.</p>
<p id="ember507" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">This strategy extends beyond initial onboarding. Dealers Coach advocates for continuous professional development, nurturing talent from within the organization. This approach is not just cost-effective, reducing the need for external recruitment, but also promotes a sense of loyalty and career progression among the staff. By investing in their people, dealerships foster a more engaged, skilled, and motivated workforce.</p>
<p id="ember508" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">The training methodologies employed are modern and dynamic, designed to resonate with today's workforce. They move away from the 'one-size-fits-all' training programs of the past, embracing more interactive, hands-on, and technology-driven methods. This approach not only enhances learning outcomes but also prepares employees to meet the evolving demands of the automotive retail industry.</p>
<p id="ember509" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">In essence, Dealers Coach transforms training from a routine procedure to a strategic tool for dealership success, creating an environment where employees are not just working but thriving and growing.</p>
<h3 id="ember510" class="ember-view">Transforming Dealership Work Environments</h3>
<p id="ember511" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">A core mission of Dealers Coach is to transform the traditional dealership environment into a dynamic and innovative workspace. This transformation goes beyond mere physical changes; it's about revolutionizing the very culture and ethos of the dealership. The aim is to break away from the predictable and often stagnant industry norms, creating a workplace that is vibrant, forward-thinking, and adaptable to the evolving demands of the automotive market.</p>
<p id="ember512" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">This shift involves embracing new technologies and processes, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, and creating an atmosphere that encourages creativity and innovation. By doing so, Dealers Coach helps dealerships move away from the "that's how it's always been done" mentality, towards a mindset that is open to new ideas and approaches.</p>
<p id="ember513" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">The result of this transformation is a dealership that is not just more efficient and profitable, but also a more enjoyable place to work. Employees in such an environment feel valued and are more likely to be engaged in their work, leading to better performance, higher customer satisfaction, and ultimately, a more successful dealership.</p>
<p id="ember514" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">In this new era of automotive retail, Dealers Coach is at the forefront of guiding dealerships into a future where they are not just surviving, but thriving.</p>
<h3 id="ember515" class="ember-view">A Holistic Approach for Sustainable Success</h3>
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<p id="ember518" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Dealers Coach advocates for a holistic approach to dealership management, one that encompasses all aspects of the business – from sales and service to customer relations and finance. This comprehensive strategy is geared towards creating sustainable success by ensuring that every facet of the dealership is optimized and aligned with the overall business objectives.</p>
<p id="ember519" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">The philosophy here is that each department within a dealership is not an isolated entity but part of a larger, interconnected system. By taking a holistic view, Dealers Coach ensures that improvements in one area positively impact others, leading to a synergistic effect that drives the entire dealership forward.</p>
<p id="ember520" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">This approach involves a thorough analysis of dealership operations, identifying areas where processes can be streamlined, performance can be enhanced, and customer satisfaction can be elevated. By addressing these aspects in a cohesive manner, Dealers Coach helps dealerships unearth inefficiencies, refine their operations, and ultimately, enhance their overall performance.</p>
<p id="ember521" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">The result is a dealership that operates with greater efficiency, achieves higher profitability, and provides a better experience for both employees and customers – a true embodiment of sustainable business practices in the modern automotive industry.</p>
<h3 id="ember522" class="ember-view">Tailoring Solutions for Unique Dealership Needs</h3>
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<p id="ember524" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">One of the key tenets of Dealers Coach's philosophy is the recognition that every dealership is unique. This understanding is crucial in providing effective consulting services. Dealers Coach prides itself on its ability to tailor solutions to meet the specific needs and challenges of each dealership it works with. This bespoke approach ensures that the strategies and solutions provided are not just effective but also relevant and practical for each specific dealership scenario.</p>
<p id="ember525" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">The process begins with a thorough understanding of the dealership's mission, values, and goals. This understanding forms the foundation for developing customized strategies that align with the dealership's unique identity and objectives. Whether it's a family-owned business with a rich history or a modern dealership embracing cutting-edge technology, Dealers Coach adapts its consulting approach to fit the specific mold of each client.</p>
<p id="ember526" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">This tailored approach extends to all aspects of dealership operations, from sales strategies and customer service protocols to staff training and technology adoption. By respecting the individuality of each dealership and providing personalized solutions, Dealers Coach ensures that each client receives the most effective and efficient path to success.</p>
<p id="ember527" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">The ultimate goal is to help each dealership uncover and champion its unique mission, fostering a business model that is not only successful but also authentic and true to its core values.</p>
<h3 id="ember528" class="ember-view">Conclusion and how you can get started</h3>
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<p id="ember530" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">As we've explored throughout this blog post, the landscape of automotive dealerships is changing rapidly, and staying ahead requires a blend of traditional know-how and modern, innovative strategies. This is precisely where Dealers Coach steps in – offering a unique, holistic approach that transforms dealership operations into more efficient, profitable, and customer-centric enterprises.</p>
<p id="ember531" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Phil Spagnoli, with his extensive experience and innovative vision, leads Dealers Coach in providing customized solutions that are not just theoretical concepts but practical, actionable strategies tailored to each dealership's unique needs. From nurturing talent from within to embracing digital transformation, Dealers Coach is dedicated to revolutionizing the dealership experience for employees and customers alike.</p>
<p id="ember532" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">If you're looking to break away from the <strong>"we've always done it this way"</strong>mindset and propel your dealership into a future of success and sustainability, Dealers Coach is your ideal partner.</p>
<p id="ember533" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">We invite you to take the first step towards transforming your dealership. Reach out to us for a no-charge financial statement review and a secret shop assessment to gain a baseline understanding of where your dealership stands and the heights it can reach.</p>
<p id="ember534" class="ember-view reader-content-blocks__paragraph">Every dealership has its unique story and mission. Let Dealers Coach help you uncover yours and turn it into your greatest strength.</p>Kerrigan Advisors Represents Jim Price Auto Group in Sale of Chevrolet Dealershiptag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-01-09:5283893:BlogPost:13745812024-01-09T14:14:39.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p><em>Sale of Jim Price’s flagship Chevrolet franchise, one of the industry’s strongest domestic brands, is final and third sale for the Virginia-based auto group, all represented by Kerrigan Advisors -- and the 23<sup>rd</sup> franchise sale in Virginia for Kerrigan Advisors since 2020</em></p>
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<p><strong>Charlottesville, VA – January 9, 2024 –</strong> Kerrigan Advisors, the premier sell-side advisor and thought partner to auto dealers nationwide, represented Charlottesville,…</p>
<p><em>Sale of Jim Price’s flagship Chevrolet franchise, one of the industry’s strongest domestic brands, is final and third sale for the Virginia-based auto group, all represented by Kerrigan Advisors -- and the 23<sup>rd</sup> franchise sale in Virginia for Kerrigan Advisors since 2020</em></p>
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<p><strong>Charlottesville, VA – January 9, 2024 –</strong> Kerrigan Advisors, the premier sell-side advisor and thought partner to auto dealers nationwide, represented Charlottesville, Virginia-based Jim Price Auto Group in the sale of Jim Price Chevrolet to Malloy Auto Group, which has operated in the Virginia area since 1992. Kerrigan previously represented Jim Price in the sale of its Hyundai and Kia dealerships in 2023. This marks the 23<sup>rd</sup> franchise sale in Virginia completed by Kerrigan Advisors since 2020.</p>
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<p>Jim Price opened Price Chevrolet 56 years ago in 1968 and it has operated with great success from its existing location on Seminole Trail for the past 46 years. In 2017, Price’s daughter, Sandra Price Amato, became the dealer principal for Jim Price Auto, continuing the family’s legacy as one of Charlottesville’s top dealer groups.</p>
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<p>“This sale of our Chevrolet dealership, the final of our three auto group franchises to sell, represents the end of an era -- as well as a new beginning for the dealership and for our family. For this very significant moment in our history, we wanted an advisor with a track record of completing high value transactions across the country, and one with particular expertise in the Virginia market. Kerrigan fulfilled that, and more,” said Amato. “They were there for us every step of the way, through all three transactions; and, for the sale of this, our flagship dealership, they found in Malloy a buyer well-suited to the needs of the franchise and the community. We are grateful for the attentive, hands-on, white glove service we received from Gabe Roleto and the entire Kerrigan Advisors team.”</p>
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<p>In addition to the dealership’s legacy, its prime market location and real estate were key components in the transaction: Price Chevrolet is located on over 10 acres in a prime retail location on Seminole Trail and Charlottesville is a growing, affluent market with an attractive cost of living, a highly educated workforce, high quality of life, high median household incomes and low cost of living. Notably, in 2023, Virginia ranked as the #2 Top State for Business by CNBC, while Charlottesville was recognized on the Top 100 Best Places to Live in America by Livability.com. </p>
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<p>“It was an honor to work on this transaction with Sandra Price, COO Sandy Fewell, and her entire team. This is the 3<sup>rd</sup> dealership we have had the pleasure of closing with the group in the last 6 months,” said Gabe Robleto, Senior Vice President, Sell-Side Advisory at Kerrigan Advisors. “Jim Price Auto Group’s 50 years of auto retail success, their reputation for superlative service, the power of the Chevrolet brand and the dealership’s prime real estate made it a very attractive acquisition that generated strong interest from buyers. We were pleased to have been able to help transition the dealership to an auto group with the business values, scope and reputation to continue the Jim Price Chevrolet legacy.”</p>
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<p>Chevrolet is the fastest growing volume domestic brand in the US by new unit sales, increasing US light vehicle sales by 13.1% in 2023. In 2023, J.D. Power ranked Chevrolet #4 for vehicle quality, far ahead of its biggest competitor, Ford, and 16% stronger than the US average. </p>
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<p>“This transaction is another example of the appeal to buyers of high value franchises in growing, high quality-of-life and business-friendly markets. It also underscores that the buy/sell market is seeing more and more dealership groups adding scale to their regional platforms through local acquisitions,” said Erin Kerrigan, founder and managing director of Kerrigan Advisors. “We are proud to have closed what has been a record last twelve months of dealership buy/sells for both Kerrigan Advisors and the industry by helping the superlative Jim Price Auto Group sell its final dealership in a market that we know so well.”</p>
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<p>Barrett Charapp Beaty of Mahdavi Bacon Halfhill & Young, PLLC served as legal counsel to Jim Price. Cari Lyn Pierce of Williams Mullens served as legal counsel to Malloy Auto Group.</p>
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<p><strong>About Kerrigan Advisors</strong></p>
<p>Kerrigan Advisors is the leading sell-side advisor and thought partner to auto dealers nationwide. Since its founding in 2014, the firm has led the industry with the sale of over 225 dealerships representing more than $7 billion in client proceeds, including the third largest transaction in auto retail history – the sale of Jim Koons Automotive Companies to Asbury Automotive Group. The firm advises the industry’s leading dealership groups, enhancing value through the lifecycle of growing, operating and, when the time is right, selling their businesses. Led by a team of veteran industry experts with backgrounds in investment banking, private equity, accounting, finance and real estate, Kerrigan Advisors does not take listings, rather they develop a customized sales approach for each client to achieve their personal and financial goals. In addition to the firm’s sell-side advisory services, Kerrigan Advisors also provides a suite of consulting and investor services including growth strategy, market valuation assessments, capital allocation, transactional due diligence, open point proposals, operational improvement and real estate due diligence.</p>
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<p>Kerrigan Advisors monitors conditions in the buy/sell market and publishes an in-depth analysis each quarter in The Blue Sky Report®, which includes Kerrigan Advisors’ signature blue sky charts, multiples, and analysis for each franchise in the luxury and non-luxury segments. <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/reports/bsr-quarterly-preview"><strong>To download a preview of the report, click here.</strong></a> The firm also releases monthly The Kerrigan Index™ composed of the seven publicly traded auto retail companies with operations focused on the US market. The Kerrigan Auto Retail Index is designed to track dealership valuation trends, while also providing key insights into factors influencing auto retail. <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/kerrigan-index"><strong>To access The Kerrigan Index™, click here.</strong></a> To read the <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/dealer-survey"><strong>2023 Kerrigan Dealer Survey, click here.</strong></a> To read the <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/oem-survey"><strong>2023 Kerrigan OEM Survey, click here.</strong></a> Kerrigan Advisors also is the co-author of NADA’s Guide to Buying and Selling a Dealership.</p>
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<p><strong>Kerrigan Advisors Media Contact:</strong><br/> Melanie Webber (<a href="mailto:melanie@mwebbcom.com">melanie@mwebbcom.com</a>), mWEBB Communications, 949-307-1723</p>Mountain America Credit Union selects CULA for Indirect Vehicle Leasingtag:www.dealerelite.net,2024-01-09:5283893:BlogPost:13744972024-01-09T14:06:46.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
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<p><em>The leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions further broadens its reach in the western U.S. as it partners with the tenth largest credit union in the U.S.</em></p>
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<p><strong>San Diego, CA & Sandy, UT – January 9, 2024</strong> – Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA), the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 30 years, today announced that it has been selected by Utah-based Mountain…</p>
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<p><em>The leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions further broadens its reach in the western U.S. as it partners with the tenth largest credit union in the U.S.</em></p>
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<p><strong>San Diego, CA & Sandy, UT – January 9, 2024</strong> – Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA), the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 30 years, today announced that it has been selected by Utah-based Mountain America Credit Union, to bring the flexibility and affordability of vehicle leasing to its more than 1.1 million members. Mountain America opened its doors in the 1930s and today has over $18 billion in assets, and is ranked as the 9th largest credit union in the U.S., and the 2nd largest in Utah.</p>
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<p>Through the partnership with Mountain America, CULA will further extend its footprint in the Intermountain West region, originating leases in Utah, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington, and expanding its presence in Wyoming and Nevada.</p>
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<p>“We are committed to help our members define and achieve their financial dreams, and provide them with convenient, flexible products and services. Today’s rising vehicle prices are a significant concern for credit union members, and we are pleased, through this new partnership with CULA, to be able to offer the more flexible, affordable option of vehicle leasing,” said Jade Beckman, vice president of indirect consumer lending at Mountain America Credit Union. “We chose CULA because of their decades of enabling credit unions to offer indirect vehicle leasing, and their dedication to customer service, which sets them apart in our industry.”</p>
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<p>CULA enables credit unions to easily add vehicle leasing to their portfolios and dealers to offer their customers more finance options, through its indirect vehicle leasing program that handles the intricacies of leasing for its clients – including analytics, insurance, operations, compliance and more.</p>
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<p>“Mountain America has long been one of the nation’s most progressive credit unions, with a nearly 100-year history. We are proud that they are joining the CULA program and we look forward to helping them enjoy the benefits that vehicle leasing can provide for their members, while further diversifying their portfolio and increasing yield,” said Ken Sopp, President of CULA.</p>
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<p>Mark Chandler, Vice President of Business Development for CULA also acknowledged the company’s ongoing partnership with Origence which has played a key role in recent expansion: “We value our relationship with Origence, and are excited to continue working with their fantastic team as we bring vehicle leasing to Mountain America and further expand our national presence.”</p>
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<p>CULA, which has added 12 credit unions to its indirect leasing platform in the past year, has been the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 30 years, with the largest number of credit union partners, and longest combined tenure with credit unions. The company experienced record growth in the last two years, and originated 64,000 leases through its credit union partners in 2022, up from 50,000 in 2021. CULA partners with the industry’s most innovative credit unions, including nine of the top 10 credit unions offering leasing in the U.S.</p>
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<p><strong>About Mountain America Credit Union</strong></p>
<p>With more than 1 million members and $18 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile-banking technology, over 100 branches across six states, and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. Learn more at <span><a href="http://www.macu.com/newsroom">macu.com</a></span>.</p>
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<p><strong>About Credit Union Leasing of America</strong></p>
<p>Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) has been the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 30 years. Founded in 1988, CULA provides best-in-class program assistance, analytics reporting, compliance support, dealer management tools and member services. The CULA indirect vehicle leasing program empowers credit union innovators to diversify their existing loan portfolios, improve yield and expand member services. Visit <span><a href="https://www.cula.com/">https://www.cula.com/</a></span> to learn more.</p>
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<p><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p>
<p>Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, angela(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, (714) 454-8776</p>
<p>Melanie Webber, mWEBB Communications, melanie(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, (949) 307-1723</p>Auto Dealership Buy/Sell Market Hits New High, On Track for Record Year as Dealerships Focus on Expansion through Acquisitionstag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-12-18:5283893:BlogPost:13746152023-12-18T19:42:05.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
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<p><em>Dealership buy/sells increased 11% YoY, with trailing twelve-month transactions surpassing 2021’s prior peak, according to the Third Quarter 2023 Blue Sky Report</em><em><sup>®</sup></em> <em>by Kerrigan Advisors; consolidation sparked by the pandemic has yet to abate, blue sky values remain high and acquisition growth, fueled by tremendous access to capital from operations, remains impervious to interest rates</em></p>
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<p><strong>Incline Village, NV – December 18,…</strong></p>
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<p><em>Dealership buy/sells increased 11% YoY, with trailing twelve-month transactions surpassing 2021’s prior peak, according to the Third Quarter 2023 Blue Sky Report</em><em><sup>®</sup></em> <em>by Kerrigan Advisors; consolidation sparked by the pandemic has yet to abate, blue sky values remain high and acquisition growth, fueled by tremendous access to capital from operations, remains impervious to interest rates</em></p>
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<p><strong>Incline Village, NV – December 18, 2023</strong> – The auto dealership buy/sell market hit another impressive record through the third quarter of 2023 with 313 transactions completed — an 11% increase over the same period in 2022, according to the just-released <em>Third Quarter 2023 Blue Sky Report<sup>®</sup> by Kerrigan Advisors,</em> and is on track for another record year. For the trailing 12 months ending September 2023, the buy/sell market recorded 406 completed transactions, surpassing 2021’s prior peak.</p>
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<p>“The buy/sell market continues to show its strength in the third quarter, impervious to the rise in borrowing costs and declines in dealership earnings which, nevertheless, remain historically high, and well above pre-pandemic averages,” said Erin Kerrigan, Founder and Managing Director of Kerrigan Advisors.</p>
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<p>Through the third quarter of 2023, Kerrigan Advisors estimates auto retail generated $235 billion in pre-tax profit since 2020, much of which has yet to be reinvested in dealership acquisitions.</p>
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<p>“The continuing uptick in buy/sell activity is attributable to more sellers coming to market, strong blue sky values and buyers’ robust pool of capital generated over the last four years from record earnings. As profits remain elevated, growing dealership groups are allocating that capital toward acquisitions,” continued Kerrigan. “Most are investing equity, rather than raising debt, and thus are less impacted by higher borrowing costs due to the rise in interest rates.”</p>
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<p>While the number of sellers coming to market has risen, the buy/sell market remains largely a seller’s market given the substantial amount of capital still on balance sheets of dealers who are seeking to acquire dealerships, particularly high-demand franchises in growth markets. As a result, dealership valuations remain near peak levels in 2023, on average about two times pre-pandemic values, although slightly lower than 2022.</p>
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<p>“It is important to keep in mind that dealership valuations do not rise and fall in lockstep with industry earnings. When earnings soared in 2021, buyers assumed they would come back down to earth and took that into account when buying stores,” noted Kerrigan. “As earnings start to normalize in 2023 and 2024, the impact has already been baked into valuations and thus the decline in current earnings is not having a meaningful impact on valuations, as the decline has long been assumed.”</p>
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<p>Notably, according to the report, through the third quarter of 2023, multi-dealership transactions tracked to record levels, surging to 99, and representing nearly one third of the buy/sell market, further evidence of the industry’s focus on the importance of consolidation and scale. “The strength of this trend is reflective of the auto retail’s adaptation to the evolving marketplace where size will be an imperative to future success both on a market and group level,” said Kerrigan.</p>
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<p>According to the 5<sup>th</sup> annual <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/dealer-survey">Kerrigan Dealer Survey</a>, the percentage of dealers seeking to sell dealerships rose more than 200% in 2023 compared to 2022, while the percentage seeking to acquire declined 18%. Kerrigan Advisors believes the rise in dealerships available for sale is a byproduct of expected changes to auto retail in the coming years, which will likely require larger balance sheets and significant investments in digital retailing technology and infrastructure to support electric vehicle sales. The survey also found that 27% of dealers expect the value of their business to decline in the next 12 months. This is the highest rate since the pandemic and nearly double 2019 and 2020’s rate of 14%.</p>
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<p>“In an evolving auto retail environment, dealers are facing a crossroads to either grow their enterprise or exit,” continued Kerrigan. “With franchise valuations still above pre-pandemic levels, and dealers concerned that blue sky could decline if profit margins normalize, more are capitalizing on today’s blue sky rather than assuming the risks associated with growth, particularly in an industry facing tremendous change due to government mandated EVs.”</p>
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<p>US public auto retailers’ acquisition spending on US dealerships through the third quarter of 2023 declined 26% to $1.1 billion, from the same period in 2022, but their spending on international and other business acquisitions increased 165%, resulting in an overall rise in capital allocated to investments for the year. This is the first time since Kerrigan Advisors started tracking these companies that their collective capital allocation to US dealership acquisitions was in line with both their allocation to capital expenditures and international & other investments.</p>
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<p>“This is a clear sign that the publics are assessing their growth strategy, not only through US dealership acquisitions but also in relation to the evolving global auto retail marketplace,” said Kerrigan. “Their allocation to alternative investments, such as foreign dealership groups, financial services companies and technology solutions is a reminder of the multiple options available to the largest groups in the industry. The publics can, and will, invest in the most economically attractive opportunities for their shareholders and are making these investments with the changing auto retail marketplace in mind.”</p>
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<p><strong>Third Quarter 2023 Buy/Sell Trends</strong><br/></p>
<p>Kerrigan Advisors has identified the following three important trends that we believe will meaningfully impact the buy/sell market over the next 12 months:</p>
<ul>
<li>2019 financial performance increasingly irrelevant to valuation</li>
<li>Leasing dealership real estate (versus buying) becomes more economic</li>
<li>OEMs’ EV strategies impact future franchise profitability and blue sky value</li>
</ul>
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<p>“Pre-pandemic performance is increasingly irrelevant when assessing franchise value - 2019’s dealership financial performance is not only almost four years old, but also a reflection of a very different retailing environment,” said Ryan Kerrigan, Managing Director of Kerrigan Advisors. “Buyers who seek to superimpose 2019 earnings as a replacement for projecting normalized earnings are overlooking the substantial and evolving differences between the pre- and post-pandemic auto retail business model.” </p>
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<p>The pandemic motivated dealers to heavily scrutinize operating expenses, particularly employee productivity, which ultimately resulted in significant improvements in operational efficiencies. </p>
<p>In addition to fewer employees producing more revenue, the industry continues to evolve significantly as auto retail has become increasingly reliant on big data and technology to optimize sales. Perhaps the best most recent example of this changing dynamic is Hyundai’s November announcement of its Amazon partnership for the sale of new vehicles. With the AI revolution, auto retailing will undoubtedly continue to change, making 2019, and the historical way of retailing, a vestige of the past.</p>
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<p>EVs continue to impact the buy/sell market as dealership buyers are increasingly limiting the number of Evs they are willing to purchase, concerned about exposure to low-demand devaluing inventory. Today, many dealerships are sitting on over 100 EV days’ supply as consumers are unattracted to the high price tags and logistical challenges associated with EV ownership, driving a low demand environment for EVs, with a resulting increase in EV discounting at the dealer level, led by Tesla, which has reduced prices 22% year-over-year per KBB.</p>
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<p>“In the next two years, Kerrigan Advisors sees the auto retail industry approaching a challenging tipping point in EV sales,” continued Ryan Kerrigan. “The government mandated transition to EVs will likely have major implications for franchise values, depending not only on the success of an OEM’s sales strategy, but also on location. With CARB states currently mandating that 35% of OEM sales be zero emissions by 2026, OEMs will have a financial incentive to send the majority of their EV vehicles to those states (currently 15 states), resulting in greater disparities in EV and ICE availability from state to state. This disparity could lead to monumental differences in dealership profitability based on location and, ultimately, greater gaps in franchise value, adding a new variable to blue sky valuation.”</p>
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<p><strong>Toyota, Honda, Subaru, Porsche and Lexus Multiples Increased; Ford Sees Reduced Multiple; Ford, Nissan, CDJR and Lincoln Multiple Outlooks Downgraded</strong></p>
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<p>For the third quarter of 2023, Kerrigan Advisors increased the multiple outlooks for five franchises namely Toyota, Honda, Subaru, Porsche, and Lexus. These franchises join Kia as those most likely to see improvements in valuation in the coming year. Toyota continues to outperform on every level.</p>
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<p>“Toyota is the most trusted franchise by dealers, with an incredible 72% of dealers surveyed having a high level of trust in the franchise,” said Erin Kerrigan. “This monumental lead in the trust equation has resulted in the franchise having the highest expected increase in profits as a result of the OEM's retailing changes and the highest buyer demand in Kerrigan Advisors’ buyer database.”</p>
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<p>Ford’s multiple was reduced by 0.25 on the high-end, resulting in a revised blue sky multiple range of 3.25 to 4.0, in line with CJDR. Ford remains the franchise most expected to see a decline in value because of the OEM’s changes to its retail model. Consistent with this negative sentiment, Ford is the non-luxury franchise least expected to see a rise in valuation in the next 12 months. These results reflect dealers’ lack of trust in the OEM with Ford ranking as the least trusted franchise. With this lack of trust, Kerrigan Advisors has seen a notable rise in Ford dealers seeking a sale.</p>
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<p>Kerrigan Advisors also downgraded the outlook for four franchises, including Ford, Nissan, CDJR and Lincoln. The negative outlook for these franchises is driven by their poor results in the 2023 Kerrigan Dealer Survey, particularly on the question of trust. Most notably in the survey, CDJR saw a significant increase in dealers expecting the franchise to decline in value, from 24% in 2022 to 53% in 2023 – a 29-percentage point increase. Kerrigan Advisors expects this negative dealer sentiment reflects CDJR’s rising inventory levels and lack of incentive spending. Also, 39% of dealers have no trust in CDJR, placing the OEM as the 4<sup>th</sup> least trusted franchise.</p>
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<p><strong>Highlights from the Q3 2023 Blue Sky Report<sup>®</sup> by Kerrigan Advisors include:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>313 dealership buy/sell transactions were completed through the third quarter of 2023, an 11% increase, resulting in 406 transactions for the 12 months ending September 2023.</li>
<li>99 multi-dealership transactions were completed through the third quarter, representing nearly one third of the buy/sell market.</li>
<li>Among the franchises being acquired, domestic franchises increased their buy/sell market share five percentage points to 54%, taking share from import non-luxury franchises.</li>
<li>Domestics retained their majority share of the buy/sell market in 2023; however, more than 30 Kia and Hyundai franchises sold in third quarter alone resulting in those franchises leading import buy/sell market share and overtaking Toyota and Honda for the first time this year.</li>
<li>94% of the franchises sold through the third quarter of 2023 were to private buyers who are leading industry consolidation. The largest private groups represented 20% of the buy/sell market, while smaller private groups remained the largest buyers pool at 74%. The US public dealer groups acquired 6% of franchises sold through the third quarter of 2023.</li>
<li>US public auto retailers’ acquisition spending on US dealerships through the third quarter of 2023 was $1.1 billion, a decline of 26% from the same period in 2022. On a trailing twelve-month basis, the publics spent $2.7 billion on investments, the second highest level since 2021, with nearly half of their investments going to non-US dealerships.</li>
<li>During the quarter, Asbury announced the $1.2 billion acquisition of Jim Koons Automotive Companies, a Kerrigan Advisors’ client, which closed on December 11, 2023. The Koons acquisition is the third largest in auto retail history in terms of purchase price and the highest price ever paid for a regional dealership group. AutoNation, Lithia and Penske also completed US acquisitions during the third quarter.</li>
<li>Through the third quarter of 2023, the US public dealer groups’ new vehicle gross profit margins were 145% higher than pre-pandemic averages.</li>
<li>Kerrigan Advisors’ 2023 Dealer Survey found that 27% of dealers expect the value of their business to decline in the next 12 months, the highest rate since the pandemic and more than double 2019 and 2020’s rate of 14%.</li>
</ul>
<p>The Blue Sky Report<sup>®</sup>, published by Kerrigan Advisors, is the auto retail industry's most comprehensive and authoritative quarterly report on dealership M&A activity, as well as franchise values. The quarterly report, received by nearly 10,000 industry recipients in 35 countries, includes analysis of all dealership transaction activity for the year, and lays out the high, average and low blue sky multiples for each franchise in the luxury and non-luxury segments. For more details and to preview the report, <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/the-blue-sky-report-third-quarter-2023-preview">click here.</a> To sign up to receive the quarterly report, <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/blue-sky-report">click here.</a></p>
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<p>Kerrigan Advisors also releases monthly The Kerrigan Index™ composed of the seven publicly traded auto retail companies with operations focused on the US market. The Kerrigan Auto Retail Index is designed to track dealership valuation trends, while also providing key insights into factors influencing auto retail. To access The Kerrigan Index™, <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/kerrigan-index">click here.</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About Kerrigan Advisors </strong></p>
<p>Kerrigan Advisors is the premier sell-side advisor and thought partner to auto dealers in the US. The firm advises auto dealers nationwide, enhancing value through the lifecycle of growing, operating and monetizing their businesses, as well as offering restructuring and turnaround consulting services. Since the firm’s founding, Kerrigan Advisors has had the honor of representing the industry’s largest transactions, including more Top 150 Dealership Groups than any other firm in the industry. Led by a team of veteran industry experts, the firm does not take listings, rather Kerrigan Advisors develops a customized approach for each client to achieve their personal and financial goals. In addition to Kerrigan Advisors’ sell-side advisory and capital-raising services, the firm also provides a suite of consulting services including growth strategies, capital allocation, transactional due diligence, open point proposals, operational improvement and real estate analysis.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kerrigan Advisors publishes The Blue Sky Report®, which is the auto industry's most comprehensive and authoritative quarterly report of dealership buy/sell activity and franchise values, received by nearly 10,000 industry participants in 35 countries. To register to receive The Blue Sky Report®, <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/blue-sky-report">click here</a>. Kerrigan Advisors also publishes The Kerrigan Index™, the only monthly report tracking the seven publicly traded auto retail companies. To access The Kerrigan Index™, <a href="https://www.kerriganadvisors.com/our-reports/kerrigan-index">click here</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Kerrigan Advisors Media Contact:</strong><br/> Melanie Webber (<a href="mailto:melanie@mwebbcom.com">melanie@mwebbcom.com</a>), mWEBB Communications, 949-307-1723</p>
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<p> </p>HOW TO WRITE COLD-CALLING SCRIPTS FOR CAR SALEStag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-12-16:5283893:BlogPost:13746052023-12-16T14:54:36.000ZChris Vitalehttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/ChrisVitale747
<p>Cold calls are one of the toughest sales pitches in any business. They are fraught with unknowns, and employees have to be prepared to answer sharp questions and navigate interactions on the fly. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12326993652?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12326993652?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250"></img></a></p>
<p>They’re also a solid part of any sales plan, and if your team is close to a monthly goal, they can be the difference between clearing the bar and falling…</p>
<p>Cold calls are one of the toughest sales pitches in any business. They are fraught with unknowns, and employees have to be prepared to answer sharp questions and navigate interactions on the fly. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12326993652?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12326993652?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p>They’re also a solid part of any sales plan, and if your team is close to a monthly goal, they can be the difference between clearing the bar and falling short. But how can you make the most of these unpredictable opportunities?</p>
<p>It turns out the best answer is also a little counterintuitive: scripts! Even though you’re going in blind, all the sales fundamentals and best practices still apply. Armed with well-thought-out cold calling scripts for car sales, your employees will have a solid roadmap that keeps them moving efficiently toward closing and maximizes potential revenue opportunities.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WHAT DO I NEED TO INCLUDE?</h2>
<p>Whether you’re leaving a message or answering impromptu questions about the most minute details of your inventory, the basic structure will follow predictable patterns that any associate can learn to follow. Every business is a little different, but all cold-calling scripts for car sales should use a branching outline that covers the basic scenarios your associates are likely to encounter. These include things like greetings, common questions, and guidance for turning pushback into productive conversations. </p>
<p>And remember: anything can happen, and a cold call can end immediately or result in a same-day sale. Your team will need to be on top of their scripts and on their toes to convert these conversations to sales. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MAKE AN INTRODUCTION</h2>
<p>This may seem obvious, but it’s very easy to get off on the wrong foot—especially on a cold call. How your team handles these important details can impact the later phases of the experience, and getting it right can be the difference between a hot sale and an icy fail:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Greeting</strong>: Salespeople should politely and concisely introduce themselves, the business, and (if applicable) their department.</li>
<li><strong>Establish a Relationship</strong>: A great script will guide employees through making a connection, as well as support using the customer’s preferred title throughout the call. </li>
<li><strong>Hook your Lead:</strong><span> </span>When you make your initial pitch, keep it short, informative, attractive, and benefit-based.</li>
<li><strong>Listen and Take Notes</strong>: Even though you’ve never met, this call is all about the customer! You’re going to need to find out exactly what you can help them with, and that means careful listening and taking notes. </li>
</ul>
<p>Cold calling scripts for car sales give your sales team a clear, repeatable, and professional outline to deliver consistent messaging every time. Whether they’re leaving a voicemail or speaking to a live customer, they’ll hit everything essential without any distractions. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TRANSITIONING TO CUSTOMER NEEDS</h2>
<p>Once they get past this tricky initial phase, a sales associate can move on to the heart and soul of the call. They’ll need to find out what value they can offer as quickly and efficiently as possible. After all, time is money, and that goes double for the customer holding the credit card. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Qualifying Questions</h3>
<p>Once introductions are made, a great script will start guiding a sales associate through the discovery process. Because you called them, these questions are critical to contextualizing the call and presenting a customer with exciting opportunities they don’t know about. </p>
<p>Crucially, make sure you don’t leave questions open-ended! Customers will need clear choices they can respond to with definite answers to feel comfortable, less pressured, and in control. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Appointment Requests</h3>
<p>When you’ve established they’re interested, it’s time to invite them into the showroom to explore. Cold calling scripts for car sales should offer prompts for firm times, dates, and contact information that are followed up with polite confirmation. </p>
<p>Vague language that prompts responses like “maybe next week” or “if have time after work tomorrow” should be avoided, and if customers are non-committal it may mean they need time to think. A script should be prepared to support that choice, but it shouldn’t be shy about specifics.<span> </span><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/briansolis/2021/05/06/the-rise-of-the-appointment-economy-the-last-mile-of-customer-engagement-will-be-scheduled-optimized-and-personalized/?sh=322e22492af8">80%</a><span> </span>of customers feel more comfortable with a business if they can schedule an appointment. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Confirm and Close the Call</h3>
<p>“Thanks for your time, and we’re really looking forward to seeing you!” may sound like a decent enough way to end the call, but without a few core features this friendly closing has the potential to evaporate your lead! </p>
<p>Be sure your scripts touch on the following important details:</p>
<ul>
<li>Let them know you’re about to confirm and invite them to get a pen and paper. A missed appointment can make them feel awkward, and it’s always worth making the appointment easier for them to keep.</li>
<li>Make sure they know the name of the salesperson they’ll be meeting at their visit—especially if it’s you!</li>
<li>Provide the address and customer-relevant directions to your dealership.</li>
<li>Confirm the appointment time, date, and location.</li>
<li>Promise a follow-up call to further confirm the appointment.</li>
<li>Thank the customer for their time.</li>
</ul>
<p>Including these points in the closing of your cold calling scripts for car sales will give the customer everything they need. Attention to detail lets them know you care about their business and value their time. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">COACH YOUR EMPLOYEES</h2>
<p>To make sure your cold calling scripts for car sales work as intended, your team will need training, feedback, and lots of practice. Ideally, this will include<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">mystery shops</a>,<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/active-coaching/">active coaching</a><span> </span>from dedicated auto phone sales professionals, and repeated contact over time. </p>
<p>One excellent method professional phone sales trainers use to get a team comfortable is called the “Leapfrog Technique.” It builds familiarity with your script and gives them a dynamic understanding of how to use it. It’s ideal for cold-calling scenarios that can require pivoting at a moment’s notice. </p>
<p>First, number every sentence. Then, have your employees practice it in the following ways:</p>
<ul>
<li>Read each sentence in order.</li>
<li>Read just the even numbers…</li>
<li>…then the odd numbers…</li>
<li>…then in reverse order…</li>
<li>…then evens and odds in reverse order.</li>
</ul>
<p>Now, they can make the script work in any order circumstances may require.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ASK FOR HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT</h2>
<p>As you can see, writing and coaching cold calling scripts for car sales is involved and time-intensive. Sometimes it makes sense to bring in outside help from professionals who write these scripts for a living. </p>
<p>At<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">Phone Ninjas</a>, writing phone scripts and training employees to use them is our bread and butter. We deliver hand-tailored scripts for your business (not recycled sales jargon by big-box sales generalists) from our team of automotive sales<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/about-phone-ninjas/">champs</a><span> </span>who bring over five decades of combined experience to the table.</p>
<p>Even better, we take care of all training, actively<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/our-methodology/">coach</a><span> </span>your people over time with weekly sessions, and use<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">mystery shops</a><span> </span>to evaluate their skills in real-world scenarios.<br/>Let us turbocharge the performance of your dealership with our cold-calling scripts for car sales. We’d love to<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/schedule-a-demo/">chat</a><span> </span>and<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/schedule-a-demo/">demonstrate</a><span> </span>how to set your cold-calling game on fire.</p>HOW AUTOMOTIVE PHONE TRAINING IS IMPACTING CAR SALEStag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-12-15:5283893:BlogPost:13744612023-12-15T17:18:32.000ZChris Vitalehttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/ChrisVitale747
<p>Let’s face it: automotive sales are becoming increasingly competitive and impersonal with the growth of the online industry. Customers are savvier than ever about getting the best deal, and traditional dealerships are looking to offer greater value through personalized service and better customer experiences. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12326484876?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12326484876?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250"></img></a></p>
<p>Between COVID and pressure from digital…</p>
<p>Let’s face it: automotive sales are becoming increasingly competitive and impersonal with the growth of the online industry. Customers are savvier than ever about getting the best deal, and traditional dealerships are looking to offer greater value through personalized service and better customer experiences. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12326484876?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12326484876?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p>Between COVID and pressure from digital brokers, dealerships are keeping<span> </span><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/car-dealerships-shopping-inventory-prices-incentives-2023-1">33% fewer</a><span> </span>cars on the lot than they did a decade ago.<span> </span><a href="https://www.invoca.com/blog/automotive-marketing-statistics">1 in 3 customers</a><span> </span>know exactly what they want by the time they make contact, and they are willing to wait for the car they want to be ordered. However, for purchases this important, they still want to talk to a human being. Phone leads generate<span> </span><a href="https://www.invoca.com/blog/automotive-marketing-statistics">10-15 times</a><span> </span>more revenue than web leads, and having an excellent phone game is vital to maximizing your opportunities. </p>
<p>Automotive phone training is a key part of any plan to ensure your sales team presents a<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">unified</a>,<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">deep</a>, and<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">high-quality</a><span> </span>experience for customers no matter which employee picks up the phone. We’ll take you through some of the most important ways phone training can boost your sales goals and the advantages it can deliver for your business. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PHONE CONTACTS OFFER BETTER COMMUNICATION IN THE DIGITAL AGE</h2>
<p>Dealership walk-in rates in the internet age are steadily declining. It used to be that 70% of leads came from<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">walk-ins</a>. Today,<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">70-80% of leads</a><span> </span>come from phone calls and the internet. If you want to develop better personal relationships with your clients to close sales and generate referrals, the statistics show that you can’t wait for them to show up at your doorstep. Times are changing, and a solid phone game is a vital part of creating a winning sales equation. </p>
<p>Unfortunately, there’s a lot of evidence to show employee<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">phone skills</a><span> </span>have not kept pace with evolving trends. This represents a huge competitive opportunity for dealerships and one that cannot be ignored as shopping habits continue to shift. High-quality automotive phone training can be a critical<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">differentiator</a><span> </span>that maximizes revenue in this modern, remote-communication economy.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">DEEP, ADAPTIVE SCRIPTS UNIFY BRAND MESSAGE AND IMPROVE LEAD CONVERSION</h2>
<p>When customers pick up the phone, they are looking for answers to specific questions and help with important concerns. This can be challenging for a sales team, especially when it comes to delivering clear, consistent messaging no matter who takes the call. </p>
<p>Phone scripts are the best way to take advantage of modern sales dynamics in the industry. They keep everyone on brand, provide support for challenging interactions, and guide your team through every path to revenue. When scripts are written properly and supported with one-on-one automotive phone training, they offer a number of valuable advantages:</p>
<ul>
<li>Customers get the same experience regardless of which employee they connect with.</li>
<li>They provide your team with branching, adaptive scripts that use proven techniques to overcome common objections and answer complicated questions. </li>
<li>Scripts keep associates on message and moving efficiently toward closing while minimizing the chances they’ll inadvertently kill a potential sale. </li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ACTIVE COACHING ALLOWS YOUR TEAM TO INTERACT NATURALLY AND EFFICIENTLY</h2>
<p>Once you’ve got a great script, employees must be coached to deliver it organically. Everyone knows how off-putting it can be to listen to a customer service agent robotically delivering a pre-written script. But the very best, most helpful calls you’ve ever had were probably also supported by a script—you just didn’t know it because they were so professionally presented!</p>
<p>Employees who are coached to deliver scripts over time with effective automotive phone training are able to integrate their individual sales skills with optimized sales content. Coaching agencies who understand the industry and deliver active coaching can:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ensure your team sounds natural and engaged. </li>
<li>Deliver scripts tailored to individual sales styles.</li>
<li>Empower associates to improvise as they get comfortable so they can personalize customer experiences. </li>
<li>Identify effective phrases and techniques and share them with the team. </li>
</ul>
<p>Finally, active coaching is all about<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/master-your-telephone-etiquette-with-the-power-of-scripting/">growing and developing</a><span> </span>over time—especially as the industry continues evolving. A great automotive phone training agency gives you the flexibility to update your scripts and make your entire sales floor aware of changing trends. Your team will just keep getting better and better, and they’ll be ahead of the curve when change rolls around. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">GET THE BEST TRAINING FROM INDUSTRY EXPERTS.</h2>
<p>Car sales strategies and tactics are constantly adapting to keep up with changing customer dynamics. The dealerships that will stand out tomorrow are the ones that embrace effective automotive phone training today. </p>
<p>Unfortunately, increased competition online has made developing a competitive phone game chess, not checkers, and most dealers don’t have the time or expertise to create effective scripts or train their people to use them well. It takes a dedicated industry expert to get your phone game on point, and<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">Phone Ninjas</a><span> </span>is the best in the business. </p>
<p>We’re a world-class automotive phone training coaching agency founded and staffed by<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/about-phone-ninjas/">legendary</a><span> </span>industry professionals with over five decades of combined automotive selling experience. We personally craft scripts for your dealership and provide ongoing<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/our-methodology/">active coaching</a><span> </span>to get your employees comfortable and confident.</p>
<p>And unlike some programs, we make sure they’re working while learning. After a 90-minute introductory session, we keep individual training short and constructive so your people can get right back on the phone to meet their sales goals. We also follow up with<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">mystery shops</a><span> </span>(we’ll throw in two for<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">free</a>!) to give them real-world tips that can make a difference in their numbers today. </p>
<p>If you think Phone Ninjas can help perfect and streamline your phone service so your team can take revenues to new heights, contact us today to schedule a free<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/schedule-a-demo/">demo</a>!</p>CerebrumX Industry Survey Highlights Where Cost Reductions Are Being Realized for Fleets Leveraging Connected Vehicle Datatag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-12-14:5283893:BlogPost:13745332023-12-14T16:35:48.000ZJohn Sternalhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/JohnSternal
<p><strong>DETROIT – December 14, 2023 -</strong> CerebrumX Labs Inc. (CerebrumX), a leading AI-driven automotive data management company, announced today results of a recent industry survey designed to take the pulse of fleet business leaders who have begun to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) connected vehicle technologies, and what type of results and/or cost savings they have identified for their operations.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>CerebrumX presented an online survey to more than 2,000 fleet…</p>
<p><strong>DETROIT – December 14, 2023 -</strong> CerebrumX Labs Inc. (CerebrumX), a leading AI-driven automotive data management company, announced today results of a recent industry survey designed to take the pulse of fleet business leaders who have begun to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) connected vehicle technologies, and what type of results and/or cost savings they have identified for their operations.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>CerebrumX presented an online survey to more than 2,000 fleet professionals during the last two weeks of November. The survey found that 61.5% of respondents are currently leveraging connected vehicle data. It also found that 38.5% are also leveraging a telematics service provider (TSP). However, 32.7% say they are not receiving optimal ROI from their TSP. Of these individuals, 22.1% said they have challenges in making their data actionable for their organization, and another 21.2% said they have challenges in collecting data from different vehicle models and OEMs. Lastly, 37.3% said they haven’t been collecting data from OEMs because they haven’t found the right data platform provider.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Embedded AI Showing Progress</strong></p>
<p>Sixty-nine percent said they believe embedded AI can be a solution to these issues. Forty-eight percent said they would like to be using their data to better understand usage trends, while another 42% said they want to build broader mobility strategies, and 33% said they want to gain better insights for vehicle maintenance.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In terms of leveraging connected vehicle data to reduce costs, the majority of respondents (37.5%) said they are seeing a reduction in insurance costs by 5% - 10%, and more than a third are seeing a reduction in maintenance costs also by 5% - 10%. Many respondents also said their connected vehicle data is creating the most results for cost reductions in road usage fees (44%), as well as overall fleet management operations (41%).</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Many Struggle With Data From Disparate Sources</strong></p>
<p>Roughly half of respondents said they need a better way to standardize data from disparate systems or OEMs (49%) to improve the process of leveraging their connected vehicle data. Another 36.5% said they need better connectivity technology, and also improve on the time it takes to access and process data. Just over half (51%) said gaining better insights would allow them to help supply chain processes for new vehicles, while 46.2% said it would help better maintain vehicles.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"As we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of the fleet industry, it is imperative for executives to recognize the transformative power of connected vehicle data,” said <strong>Sandip Ranjhan, CEO of CerebrumX</strong>. “In an era where information is key, unlocking the full potential of today’s fleets requires a deep understanding of the insights derived from connected vehicles. Education plays a pivotal role in empowering executives to harness the true value of this data. By investing in continuous learning and fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing, we pave the way for strategic decision-making that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of fleet management. Connected vehicle data isn't just about technology; it's about unlocking efficiency, enhancing safety, and ultimately driving business success.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About CerebrumX Labs Inc.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>CerebrumX (<a href="http://www.cerebrumx.ai">www.cerebrumx.ai</a>) uses AI to deliver trusted data and high-quality insights to businesses to drive innovation, optimize operations and drive key decisions using smart data. Its industry’s first ubiquitous data management platform is utilized across the Edge and Core Network to its partners including OEMs, Media, Insurers, Fleet Companies and Smart Cities/Municipalities. CerebrumX’s Augmented Deep Learning Platform (ADLP) securely collects and consolidates scattered data from our partners and other third-party apps and devices to enable the activation of connected vehicle data that has previously been under -utilized to any significant level due to the absence of an integrated Automotive Ecosystem. CerebrumX is headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, USA and with offices across NA, EMEA and APAC.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Connect with us for more information, <a href="https://cerebrumx.ai">https://cerebrumx.ai</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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<p> </p>4 AUTOMOTIVE DEALER SALES SOLUTIONS FOR 2024tag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-12-07:5283893:BlogPost:13744282023-12-07T14:55:43.000ZChris Vitalehttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/ChrisVitale747
<p>Online brokers are increasingly eating up market share in the automotive sales industry. The traditional ways for brick-and-mortar dealers to attract customers are changing, and<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw/?trk=public_profile_article_view">70-80%</a><span> </span>of all leads are coming from the phone or the internet. Tomorrow’s dealer sales solutions need to focus on perfecting phone communication…</p>
<p>Online brokers are increasingly eating up market share in the automotive sales industry. The traditional ways for brick-and-mortar dealers to attract customers are changing, and<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw/?trk=public_profile_article_view">70-80%</a><span> </span>of all leads are coming from the phone or the internet. Tomorrow’s dealer sales solutions need to focus on perfecting phone communication and maximizing every possible sales opportunity to compete. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12310669496?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12310669496?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p>A great website is a must today, but that’ll never provide the personal touch so important to closing sales. Excellent phone skills and preparation are still<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/importance-customer-service-automobile-industry-bhavesh-vaswani">underutilized tools</a><span> </span>to help your team make these all-important human connections in this more anonymous age. </p>
<p>A good strategy is to double down on fantastic customer service solutions, perfect phone sales strategies, and that emphasize personal customer contact and care. By unifying your brand message and customer interactions, using active employee<span> </span><a href="https://www.zavvy.io/blog/benefits-coaching">coaching</a><span> </span>and<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pros-cons-sales-script-kalani-thomas">scripts</a>,<span> </span><a href="https://jancyn-corporate-videos.s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Receipt+Surveys+vs.+Mystery+Shopping+Research+White+Paper.pdf">mystery shops</a>, and finding the right customer service partners, you can separate yourself from the faceless pack of online dealers and industry peers. </p>
<p>Here’s how to leverage all these tactics to boost your monthly sales goals and get an edge over the competition in 2024. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. UNIFY YOUR BRAND AND CUSTOMER SERVICE PRESENTATION</h2>
<p>In the past, the job of selling your brand image and maintaining quality customer interactions was largely left up to each person on the sales team. And while they might be individually talented communicators, the rise in phone interactions has made it increasingly necessary to provide a consistent and uniform message. Also, most contact with your dealership and inventory will start online, and employees need to be prepared to greet customers at a variety of points in the funnel, not just the top.</p>
<p>To create a consistent, integrated experience, branding, and customer service protocols need to be a top-down concern for dealers as part of a larger sales strategy. GMs need to invest in content and coaching support for channeling customers through the dealership, as well as training associates to nurture and capitalize on all sales opportunities. </p>
<p>These are big steps, but once you’ve developed a strategy you can get your whole team on board. Every employee will know what’s expected of them and how to respond to any situation so that your customers experience the same wonderful customer service experience every time they reach out.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. ACTIVE EMPLOYEE COACHING</h2>
<p>Sales training in the automotive industry has historically focused on handing information to employees and hoping their commission is enough motivation to absorb it. Unfortunately, in 2024, that’s just not going to get the job done. </p>
<p>It can be tempting to hold a training session or two that involves everyone watching a lecture or PowerPoint presentation. But how much will they remember? Will they be able to apply what they’ve learned? </p>
<p>True mentors know deep, thorough learning is a process that<span> </span><a href="https://hbr.org/2012/11/how-to-master-a-new-skill">takes time</a><span> </span>and requires consistent<span> </span><a href="https://hbr.org/2012/11/how-to-master-a-new-skill">coaching</a><span> </span>to make new skills second nature. You’ll need to invest in active training that’s based on analysis, feedback, and repeated personalized interactions to make sure it sticks. </p>
<p>Owners and GMs have the knowledge to fill this role, but they rarely have the time to invest in the individualized training modern phone sales strategies require to execute well. A<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">dedicated training partner</a><span> </span>with industry expertise is a must for 2024. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. CUSTOMIZED SALES SCRIPTS</h2>
<p>Sales scripts have a bad reputation in some circles, but that’s largely the result of<span> </span><a href="https://hbr.org/2012/11/how-to-master-a-new-skill">poorly-written</a><span> </span>and<span> </span><a href="https://hbr.org/2012/11/how-to-master-a-new-skill">lazily-delivered</a><span> </span>content. The best scripts are created by industry insiders who’ve seen and heard it all, and they provide a myriad of advantages over improvised banter when they’re presented by enthusiastic employees who know them backward and forward.</p>
<p>Great scripts should always: </p>
<ul>
<li>Keep salespeople<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pros-cons-sales-script-kalani-thomas">moving towards</a><span> </span>the sale, and<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pros-cons-sales-script-kalani-thomas">limit</a><span> </span>distractions that don’t contribute to answering customer questions and building </li>
<li>Ensures your customer experiences your dealership exactly as you want them to, every time.</li>
<li>Have many branching paths that enable employees to tackle any situation they might encounter with confidence and expertise.</li>
<li>Improve lead generation by building in mechanics to identify new leads, especially in difficult or complicated situations where your team member may miss opportunities while preoccupied with managing the situation.</li>
</ul>
<p>While you can write your own scripts, it’s a lot of hard work and significant field testing to refine and polish them. A dedicated coaching partner has the experience and resources to get them dialed in the first time. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. MYSTERY SHOPS </h2>
<p>Mystery shops are some of the best feedback you’ll ever get for your phone sales game. Traditional customer surveys, online questionnaires, and comment cards have a degree of utility, but in the end, don’t really provide much<span> </span><a href="https://jancyn-corporate-videos.s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Receipt+Surveys+vs.+Mystery+Shopping+Research+White+Paper.pdf">actionable intel</a>. These old-fashioned dealer sales solutions don’t offer the chance for dynamic follow-up questions and rarely lead back to specific employee deficits.</p>
<p>Mystery shops take care of all these problems. When trained mystery shoppers pose as customers, you’ll get specific and<span> </span><a href="https://jancyn-corporate-videos.s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Receipt+Surveys+vs.+Mystery+Shopping+Research+White+Paper.pdf">solid data</a><span> </span>on how each team member is performing. And the best mystery shopping companies back it up with effective active coaching, and offer follow-up practice to help employees grow and perform more effectively. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FIND THE RIGHT COACHING PARTNER</h2>
<p>As we discussed, this is a lot for any owner or general manager to take on, and you’ve got enough on your plate already. Given this reality, hiring an active coaching agency that covers all these bases is a smart play. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">Phone Ninjas</a><span> </span>was founded by auto industry sales experts who have over<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/about-phone-ninjas/">half a century</a><span> </span>of combined experience selling cars and trucks. And while other generic sales training companies may have file cabinets full of stock scripts they hand out to everyone with a checkbook, we hand-tailor our scripts to your dealership’s every need. </p>
<p>We cover all the bases for implementing your sales strategy as well so you can focus on running your business and evaluating the results of our work. At<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/meet-the-coaches/">Phone Ninjas</a>, we coach individual employees in one-on-one<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/our-methodology/">sessions</a><span> </span>until they’ve nailed everything. We also follow up with mystery shops to guarantee the training is implemented properly and tailor further coaching to correct issues identified in these shops. And our two<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">free</a><span> </span>initial mystery shops help you see exactly how we’ll help and set a baseline for performance development. </p>
<p>We’re confident we can turbocharge your goals with solid, time-tested dealer sales solutions. Please let us know when we can chat and set up a free<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/schedule-a-demo/">demo</a><span> </span>of our services!</p>How Auto Retailers Are Leveraging Advanced Connected Vehicle Data for Optimized Lot Management Solutionstag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-12-05:5283893:BlogPost:13745252023-12-05T15:58:03.000ZJohn Sternalhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/JohnSternal
<p>For many years, auto dealerships have constantly adjusted inventory expectations due to shifting supply chain constraints and lot management challenges. These constraints have impacted vehicle acquisition, parts sourcing and transport of new vehicles. Fleet allocations will only continue to grow, and it is important for fleets and auto retailers to identify new solutions via advanced connected vehicle data to maintain profits and customer expectations.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Fleets &…</strong></p>
<p>For many years, auto dealerships have constantly adjusted inventory expectations due to shifting supply chain constraints and lot management challenges. These constraints have impacted vehicle acquisition, parts sourcing and transport of new vehicles. Fleet allocations will only continue to grow, and it is important for fleets and auto retailers to identify new solutions via advanced connected vehicle data to maintain profits and customer expectations.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Fleets & Dealers Face Systemwide Challenges</strong></p>
<p>As with any supply chain issue, there is no single cause of the problem. The process of transporting vehicles is long and complex and has always depended on multiple parties, including vehicle manufacturers, fleet management companies, transport providers, drivers, customers, customer drivers, RDW, service providers and rail transport, storage location and even the weather. It has many moving parts with some uncertainty. For a process to work properly, all elements must work in sync. These problems can cause system-wide challenges.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There are many reasons why these challenges are growing. The well-known driver/skilled labor shortages impact transportation through both trucks and rail. Transporters are struggling to find Over-the Road (OTR) drivers for multi-state moves or trips that are greater than 300 miles. Railroads also have the same type of shortages for skilled employees. What’s more, hiring new employees requires training specific to each industry. Lastly, the long lead times and delays of new vehicle orders adds uncertainty to the delivery timing, requiring additional follow-up which makes scheduling difficult. In addition, staffing at many dealerships remains lower than pre-pandemic levels due to decreased dealer inventory and pre-selling of dealer vehicle orders.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>New solutions today are helping to solve many of these challenges. These solutions are built around and are leveraging new data technologies that help reduce costs, improve customer experience, enhance efficiency as well as safety in inventory operations, leading to increased profitability.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Technology Driving Inventory Management Solutions</strong></p>
<p>Today this starts with the goal of transforming fleet management and dealer operations by offering a seamless and hassle-free solution for inventory management, without the need to install any additional hardware. Advanced technologies based on intuitive real-time data seamlessly integrate with the software platforms to receive real-time connected vehicle data from equipped and eligible vehicles to simplify LOT management for accurate and remote inventory management, that leads to a contactless and seamless experience for fleet and auto retailers. The real-time location tracking capabilities can also streamline the test drive process, resulting in reduced waiting times and enhanced customer satisfaction.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The remote access dashboards allow contactless and remote inventory management, making it easier to locate vehicles, eliminating labor-intensive manual operations for tracking and maintenance. These solutions utilize real-time location tracking capabilities, allowing dealerships to establish geofencing parameters to strengthen inventory security and enable quick recovery of vehicles. Further, leading providers also enable vehicle digital keys to seamlessly integrate with the dealership’s authentication server, offering a direct interface with OEMs, to streamline the test drive experience.</p>
<p><strong>Easy-To-Use Dashboards with Real-Time Data</strong></p>
<p>Cross-OEM embedded vehicle information today is giving fleets and auto retailers access to smart insights in a single dashboard to monitor the inventory in real-time, by tracking the location of vehicles, vehicle health parameters, streamlining test drives with digital keys and more, and hence operating effectively and maximizing profits.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Another key distinguishing feature involves the elimination of dependency on external hardware, such as OBD devices, and instead relying on embedded data streams received from within the vehicle in near real-time for highly accurate results and superior data quality.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Predicting customer demand for specific vehicle models is a critical aspect of inventory management for both fleets and auto dealerships. Connected vehicle data is now enabling fleets and dealerships to harness the power of predictive analytics. By analyzing these critical data sets in real time, fleets and dealerships can make informed decisions about vehicle inventory management. This proactive approach helps prevent overstocking or understocking issues, optimizing inventory levels to meet customer demand more effectively.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>From real-time monitoring and predictive analytics to enhanced customer experiences, fleets and dealerships are leveraging advanced technology to address longstanding challenges in their lot management operations. As the vehicle fleet and automotive industry continues to embrace innovation, the synergy between advanced data analytics and inventory management will likely redefine the way fleets and dealerships operate, ensuring they stay competitive in an evolving market.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About The Author:</strong> Kapil Arora is the Chief Sales Officer at CerebrumX, a leading AI-driven automotive data management company. Arora focuses on creating a comprehensive ecosystem of partners to monetize untapped connected car data. For more information visit <a href="https://cerebrumx.ai">https://cerebrumx.ai</a>.</p>5 RESULTS YOU’LL GET FROM OUR CAR SALESMAN TRAININGtag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-12-04:5283893:BlogPost:13745232023-12-04T23:15:33.000ZChris Vitalehttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/ChrisVitale747
<p>All the talent in the world can’t replace solid car salesman training. It’s an ongoing process, and it’s got to be done right or your dealership’s profitability will suffer. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12308731290?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12308731290?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250"></img></a></p>
<p>As a successful owner or general manager, you know what it takes to make a sale, but<span> …</span></p>
<p>All the talent in the world can’t replace solid car salesman training. It’s an ongoing process, and it’s got to be done right or your dealership’s profitability will suffer. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12308731290?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12308731290?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p>As a successful owner or general manager, you know what it takes to make a sale, but<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/car-dealer-sales-training-programs-that-work/">sales training and strategies</a><span> </span>are becoming more specialized and nuanced by the day. It takes a dedicated training partner to help your team maximize its potential, as well as give them the individualized feedback and attention they need to succeed. </p>
<p>Unfortunately, in the sales training world there are a lot of generalists who think that selling cars is the same as selling anything else. They’ll give you basic advice you can find anywhere, and most of it won’t scratch the service of what it takes to meet a dealership’s monthly goals. But how do you separate the generic players from automotive experts with industry-proven experience and techniques that deliver results? </p>
<p>That’s exactly why we started<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">Phone Ninjas</a>. We’re automotive industry veterans with five decades of combined experience, and we know exactly what it takes to elevate performance without disrupting your flow to get your team firing on all cylinders. Here are 5 of the core benefits you’ll experience with our car salesman training program. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. CONSISTENT AND UNIFORM ON-BRAND MESSAGE</h2>
<p>Each team member has their own style, strengths, and weaknesses. Left untrained, employees rely on personal<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pros-cons-sales-script-kalani-thomas">experience and improvisation</a><span> </span>in the moment, which can be effective if they’re talented… but can backfire just as easily. And they’re all going to represent your dealership differently, which is a nightmare for overall customer service.</p>
<p>At Phone Ninjas, we equip your salespeople with phone scripts that provide valuable structure for the new guys, and nuanced messaging for complex situations that will benefit even the most seasoned pros. Our branching scripts are tailored just for your dealership and developed in tandem with leadership, and our car salesman training program ensures every employee<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pros-cons-sales-script-kalani-thomas">absorbs and personalizes</a><span> </span>your scripts so their delivery becomes natural and organic. </p>
<p>We follow up with<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">mystery shops</a><span> </span>to evaluate performance, and meet with staff individually to improve consistency and delivery based on the results.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. IMPROVED LEAD GENERATION</h2>
<p>No matter how talented and wonderful your employees are, they always need direction. Our car salesman training improves lead generation with specific tactics, scripts, and active coaching for key scenarios like referrals, contacting existing customers, and cold calls. </p>
<p>Also, great customer service leads to sales and repeat business, and our scripts mine every opportunity to tastefully and naturally generate leads as the situation allows. When an employee is preoccupied trying to solve a problem for a frustrated customer, they may miss those opportunities.</p>
<p>Finally, the scripts we write for you leverage your brand and team strengths to make sure that customers have a smooth, consistent experience from the first trip to your website to being handed the keys. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. COMMUNICATE MORE EFFECTIVELY WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS</h2>
<p>You’ve probably noticed walk-in traffic<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">isn’t</a><span> </span>what it used to be. 30 years ago, the best way to buy a car was to walk onto a lot and talk to a salesperson. Today,<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">70-80%</a><span> </span>of customer contacts are through the internet or by phone. </p>
<p>Sadly, many in the automotive industry have not substantially improved phone skills in the last<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">quarter century</a>. This is one aspect of car salesman training that represents an untapped reservoir of customer service and competition. With so much riding on the quality of your voice-only communication, we make sure your dealership representatives<span> </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-important-phone-today-training-automotive-industry-chuck-mcgraw?trk=public_profile_article_view">harness</a><span> </span>every opportunity they get to deliver accurate information, compassionate financial assistance, and develop trust. </p>
<p>And we don’t just hand your team some scripts and walk out the door, either. We back our coaching up with ongoing analysis, feedback, and active training to make sure the skills they learn actually stick. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. ENSURES YOUR DEALERSHIP STANDS OUT FROM THE COMPETITION</h2>
<p>The uniform and consistent messaging you get from our car salesman training ensures that no matter which team member picks up the phone, customers immediately know it’s your dealership. They know what to expect, and because the scripts are personalized and the associates extensively and personally coached on their delivery, your message is unique and enjoyable, on point, and leaves customers feeling good about your business.</p>
<p>Everyone’s had phone experiences where the salesperson on the other end is clearly reciting a boring and predictable transcript, and it makes you want to hang up and never call again. At Phone Ninjas, we ensure our car salesman training program empowers your team to deliver interactions that are both responsive to customer needs and personally engaging. Whether it’s new leads or people you’ve worked with for years, they’re never going to feel like you’re going through the motions. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. MORE SALES!</h2>
<p>That’s the whole point, isn’t it? When we’re talking about closing sales, you know there are a myriad of pitfalls to which even experienced salesmen can fall victim, especially once the sale has been made. Unfortunately, there are too many teams in the automotive industry that live and die by the mantra, “Once the deal’s done,<span> </span><a href="https://blog.hubspot.com/sales/when-to-stop-selling">stop selling</a>!”</p>
<p>This is another area where well-coached employees can use scripts to their advantage. Armed with the right roadmap for handling communications, they’re always moving efficiently towards maximizing every opportunity to generate leads and increase numbers without getting sidetracked or missing openings. Remember: a happy customer today is a repeat customer tomorrow, and in the meantime they have many friends who are looking for a dealership they can trust. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">REACH OUT TO LEARN HOW WE’LL HELP!</h2>
<p>Here at<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">Phone Ninjas</a>, our car salesman training is hand-crafted just for you by industry professionals who’ve been selling cars and trucks<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/about-phone-ninjas/">longer</a><span> </span>than many customers have been alive. In a world of one-off training companies and systems, we recognize true mastery is a<span> </span><a href="https://hbr.org/2012/11/how-to-master-a-new-skill">time</a><span> </span>and<span> </span><a href="https://hbr.org/2012/11/how-to-master-a-new-skill">mentor</a>-intensive endeavor. </p>
<p>Our active coaching model is centered on one-on-one interactive development with repeat training experiences, and we can achieve our results in as little as 20 minutes of individualized coaching per employee each month. Even better, it’s largely hands-off for owners and managers, leaving you free to concentrate on the thousand and one items screaming for your attention. We only come to you if a real problem has developed.</p>
<p>We’d love to have the chance to set up a<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/schedule-a-demo/">demo</a>, chat, and provide two<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">free</a><span> </span>mystery shops to help us determine exactly how we can boost your numbers!<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/contact-us/">Reach out</a><span> </span>to see how our car dealership training program can supercharge your business!</p>Car Pros Sponsors GSBA EQUALUX 2023 Gala and Fundraiser in Seattletag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-12-04:5283893:BlogPost:13745202023-12-04T17:00:00.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p><em>Event raised over $875,000 for the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund; new Car Pros Workforce Development Scholarship established</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p><strong>RENTON, WA – December 4, 2023 –</strong> <span><a href="https://www.carpros.com">Car Pros</a></span>, a leading automotive sales and service group headquartered in Washington, was the title sponsor of the GSBA’s EQUALUX 2023, the largest LGBTQ+ and friends gala in the Pacific Northwest. The gala raised over $875,000 for…</p>
<p><em>Event raised over $875,000 for the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund; new Car Pros Workforce Development Scholarship established</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p><strong>RENTON, WA – December 4, 2023 –</strong> <span><a href="https://www.carpros.com">Car Pros</a></span>, a leading automotive sales and service group headquartered in Washington, was the title sponsor of the GSBA’s EQUALUX 2023, the largest LGBTQ+ and friends gala in the Pacific Northwest. The gala raised over $875,000 for the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund. Established in 1981, the GSBA is Washington State’s LGBTQ+ and allied chamber of commerce, and is the largest of its kind in North America.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“We were so proud to be the title sponsor of EQUALUX 2023 for the third year in a row. We strongly believe in the work of the GSBA, and share their values of promoting equality and diversity in the workplace,” said Matthew Phillips, CEO of Car Pros Automotive Group. “We congratulate the GSBA for hosting such a successful event and are pleased, through the establishment of a new Workforce Development Scholarship in Car Pros’ name, to further support their continued investment in the next generation of leaders through their Scholarship & Education Fund.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Car Pros donated nearly $25,000 during the event, creating the “Car Pros Road to Success” Scholarship which will allow a scholar to pursue a 2-year certificate degree within much needed trade industries, such as automotive and auto repair, and to enter the workforce and a skilled-trade career.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Car Pros, which has nine dealerships in Western Washington and Southern California, is committed to changing lives through high-performance and values-led dealerships. As part of the event Car Pros displayed the new, all-electric Kia EV9, the industry's first, mass market, three-row EV SUV, which was a big hit with attendees. The EV9 was converted into a photo booth for the evening, where attendees could get their photo taken from inside the vehicle. The EV9 will be available in dealerships soon, and reservations are currently being taken. Car Pros is the number one Kia EV retailer in the nation.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“EQUALUX 2023 was a night to remember – full of connection, community and support for our future leaders. We are very grateful for the help of our amazing community members, and for their generous donations to the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund, including both one-time and multi-year gifts,” said Ilona Lohrey, GSBA CEO & President. “We are especially grateful for the continued partnership of our Title Sponsor Car Pros Kia, without whom an event of this size would not be possible.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The GSBA supports LGBTQ+ and allied students who demonstrate the vision and the ability to truly make a difference in the world. The organization’s Scholarship & Education Fund awards scholarships to LGBTQ+ and allied students who exhibit leadership potential, strong academic abilities, and are actively involved in school and community organizations. Every scholar who has met certain criteria is eligible for up to four years of scholarship funding to pursue higher education. Founded in 1991, the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund has invested almost $6 million in 535 scholars. For more information, visit <span><a href="https://thegsba.org/">thegsba.org</a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About Car Pros Automotive Group<br/></strong> Car Pros Automotive Group is a leading automotive sales and service group, with dealerships representing Kia, Hyundai, Honda, BMW and MINI. Founded in 1993 by Ken Phillips, Car Pros currently has annual sales of $1 billion and is the top selling Kia retailer in the nation, having retailed over 150,000 new Kia models. The retailer is committed to changing lives through high-performance and values-led dealerships. Led by CEO Matthew Phillips, Car Pros is shaping the future of automotive retail: Franchise, professional, tech-savvy, values driven, and people focused. Visit <span><a href="https://www.carpros.com">https://www.carpros.com</a></span> to learn more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Media Contacts:<br/></strong> Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, angela@mwebbcom.com, (714) 454-8776<br/> Melanie Webber, mWEBB Communications, melanie@mwebbcom.com, (949) 307-1723</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span> </span></p>PROVEN STRATEGIES AUTO DEALER GENERAL MANAGERS USE TO INCREASE SALEStag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-11-29:5283893:BlogPost:13745142023-11-29T23:31:57.000ZChris Vitalehttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/ChrisVitale747
<p>As an auto dealer general manager, you’re responsible for everything from bringing the newest inventory onto the lot to making sure the employee bathroom gets cleaned. No matter what you’re dealing with today, somehow, some way, all of it contributes to the one overarching goal of the business: making sales. And when it comes to the bottom line, one of the biggest parts of your mission is training and coaching your team into world-class closing machines. …</p>
<p>As an auto dealer general manager, you’re responsible for everything from bringing the newest inventory onto the lot to making sure the employee bathroom gets cleaned. No matter what you’re dealing with today, somehow, some way, all of it contributes to the one overarching goal of the business: making sales. And when it comes to the bottom line, one of the biggest parts of your mission is training and coaching your team into world-class closing machines. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305472863?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12305472863?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Unfortunately, there are only so many hours in the day, and a lot of your attention is divided up managing nitty-gritty details like reports, forecasts, inventory, HR, marketing, budgets, and an endless stream of new developments and issues. Everyone wants a piece of your time, and sometimes it feels like the last thing you can do is actually help your team sell cars!</p>
<p></p>
<p>As a result, nearly any auto dealer general manager will need to bring in an experienced coaching agency to help deliver the consistent and effective sales training their employees need. These companies write scripts and work with your people over time to ensure they deliver high-quality, uniform, and consistent customer service that converts leads into sales. However, while getting the right coaching agency with the perfect strategy can completely revolutionize the success of your dealership, the wrong plan will waste your investment, frustrate your people, and tank your monthly goals. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Here are some of the top strategies GMs should look for from a coaching agency to reliably increase sales and take their team to the next level. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">FINDING A COACHING AGENCY THAT WORKS</span></p>
<p>In the automotive industry, the ability of a salesperson to connect and serve your customers remains the fundamental driver for profitability and return business. As you well know, sales in the automotive industry are highly nuanced; you may be the general manager, but a generalist coaching agency simply won’t have the depth of knowledge it takes to make a real impact on your monthly targets. Make sure you partner with a team that’s got a proven track record in the industry that’s backed by broad expertise in auto sales. </p>
<p></p>
<p>In addition to solid credentials, references, and results, you should expect to see a portfolio of strategies that are effective and reliable in supporting their work. When selecting a company, an auto dealer general manager should keep an eye out for the following elements in their game plan:</p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li>Active one-on-one coaching over time for your team.</li>
<li>Detailed phone and sales scripts tailored to your dealership’s needs.</li>
<li>Follow-up reports and coaching based on real-world practice and mystery shops. </li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">ACTIVE COACHING IS KING</span></p>
<p>Harvard Business School recommends taking several months to perfect a new skill. They also note the importance of learning from an experienced teacher who’s mastered the techniques they’re teaching and note that many people learn best when not being taught by someone responsible for evaluating them at their workplace (like the auto dealer general manager!)</p>
<p></p>
<p>So, if real growth of a skill takes time, effort, and a lot of personal attention from a coach, what’s the smart play? </p>
<p></p>
<p>Easy: bring in a company that works interactively with your staff in a one-on-one capacity over a span of time sufficient to truly master the skills they need. And before you start worrying about lost productivity, you should know that effective teaching doesn’t mean hours and hours of training. The most elite coaching agencies can make measurable improvements to a sales associate’s game in as little as 20 minutes a month. They’ll give your team real tactics they can deploy right away without interfering with their time on the phone pursuing sales goals. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">DETAILED AND CUSTOM-MADE SCRIPTS</span></p>
<p>Some dealerships are hesitant to use phone scripts because they view them as limiting to their most talented salespeople. That may have been true 25 years ago, but the industry has changed a lot since then. Customers experience branding, messaging, and content online long before they come into contact with a live person, and it’s extremely difficult to maintain the continuity and consistency of their experience without guidance and structure. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Deep, branching scripts written for your dealership by experienced automotive sales professionals can give your team a consistent on-brand message. They keep salespeople on track and eliminate random language that’s not moving a customer toward conversion (or actively hurting the chances of closing!).</p>
<p></p>
<p>And in difficult moments, these scripts help your agents effectively handle challenges with grace and kindness. After all, these moments are those rare opportunities to convert an angry person into a lifelong customer with great customer service. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">MYSTERY SHOPS WITH FOLLOW-UP SUPPORT</span></p>
<p>Without a real-world evaluation of your team’s skills, all the coaching in the world doesn’t mean a thing. It’s critical to test staff knowledge with an initial baseline survey and follow-up evaluations in the workplace. Traditionally this has been done with receipt surveys, email questionnaires, and customer comment cards, but these single-point methods of data collection often lack actionable data and limit the opportunity to ask meaningful follow-up questions.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Mystery shops, however, are extremely effective strategies for analyzing performance quickly and highlighting specific teaching points. By posing as a customer, a mystery shopper will experience exactly what your customers do, and then evaluate the success of the training and the overall customer experience. Multiple data vectors can be collected, and spontaneous follow-up questions on important areas of improvement can be engaged in as needed.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Of course, the very best mystery shopping companies don’t just leave the training at a single point of contact. These moments serve as the basis of ongoing training to solidify new techniques, and will repeatedly confirm performance in real-world situations. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">PICK THE RIGHT PARTNER</span></p>
<p>An auto dealer general manager must be a master delegator as well as an administrator. If you bring in the wrong coaching agency and strategies to your business you’re wasting time and money, and that will ultimately show up in dropping sales. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Phone Ninjas is a highly experienced active coaching agency with a proven track record of improving an automotive dealership’s overall sales and customer service skills. Our customized scripts unify your team’s sales approach and ensure that all your employees are confidently and consistently driving your leads toward conversion. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Our active coaching takes place over months of short, highly individual sessions that leave an auto dealer sales manager in a largely hands-off capacity, free to focus on your other responsibilities. Our coaches have extensive automotive industry experience, so they’ve seen and heard it all. We know the strategies and techniques that can help any auto dealership general manager develop their sales team, and we even offer two free mystery shops to lay the foundation for how we can help them improve. </p>
<p></p>
<p>If you think Phone Ninjas can help your dealership team excel, call us today to schedule your free demo!</p>First Heritage Federal Credit Union Partners with CULA for Vehicle Leasingtag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-11-28:5283893:BlogPost:13743142023-11-28T17:50:49.000ZCrystal Hartwellhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/CrystalHartwell
<p><em>The leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions partners with New York-based credit union to expand its reach in the northeastern U.S.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>San Diego, CA & Corning, NY – November 28, 2023</strong> – Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) today announced that it has been selected by New York-based First Heritage Federal Credit Union to bring the affordability and flexibility of vehicle leasing to its more than 45,000 members. The partnership further…</p>
<p><em>The leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions partners with New York-based credit union to expand its reach in the northeastern U.S.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>San Diego, CA & Corning, NY – November 28, 2023</strong> – Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) today announced that it has been selected by New York-based First Heritage Federal Credit Union to bring the affordability and flexibility of vehicle leasing to its more than 45,000 members. The partnership further extends CULA’s footprint in the northeastern United States.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>First Heritage Federal Credit Union has served members in communities throughout New York and Pennsylvania for nearly 70 years, has more than $700 million in assets, and was recently voted the Best Credit Union in the Twin Tiers for the third straight year. CULA, which enables credit unions to easily add vehicle leasing to their portfolios, and dealers to offer their customers more finance options, has been the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 30 years.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“We are pleased to partner with CULA to offer vehicle leasing as an effective and affordable vehicle financing option to our members,” said Tom Pisano, First Heritage President and CEO. “This aligns with our commitment to help our members achieve a better life for themselves and their communities: a ‘people helping people’ mindset that instills in our operations a higher level of service and value, and one of the reasons we selected CULA’s program.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Pisano also noted that, with CULA, their dealer partners now have more options, greater lending solutions to leverage, and more flexibility, a key advantage, especially as vehicle prices continue to stay elevated.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>According to Edmunds, as of Q3 2023 used vehicle prices averaged $28,935 – a 44% increase over Q3 2018. A recent survey of credit unions conducted by CULA revealed that over-extension on used vehicle loans is the number one concern for credit unions. The survey also found that the vast majority of credit union respondents (92%) agree that they would like a better alternative, such as short-term financing with affordable payments and higher yield. Indirect vehicle leasing offers a low-risk, good-yield, short-term finance option for both lenders and consumers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“First Heritage Federal Credit Union has been meeting the financial needs of their community members for several decades. We’re pleased to further help them help their members, especially in providing a solution to persistent vehicle affordability issues, while also helping improve yield,” said Mark Chandler, Vice President of Business Development for CULA.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>CULA’s indirect vehicle leasing program, which has experienced record growth over the last two years, handles the intricacies of leasing for its clients – including analytics, insurance, operations, compliance, and more. The company pioneered indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions, has the largest number of credit union partners, the longest combined tenure with credit unions and partners with the industry’s most innovative credit unions, including nine of the top 10 credit unions offering leasing in the U.S.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About First Heritage Federal Credit Union</strong></p>
<p>First Heritage Federal Credit Union is a community-chartered credit union that serves more than 45,000 members in an eleven-county region including Chemung, Steuben, Livingston, Schuyler, Tioga, Allegany and Yates Counties in New York and Tioga, Bradford, Lycoming and Potter County in Pennsylvania. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>About Credit Union Leasing of America</strong></p>
<p>Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) has been the leader in indirect vehicle leasing for credit unions for over 30 years. Founded in 1988, CULA provides best-in-class program assistance, analytics reporting, compliance support, dealer management tools and member services. The CULA indirect vehicle leasing program empowers credit union innovators to diversify their existing loan portfolios, improve yield and expand member services. Visit <span><a href="https://www.cula.com/">https://www.cula.com/</a></span> to learn more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p>
<p>Angela Jacobson, mWEBB Communications, angela(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, (714) 454-8776</p>
<p>Melanie Webber, mWEBB Communications, melanie(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, (949) 307-1723</p>CAR DEALER SALES TRAINING PROGRAMS THAT WORKtag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-11-28:5283893:BlogPost:13743122023-11-28T13:41:40.000ZChris Vitalehttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/ChrisVitale747
<p>You’ve hired some wonderful people to help your dealership sell vehicles, but the numbers just aren’t where they should be. Why are the KPIs not spiking? The first place to look is training. Talent is important, but if it’s not supported by disciplined on-brand messaging even the best team is going to struggle. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12304733900?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12304733900?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250"></img></a></p>
<p>Every dealership needs training…</p>
<p>You’ve hired some wonderful people to help your dealership sell vehicles, but the numbers just aren’t where they should be. Why are the KPIs not spiking? The first place to look is training. Talent is important, but if it’s not supported by disciplined on-brand messaging even the best team is going to struggle. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12304733900?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12304733900?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p>Every dealership needs training programs that are reliable, data-driven, and based on real-world feedback, but a lot of programs are just well-packaged videos, dull slideshows, or impersonal seminars in a crowded hotel ballroom that only vaguely relate to your business. These expensive one-and-done strategies are generic and will never get to the bottom of the challenges you need to address to help your team improve. </p>
<p>Programs that build a real mentor-mentee relationship with your staff are the gold standard. Bringing in caring professionals who will not just teach your employees, but also test, evaluate, coach, and teach them to troubleshoot scenarios from their actual daily work is the key to making real gains in the automotive industry. Here are the elements you should look for in a car dealer sales training program. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IN-DEPTH SCRIPTS</h2>
<p>Having a trainer deliver an hour-long lecture about overcoming objections and closing strategies may boost morale, but it won’t give employees practical guidance to navigate the moment-to-moment nuances of a real sales call. Even if your team remembers the bullet points, they still have to come up with all the details on the fly. That’s no way to keep everyone efficiently on point and on brand.</p>
<p>This is where high-quality, customized sales scripts can streamline and unify your entire customer service experience. These scripts should be created under the guidance of industry professionals who have decades of experience handling customer relations and sales, and be tailored to meet your specific business needs. Good scripts are solid tools that keep customer interactions focused on the big picture and assure a consistent experience no matter which employee picks up the phone.</p>
<p>As a conversation with a customer develops, these deep scripts branch into situationally-appropriate responses that are proven to<span> </span><a href="https://www.getcompass.ai/glossary/sales-script">boost</a><span> </span>lead generation and provide<span> </span><a href="https://www.getcompass.ai/glossary/sales-script">uniform, consistent</a><span> </span>service. And when difficult situations arise, these scripts give your employees a solid playbook to help them capitalize on challenging customer interactions and pushback that would cost even the most talented salesperson a commission. </p>
<p>To succeed in car dealer sales, training programs that work are critical, and good scripts are tools that will serve your employees for the rest of their careers.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ACTIVE COACHING AND TRAINING</h2>
<p>Professional sports teams don’t just toss their athletes a playbook and set them loose. Interactive coaching is the key to developing player skills and team cohesion. Regardless of your industry, hands-on, repeat coaching experiences<span> </span><a href="https://www.zavvy.io/blog/benefits-coaching">beat</a><span> </span>isolated training sessions every time, and in interaction-heavy sectors like car sales it can be the difference between meeting your goals and shuttering your windows. </p>
<p>Look for training companies that offer multiple one-on-one training sessions with your associates over time. Real growth takes repetition and effort, and single-point training modules and seminars simply won’t provide the repetition it takes to develop winning habits. After all, each one of your employees has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, so you want individualized, personal training to leverage what they do well and improve the rest along the way. </p>
<p>Finally, car dealer sales training programs need to be industry-focused experts. Beware of inexperienced generalists! Unless trainers have<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/instructor-led-training/">decades</a><span> </span>of experience selling cars, there’s no way they can provide you with insider guidance you’re going to need to make a real impact on your bottom line. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">EXPERIENCE-BASED FEEDBACK AND COACHING</h2>
<p>This is where so many training programs fall short: they might give wonderful information… but they don’t rely on analysis and data to generate feedback to make sure it sticks. Unless coaches actively evaluate how well your employees are using the training every day in your business and then coaching them on the results, there’s no guarantee any of it has sunk in.</p>
<p>A great way to get this feedback is to look for companies that offer mystery shops. Customer comment cards and surveys are informative up to a point, but they<span> </span><a href="https://www.marketforce.com/blog/using-mystery-shopper-boost-customer-experience">strip out</a><span> </span>a lot of vital information. By posing as a customer, mystery shoppers provide detailed feedback on the<span> </span><a href="https://www.marketforce.com/blog/using-mystery-shopper-boost-customer-experience">customer experience</a><span> </span>so trainers can further work with your staff to hone their skills to ever-higher levels in car dealer sales.</p>
<p>Training programs that work often include at least some of these<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">mystery shops</a><span> </span>at no charge so you can evaluate how the business relationship is developing.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">INBOUND AND OUTBOUND CALL COACHING</h2>
<p>Whether you’re following up fresh leads, checking in on existing customers, or contacting a referral, almost nothing beats the warmth and validation of a human being on the other end of the phone. Every employee needs a solid skill bank that allows them to handle any situation with professionalism, care, and grace. </p>
<p>The training company you select needs to deliver scripts and active coaching on a variety of possible sales scenarios so your team is ready to handle all the situations they<span> </span><em>will</em><span> </span>encounter—not just the most common ones that are easy to convert. Make sure the car dealer sales training company you choose delivers a comprehensive program that matches the real-world needs of your team. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PICK THE RIGHT PARTNER</h2>
<p>As a successful business owner, you know how you run your business is only part of the puzzle. Another huge piece is the quality of businesses with whom you partner.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">Phone Ninjas</a><span> </span>is an automotive sales and phone training company<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/about-phone-ninjas/">founded and staffed</a><span> </span>by industry professionals with decades of experience selling cars and trucks. Our experience means we’ve built car dealer sales training programs that reliably produce results, and are based on practical training tips that can help any sales team improve. </p>
<p>Our scripts are hand tailored to fit your business, and our trainers work to develop your team’s skills over months of personalized one-on-one training and<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/our-methodology/">coaching</a>. We’ll provide feedback to help your employees grow, and show you how the quality of your dealership’s customer consistency improves<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/users/reviewCall.cfm?callType=inbound&reviewCode=D374A9FA-95DC-030E-57EDDB187A50328A">before</a><span> </span>and<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/users/reviewCall.cfm?callType=inbound&reviewCode=B8E4660D-9924-8B26-909059E357E5D227">after</a><span> </span>extensive coaching. We even throw in<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">two mystery shops</a><span> </span>for free so you can gauge how the training and coaching are improving your sales team without breaking the bank.</p>
<p>If you’d like to see if Phone Ninjas can turbocharge your sales game and boost your revenues, contact us today and<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/schedule-a-demo/">schedule your free demo</a>. </p>Navigating the Most Common Subaru Issues and Solutionstag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-11-27:5283893:BlogPost:13743092023-11-27T07:30:00.000ZKelsey Walkerhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/KelseyWalker
<p><img alt="Most Common Subaru Issues and Solutions" class="alignnone wp-image-1227885" height="489" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Most-Common-Subaru-Issues-and-Solutions.png" width="362"></img></p>
<p><span>Subaru, renowned for its commitment to safety and performance, has garnered a loyal</span> <span>following of drivers. However, like any automobile, Subaru is not immune to common</span> <span>issues that can arise over time. In this comprehensive guide, we'll navigate through</span> <span>some of the most frequently encountered problems Subaru owners may face and</span> <span>provide practical solutions to keep your ride running smoothly.</span></p>
<h2><b>Head…</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-1227885" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Most-Common-Subaru-Issues-and-Solutions.png" alt="Most Common Subaru Issues and Solutions" width="362" height="489"/></p>
<p><span>Subaru, renowned for its commitment to safety and performance, has garnered a loyal</span> <span>following of drivers. However, like any automobile, Subaru is not immune to common</span> <span>issues that can arise over time. In this comprehensive guide, we'll navigate through</span> <span>some of the most frequently encountered problems Subaru owners may face and</span> <span>provide practical solutions to keep your ride running smoothly.</span></p>
<h2><b>Head Gasket Leaks: A Subaru Quirk</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1228173" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Head-Gasket-Leaks.jpg" alt="Head gasket failure on old car engine details, with carbon deposits and oil everywhere" width="550" height="365"/></p>
<p><span>One of the most notorious issues with certain Subaru models is head gasket leaks. Over</span> <span>time, the gaskets can wear out, leading to coolant leaks and potential overheating.</span> <span>Regular maintenance checks, including monitoring coolant levels and addressing any</span> <span>signs of overheating promptly, can help mitigate this problem. If caught early, repairing</span> <span>or replacing the head gasket can prevent more severe engine damage.</span></p>
<h2><b>Transmission Troubles: Addressing the Shudders</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1228174" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Transmission-Troubles.jpg" alt="Transmission Troubles" width="550" height="367"/></p>
<p><span>Some Subaru owners report experiencing transmission issues, particularly a shuddering</span> <span>sensation during acceleration. This may be attributed to problems with the torque</span> <span>converter or the transmission fluid. Regular transmission fluid checks and timely</span> <span>changes can contribute to smoother performance. If the issue persists, consulting a</span> <span>professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis is advisable.</span></p>
<h2><b>Subpar Steering Response: The Steering Rack Conundrum</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1228181" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Subpar-Steering-Response.jpg" alt="Subpar Steering Response" width="550" height="366"/></p>
<p><span>A common complaint among Subaru drivers involves a lack of responsiveness in the</span> <span>steering. This may be linked to a malfunctioning steering rack. Regularly checking for</span> <span>fluid leaks, and unusual noises while turning, and addressing alignment issues promptly</span> <span>can help maintain optimal steering performance.</span></p>
<h2><b>Suspension Woes: Navigating Bumpy Roads</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1228183" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Suspension-Woes.jpg" alt="Suspension Woes" width="550" height="366"/></p>
<p><span>Subaru vehicles are known for their off-road capabilities, but this can take a toll on the</span> <span>suspension system. Owners might encounter issues such as clunking noises or a</span> <span>bumpy ride. Regular inspections of the suspension components, including shocks and</span> <span>struts, can help identify and resolve potential problems before they escalate.</span></p>
<h2><b>Ongoing Oil Consumption: The Subaru Challenge</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1228184" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ongoing-Oil-Consumption.jpg" alt="Ongoing Oil Consumption" width="550" height="366"/></p>
<p><span>Certain Subaru models have been associated with higher-than-average oil consumption.</span> <span>Keeping a close eye on oil levels and scheduling regular oil changes can help manage</span> <span>this issue. Additionally, Subaru has released updates for some affected models to</span> <span>address this concern, so staying informed about any manufacturer updates is crucial.</span></p>
<h2><b>Dashboard Warning Lights: Deciphering the Code</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1228185" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Dashboard-Warning-Lights.jpg" alt="Dashboard Warning Lights" width="550" height="367"/></p>
<p><span>Modern Subarus come equipped with a sophisticated onboard diagnostic system that</span> <span>may trigger various warning lights. Ignoring these signals can lead to more significant</span> <span>problems. Regularly checking and addressing the root cause of warning lights, whether</span> <span>related to the engine, brakes, or other systems, is vital for preventing potential</span> <span>breakdowns.</span></p>
<h2><b>Electrical Gremlins: Tackling Mysterious Issues</b></h2>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1228186" src="https://www.atoallinks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Electrical-Gremlins.jpg" alt="Electrical Gremlins" width="550" height="367"/></p>
<p><span>Electrical problems can be frustrating and challenging to pinpoint. Issues such as</span> <span>malfunctioning lights, power windows, or electrical accessories can occur. Checking</span> <span>fuses, addressing wiring issues, and consulting a professional auto electrician can help</span> <span>unravel and resolve these electrical mysteries.</span></p>
<h2><b>Solutions: Empowering Subaru Owners</b></h2>
<p><span>While these common issues may seem daunting, proactive maintenance and timely</span> <span>intervention can significantly extend the life of your Subaru. Here are some empowering</span> <span>solutions:</span></p>
<h3><b>Regular Maintenance Checks:</b></h3>
<ul>
<li><span>Schedule routine inspections to catch potential issues early.<br/><br/></span></li>
<li><span>Keep a detailed maintenance record to track your Subaru's health.</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Stay Informed:</b></h3>
<ul>
<li><span>Be aware of any recalls or updates from Subaru related to your specific model.<br/><br/></span></li>
<li><span>Stay connected with online Subaru communities to share experiences and</span> solutions.</li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Professional Diagnostics:</b></h3>
<ul>
<li><span>If you encounter persistent issues, don't hesitate to consult a Subaru specialist or</span> dealership for a thorough diagnosis.<br/><br/></li>
<li><span>Addressing problems promptly can prevent more extensive and expensive repairs</span> down the road.</li>
</ul>
<h3><b>DIY Troubleshooting:</b></h3>
<ul>
<li><span>Some issues can be tackled with basic troubleshooting, such as checking fluid</span> levels, fuses, and basic electrical connections.<br/><br/></li>
<li><span>Online resources and Subaru forums can provide guidance for common DIY fixes.</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><b>How Service My Car Assists You?</b></h3>
<p><span>Have you reached a point where you're questioning, "Where can I find the top <a href="https://servicemycar.com/uae/mazda-repair-dubai" target="_self">mazda garage</a></span><span> dubai for my Mazda car ?" Look no further. At Service My Car, we provide</span> <span>premium car servicing, repair, and maintenance services, always within your reach. With</span> <span>specialized service offerings for the Mazda Car and comprehensive service packages,</span> <span>we ensure the collection and drop-off of your vehicle following its maintenance.</span></p>
<h3><b>In Conclusion: Smooth Sailing with Subaru</b></h3>
<p><span>Owning a Subaru is about more than just having a reliable mode of transportation; it's a</span> <span>commitment to a community that values safety, performance, and adventure.</span> <span>Navigating the most common Subaru issues becomes more manageable with a</span> <span>proactive approach to maintenance, staying informed about your specific model's</span> <span>quirks, and seeking professional assistance when needed. By addressing issues</span> <span>head-on, Subaru owners can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable ride for years to</span> <span>come. Remember, the road may have bumps, but with the right care, your Subaru can</span> <span>conquer them all. Safe travels!</span></p>CAR SALES QUESTIONS TO ASK CUSTOMERS ON THE PHONEtag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-11-22:5283893:BlogPost:13745062023-11-22T21:25:45.000ZChris Vitalehttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/ChrisVitale747
<p>Natural salesmanship can take an associate a long way in any business, but there is always a breaking point where the intuitive drive to sell has to give way to disciplined messaging centered on customer concerns. However, the automotive world is not just one of many examples where this is true—it’s a gold-standard space for conscious branding,<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">active training</a>, and carefully scripted phone interactions to maximize sales. …</p>
<p>Natural salesmanship can take an associate a long way in any business, but there is always a breaking point where the intuitive drive to sell has to give way to disciplined messaging centered on customer concerns. However, the automotive world is not just one of many examples where this is true—it’s a gold-standard space for conscious branding,<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">active training</a>, and carefully scripted phone interactions to maximize sales. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12299314891?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12299314891?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p>The fact is, cars are one of the last true sales environments out there, and they represent a pure opportunity for a team’s talent and technique to come together to move products and drive profits. Today’s environment is no longer the solo show it was 20 years ago. It’s a team sport, and the sales process is one long, integrated chain of experiences. From a customer’s initial interactions with the website to finally sliding the keys across the table, it’s all about finding the right car sales questions to ask customers—and in the right way—to identify exactly what you need to deliver for them.</p>
<p>An associate who’s armed with a well-crafted script will outperform any sales virtuoso who’s going it alone, and like anything, there’s an art to asking the right questions. Here are some of the very best car sales questions to ask in a variety of scenarios to help guide their leads to the car they’re going to fall in love with. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. QUESTIONS IN FOLLOW UP CALLS</h2>
<p>This is a phone call that’s either following up with a potential customer who you met with already, or returning a phone call from a customer who wanted to initiate a conversation. In these cases, you’re hoping to move a customer down your sales pipeline, and will likely be providing information either proactively or in response to a particular query. </p>
<p>In both cases, the most important question you’re going to ask will look something like this:<br/><br/><em>“Hello [Customer Name], this is [Your Name] with [Your Dealership] and I wanted to answer the questions you had about [X Issue]. [Provide answers]. I know [These Concerns] are important for you—</em><strong><em>would you like to go over some of the options and details?” </em></strong></p>
<p>This interaction does two things: first, it provides the information they requested, but second, it’s phrased in a way that lets them know your pitch is secondary (and related) to their needs. Every customer understands you care about<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-training-handling-phone-leads-that-convert-to-a-sale/">making the sale</a><span> </span>and the size of your commission—that’s a given—but no one should ever feel like that’s more important than making sure they are well served. After all, a car is one of the biggest investments most people ever make, and your first priority for earning your keep is making sure their needs are taken care of completely and compassionately. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. NURTURING TRUSTWORTHY REFERRALS</h2>
<p>Part of creating happy customers and building a strong reputation is managing referrals from your customers. Buying a car often involves making huge financial decisions with people you just met. The initial interactions sales associates have with referrals over the phone can be make-or-break for establishing a sense of continuity and trust.</p>
<p>When you’re contacting a referral,<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/free-scripts/">your script</a><span> </span>should follow this structure:</p>
<p><em>“Hello [Customer Name], this is [Your Name] with [Your Dealership] and I was given your name by [Referrer’s Name] . We were able to find them a great car. They mentioned that you might be interested and [These Concerns] are important to you and your family.<span> </span></em><strong><em>Would you like to talk about some of our options?”</em></strong></p>
<p>When we consider the structure of the best car sales questions to ask customers, this format is key. First, it communicates that you have a good relationship with someone they know and trust. More importantly, it relays that the discussion you had with their friend about them was centered on<span> </span><em>their</em><span> </span>needs, not<span> </span><em>your</em><span> </span>wallet. Again, the phrasing is structured so that their needs are first and your sales pitch is a response. </p>
<p>It may seem a bit cynical, but the reality of sales is that most people are inexperienced with negotiating and naturally view car sales associates as slick operators who aren’t to be trusted. An excellent script should<span> </span><em>always</em><span> </span>be proactively reinforcing the idea that transaction is about people first and money second. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. CONNECTING WITH EXISTING CUSTOMERS</h2>
<p>It can always be awkward calling a friend when you want something, even if you know them well. When you’re calling out of the blue from a business, it’s extremely important to get the initial interactions right so it doesn’t feel blatantly transactional. </p>
<p>If you’ve got some great deals you want to share with old customers, your script should be centered around this question:</p>
<p><em>Hello [Customer], this is [Your Name] at [Your Dealership]—I hope you are doing well. How are you liking your [Current Car]?<span> </span></em><strong><em>Is there anything we can help you with?</em></strong><em><span> </span>I’m reaching out because this year’s models have arrived…</em></p>
<p>It might seem a bit odd that this script doesn’t get right to the point, but once again, the most important thing to communicate to a potential customer is that what they’re feeling and what they need matters first and foremost. If they’re happy—great! And if they’re having trouble, you’ll definitely want to address it before you try to sell them something else. </p>
<p>The key here is, whether they’re completely happy or looking to make a change, you still have the same opportunity to invite them to look. Was your old car great? Guess what? The new models are even better! And if your old car is on its last legs, now’s a great time to get an excellent deal. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PERFECTING YOUR SALES CALLS WITH PHONE NINJAS</h2>
<p>Sales scripts are all about delivering consistency and empathy for your customers, support and guidance for your sales team, and as a result,<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/car-salesman-training-tips-to-reach-your-monthly-goals/">hitting your goals</a><span> </span>and driving profits with better service. But if you don’t ask the right questions—and in the right way—you will quickly find yourself getting sent to voicemail while your numbers slump and revenues dip. </p>
<p>That’s where<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">Phone Ninjas</a><span> </span>can give you the boost you need. We’re experts at training sales teams to optimize their interactions with detailed, customized scripts, individual coaching sessions, and consulting services for dealerships and sales teams on any sales communication issues you may be facing. We don’t deal in vague or generic advice either; we offer two<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">free mystery shops</a><span> </span>to give you real-world feedback and insights to find instant teaching points you can use to start boosting your numbers today. </p>
<p>Visit Phone Ninjas to learn the right car sales questions to ask customers that will get them in the door quickly and driving away happy. </p>MUST-HAVE PHONE TRAINING FOR AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE ADVISORStag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-11-20:5283893:BlogPost:13744012023-11-20T19:44:30.000ZChris Vitalehttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/ChrisVitale747
<p>It’s a busy Saturday afternoon at your dealership, and the phones are ringing off the hook. In the middle of the flood of incoming calls, there’s Steve, your star service advisor. He’s juggling conversations, developing sales opportunities, and keeping customers happy. What makes Steve cool as a cucumber on the week’s busiest day? He receives phone training for automotive service advisors, memorizes excellent scripts, and spends regular sessions with a hands-on coach. …</p>
<p>It’s a busy Saturday afternoon at your dealership, and the phones are ringing off the hook. In the middle of the flood of incoming calls, there’s Steve, your star service advisor. He’s juggling conversations, developing sales opportunities, and keeping customers happy. What makes Steve cool as a cucumber on the week’s busiest day? He receives phone training for automotive service advisors, memorizes excellent scripts, and spends regular sessions with a hands-on coach. <a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12296242276?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12296242276?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="250" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p>A service advisor’s phone skills are crucial to your sales engine, driving new leads and cementing relationships. However, not every advisor is a natural-born salesperson. They’re much less likely than your primary sales team to have spent time sharpening their selling chops, which is why solid training can make all the difference.</p>
<p>We’ve curated a list of must-have phone training techniques to help your advisors master proven sales techniques, delivering quality service while drawing in more business for your dealership.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PERSONALIZED TRAINING FOR MORE EFFECTIVE UPSKILLING</h2>
<p>Let’s get back to what makes Steve such a great salesperson. It’s not innate charm (though he has that in spades); instead, it’s training that focuses on his unique strengths and growth areas. The “secret sauce” of individualized training lies in its ability to identify and amplify positive developments while dealing with challenges on a one-to-one level. </p>
<p>Personalized learning means coaching sessions can focus solely on an individual advisor’s progress. These aren’t just standard performance reviews. Instead, they’re interactive, feedback-oriented, and filled with constructive tips drawn from precision insights. Feedback should also be adapted for ongoing skill development. The goal shouldn’t be a one-time boost but a long-term path to mastery.</p>
<p>The final key component of personalized training is individualized roleplaying. Exercises that reflect real-world interactions are a fantastic way to get closer to the boots-on-the-ground experience, providing more tangible learning opportunities. Meanwhile, as the marketplace changes, so will your roleplay methods. New customer expectations should be incorporated into your program, and real scenarios from the service floor can be integrated as they arise.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MASTERING SCRIPTS FOR LASTING RELATIONSHIPS</h2>
<p>Remember those scripts Steve committed to memory? They’re vital for building lasting relationships that turn into future sales. These connections aren’t about a quick conversion, though. They’re focused on building a foundation of trust and loyalty that keeps customers coming back. </p>
<p>Scripts also provide the perfect blend of professionalism and personal touch. They equip advisors with the correct language to address complex issues, provide accurate information, and reassure customers. But it’s not just about the words—it’s how they’re delivered. Advisors should be trained like actors for a play, memorizing their lines and injecting warmth into scripted responses. This helps each interaction feel more organic and part of a meaningful conversation.</p>
<p>It may surprise you that exceptional communication skills<span> </span><em>can</em><span> </span>be developed using scripts. Good phone training for automotive service advisors emphasizes active listening, empathy, and the ability to answer questions confidently. All these components can be reinforced by good scripting. For example, solutions to objections are already in front of the advisor, and follow-up questions are presented with clear flows based on customer statements. As they continuously weave scripts to suit each unique customer, they’ll attain a more consistent foundation—one built on your brand’s voice rather than a different approach for each interaction.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ACTIVE COACHING FOR CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT</h2>
<p>Imagine if every call Steve gets could turn into a learning opportunity and was a step toward mastery. For your dealership, this isn’t wishful thinking. It’s the core tenet of active coaching. Unlike traditional, one-off training sessions, active coaching is a dynamic, ongoing process that evolves with your team’s needs and the constantly shifting automotive marketplace.</p>
<p>One of the main pillars of active coaching is real-time implementation. As we discussed in the first section, the best training isn’t focused on hypothetical scenarios but on real-world exercises. Live call coaching takes this one step further by having coaches listen in, provide immediate feedback, and help advisors refine their approach on the spot. </p>
<p>Active coaching also incorporates incentives and motivational targets to keep advisors engaged. Recognizing and rewarding milestones achieved through active coaching can significantly boost morale and productivity. Whether it’s through internal recognition programs, competitions like Phone Ninjas’ Perfect Score Contest, or even more growth opportunities, these incentives encourage advisors to embrace the learning process and strive for excellence week after week.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">START YOUR PHONE TRAINING TRANSFORMATION WITH A MYSTERY SHOP</h2>
<p>Active coaching begins with a mystery shop—a third-party phone or online audit where the coaching team scores your performance. It’s a great way to get an outside view of your customer experience, pinpointing weak spots and kickstarting the road to improvement. At<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/">Phone Ninjas</a>, we provide<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/dealership-mystery-shop/">2 free mystery shops</a><span> </span>to get you started: one for your digital channel, and one by phone.</p>
<p>Our mystery shopping service objectively assesses your sales team’s effectiveness. We’ll build a customized report that highlights your strongest areas, potential improvements, and untapped potential. By monitoring response times and analyzing the chronological flow of your interactions, we offer insightful feedback to enhance your team’s communication strategy.</p>
<p><br/>Ready to see how Phone Ninjas can elevate your phone training for automotive service advisors?<span> </span><a href="https://www.phoneninjas.com/contact-us/">Contact us</a><span> </span>now to schedule a free demo!</p>Purchase private party vehiclestag:www.dealerelite.net,2023-11-15:5283893:BlogPost:13741712023-11-15T15:28:34.000ZAlice Colemanhttps://www.dealerelite.net/profile/AliceColeman
<p>Hello dear dealers,<br/>I just want to tell you that we launch a new inventory marketplace, and it is completely free to sign up. After registration, you will receive notifications about new cars in your area, and you can bid on them. No fees at all.</p>
<p>You can register here:<br/><a href="https://tinyurl.com/4a6vkpdh">https://tinyurl.com/4a6vkpdh</a></p>
<p>The marketplace will be filled with private party vehicles.</p>
<p>Contact us at info@epicar.ai or (386) 270-3042.</p>
<p>Hello dear dealers,<br/>I just want to tell you that we launch a new inventory marketplace, and it is completely free to sign up. After registration, you will receive notifications about new cars in your area, and you can bid on them. No fees at all.</p>
<p>You can register here:<br/><a href="https://tinyurl.com/4a6vkpdh">https://tinyurl.com/4a6vkpdh</a></p>
<p>The marketplace will be filled with private party vehicles.</p>
<p>Contact us at info@epicar.ai or (386) 270-3042.</p>