Changes in the Automotive Industry
Before I begin, I want to take a moment to say that I hope everyone reading this blog is healthy and safe. For those individuals and families facing and fighting the COVID-19 virus, you’re in my thoughts and prayers. I also want to give many thanks to those of you who are following the call for social responsibility, which in this case means being less social. I believe all of us would agree that COVID-19 is causing an unprecedented level of disruption in our personal lives and our businesses.
As the world slows down around us, it’s important for all of us to continue communicating and searching for the right perspective to apply to both our business and our personal lives. Together, we can all work to contain, and hopefully eliminate this virus. As a result of these challenges, we will all be stronger and better prepared for the next generation of innovation in our industry!
I have the privilege of working with some of the best dealers in the country, and for the last year and a half, we have talked about preparing for an industry downturn. While this was certainly unexpected, as most are, we find ourselves in a situation that has all of us learning how to do things differently. If we don't, we put the health and safety of so many at risk, and will likely set back the strides we've made as an industry.
How Dealers Are Adapting
Over the last week, I have been excited to hear how dealers are adapting their business models and I have been impressed by the profound changes being made so quickly. These changes not only take care of, and ensure the safety of their employees, but make it easier for customers to do business with their dealerships. That, my friend, is a good thing! From new pickup and delivery options available to Service and Parts customers, to perfecting the consumer online purchasing experience of new and used vehicles, now is the time to change and implement new processes. This rapid operational transformation means we can effectively gauge the impact these changes have on the business.
To me, the most interesting part is our willingness and eagerness to continue implementing these new changes and best practices as we move throughout this challenging, unpreceded time. Hopefully, many of you will see the changes transform your business and have the ability to share your success with your non-competing peers. Together, we can help each other succeed and make our industry better than before.
Be the Leader in Your Community
As I conclude this blog, I want to leave you all with a final thought. Please remember that you are leaders in your business and your community. I encourage all of you to stay positive and be strong, and to set the example of contributing to struggling business in your community. One day very soon, we will look back on this time and be better for it!