Car Salesmen Are People, Too

Car salesmen have been stereotyped as being sleazy, underhanded, and untrustworthy. I used to think the same way. But, something changed my perception and in the process taught me a lesson.

At a point in my life when I needed a job, I was offered a position with a high-end car dealership. The car business was the last thing I ever thought of getting involved in, but I needed the paycheck. I planned on staying no longer than a year, but due to a variety of circumstances, one year has turned into eight.

Some of my co-workers have become friends. I discovered the majority of people in the car business (including the service department) are not out to cheat or lie to people. Just the opposite. I’ve seen them bend over backwards to accommodate customers. I’ve watched them work hard to find the right car at the right price for their clients. Salespeople and managers both have shown great integrity and have been nothing more than honest with customers who have walked through the doors.

One of our salesmen is a retired pastor who left the ministry because of burnout. He sees his job as another form of serving people. Part of his time is spent listening to people’s stories and building trust with his clients.

It’s been interesting to watch how many people walk through our doors shell shocked from experiences at other dealerships or carrying the stereotypical beliefs with them. Some are actually quite rude at first. I sit back and observe them slowly letting their guard down. Then later they show up just to say hi or bring a tray of cookies or donuts.

Through it all I’ve been reminded that car salesmen have families, dreams, goals, personal interests, problems, and joys.

I’ve learned that I shouldn’t judge something or someone by what someone else believes or has heard. It’s important to discover the truth and not make preconceived judgments.

I can’t promise that all car salesmen are honest.
But, I can verify that not all are deceitful.

I know this to be true.
Car salesmen…and women…are people, too.

Dawn