Automotive dealership inventory management is something that is talked about often, but is exercised in moderation.  Managers that can properly manage new and pre-owned inventory levels are a key component to successful dealerships accross the country.  In some cases we see dealers that have managers that know how inventory should be managed, but have their hands tied by the dealer when it comes to creating quick turn.  This is a behavior by dealers that have had managers running a department that had either limited knowledge on how or their pay plan was not condusive to adequately manage inventory levels, which can create water and turn issues in either example.  Dealers need to define immediately on turn time to the manager that is responsible and make sure that he/she has the understanding of turn time and wholesale loss control.  Without a plan in place there is an inconsistancy that will assure inventory problems and the cost could be significant.

Genius.  Yes, I think this advertising campaign that General Motors is launching on Monday is exactly what the potential consumer base needs to enable the automotive giant to begin it's rise to the top again.  With  General Motors thinning the product line for more focus on brands that are market leaders and losing brands that only offer the consumer choice while swallowing the thin profits of winning lines.  The automotive consumer will really look and compare and see that General Motors is aggressively moving forward they are likely to attract those consumers that have abandon the GM model due to lack of confidence.  By providing the consumer this return guarantee buyers will consider the brand that has been trusted for generations.  The risk is going to provide a solid pre-owned stock pile for General Motors Dealers in a supply low pre-owned market.  Great job G.M., and between your talented dealers and this campaign, I would look for increase market share and reclaiming a lost customer base. 

When was the last time you discussed employee satisfaction among your management team?  This is a real measurement of your dealership's success, culture, and a glimse into upcoming C.S.I. (customer satisfaction index) scores.  Auto industry managers so often use the pressure to performance management style we lose the employee's ability to learn and understand how they can contribute to the goals of the dealership as a whole.  Giving your staff, from sales to service, the encouragement to move forward within their position for the greater good of the dealership is paramount to achieving employee longevity and stability within your entire staff.  Manager report cards come from the very people they are trying to lead and winning your staff through knowledge, guidance, and encouragement gives great people a sense of purpose and contribution to the good of the entire organization, which will increase performance and commitment.  Many dealerships have bought into this philosophy and have slowed down the revolving door of really talented people.  Tip:  Never have an employee without at least one year tenure shadow, train, or assist in the development of process within your store.  This pitfall, where a relatively new employee that does not understand the process, system, or culture themselves attempts to melt a new piece of fabric into the current environment.  Great teams are put together one position at a time and the managers should have a weekly staff meeting so they can measure the E.S.I. (employee satisfaction index) within the dealership and all departments.  Discussing portions of your dealership culture will enable suttle changes where management can win with the staff while assisting those in need of melting into the entire make up of your store.  Measure your E.S.I. and your C.S.I. will soon follow.