Women play an important (and traditionally undervalued) role in dealerships. At least half of all car-buyers are women, many of whom prefer to deal with other women during the sales process. And female managers…
Five Keys to a Mystery-Free DMS Switch
Technology is just as integral to the operations of your dealership as the cars you sell. But for one reason or another, while selling cars comes easy to most dealers, technology (and especially the…
Drive to Success: Hiring Quality Talent
The business of auto sales isn’t just about moving metal. It’s about fostering a culture of committed employees devoted to the long-term goals of the dealership. When employees take pride in their jobs, they…
Streamline Operations and Boost Satisfaction
Think for a moment about the interactions your dealership has with your customers. How many people really want to spend more time buying or servicing a vehicle? They want to get in, get out, and…
Drive to Success: Improving Your F&I Department
F&I managers have a difficult job. Not only are they expected to make sales that customers don’t always understand, but their jobs are constantly scrutinized by their employers and consumers alike. In fact, many…
The Importance of Developing a Dealership Staffing Strategy
Change is the only constant in auto sales. In the last several years, the industry has experienced dramatic changes due to increased focus on digital retailing, shifting consumer behaviors, and the pinch of margin…
Drive to Success: Challenge Margin Compression
Margin compression in auto sales is a problem that’s been building for years. And, unfortunately, it’s not going away anytime soon. But there are several things dealerships can do to mitigate the negative effects…
Why Dealers Get Stuck Using Outdated Technology
The auto retail industry is made up of thousands of forward-thinking business people who have found success by adapting to changing environments. These industry leaders have endured downturns, adapted to imposing regulations, and evolved…
Drive to Success: Enhance Customer Loyalty
Customer loyalty that leads to repeat visits to sales and service departments is the goal of every dealership. But loyalty doesn’t come easy. It’s earned by developing a reputation for exceptional service and finding…
Dealertrack DMS Helps Heritage Ford Navigate Uncertain Waters of Auto Sales
After 20 years of service in the United States Navy, Bert Hodge, general manager at Heritage Ford in Southern Indiana, understands what it takes to manage complexity and risk. As a staff analyst commanding…
Drive to Success: Keeping an Efficient Service Lane
In an age of slimming profits and increased competition, having an efficient service lane is more important than ever. Whether competing with quick service shops or finding ways to synergize sales and service efforts,…
Make Every Out-Of-State Customer Count
Many dealers aren’t prepared to handle out-of-state registration and title transactions, and many dealers believe that the process is too complex and time-consuming to make it worth their while. And it’s understandable. Dealertrack Registration…