Hiring a Car Salesperson. If you’re thinking about hiring a car salesperson, there are a few things you need to know first. We’ll share 10 tips to help you find the perfect candidate for the job. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Look for Experience
People with previous sales experience in the auto industry will have a much easier time getting up to speed and hitting quota than those without relevant backgrounds. Automotive certification programs and other related industry training might show the extra effort they have put into their career.
2. Look for Passion
The best car salespeople are passionate about the automotive industry, which means they are always ready to tell customers all the details about different car models and brands. Passion is contagious – If your candidate loves selling cars, it will be a win-win situation.
3. Look for a Good Attitude
Car salespeople will need to deal with customers of all kinds, including those who might be upset or pushy. A positive mindset and a willingness to go the extra mile will benefit everyone involved in helping customers find their perfect match. Keeping an open mind about different personalities will help your salesperson work better with customers.
4. Look for Experience in the Brand
Someone who is familiar with the make and model of the car you are selling will have a much easier time finding their footing in the industry. If you can, look for candidates who have worked at other dealerships in the past to see what previous employers thought of their work.
5. Look for Outgoing Personalities
Car salespeople are required to be social, even if they are introverted or shy in other areas of life. Someone who is more comfortable being on the phone than being face-to-face with a customer might have trouble building rapport with prospects. Salespeople should feel confident talking about their inventory, promoting sales and marketing campaigns, and be ready to answer any questions customers have.
6. Look for an Open Mind and Flexibility
Car salespeople should feel comfortable talking with customers of all cultures, races, genders, ages, religions, orientations – you name it! Your dealership’s sales staff should be prepared to work with the general public without judgment or bias, no matter who walks through the door.
7. Look for Willingness to Learn
Car salespeople need to be able to provide detailed information about specific models and their features as well as general knowledge about other vehicles on your lot without sounding robotic or stiff. They should know how to answer questions quickly and thoroughly, especially when customers ask something they’ve never been asked before.
8. Look for a Good Understanding of the Market.
Your salespeople should be familiar with the competitive landscape and what differentiates your dealership from others around. Your candidate should be able to understand how incentives, price points, market trends, and all other departments within your dealership work together in order to create a unique customer experience.
9. Look for Someone Independent and Reliable
Your salespeople should be able to work independently, but at the same time be able to rely on their team. Your candidate should be ready to hit the sales floor without too much hand-holding, but also be open to new ideas and listen to constructive feedback when necessary.
10. Look for a Strong Work Ethic
Work ethic is a very valuable attribute that employers should look for when hiring. Your candidate should have all or most of the following essential skills: be punctual, good/positive attitude, communication, listening, cooperation, and organizational skills. As well as productivity, respect for others, and teamwork.
Great car salespeople are hard to find. They can make or break a dealership and keep customers coming back for more.
What other questions do you ask when interviewing potential employees? Share your thoughts as well as any advice.
We hope this helps you hire the right people who will help grow your business!