You can’t neglect fixed ops. Technically, you could, and you’d probably end up crying in the parking lot while they turn your dealership into a Costco. Fixed ops departments are carrying the store these days, so they deserve the same ongoing training and attention that the sales department receives. They probably deserve more attention than the front of the house—and donuts.

Dealer fixed operations are the hidden powerhouse in every store. Fixed ops, an industry term for the parts and service departments, made up at least49% of a dealer's gross profit in years past, and that number is expected to rise in 2021. 

As a result, many dealerships would struggle to keep the doors open without fixed operations, cementing that the back of the house is a foundation on which dealerships are built.

Full-on summer vibes are here, no matter where you are in the country. This season, more than ever, Americans are flocking to the beach, the lake, the hills, the pasture, or anywhere that isn’t home. That’s great news for the automotive industry because more time in the car translates into a greater need for accessories. Check out these hot summer accessories that will work for any vehicle on your lot. 

Release the people!

Back in the summer of '69, man, we were killin' time. We were young and restless. We needed to unwind. I guess nothing can last forever because here we are….celebrating summer by wearing masks on a test drive. 

Selling cars is a highly stressful job. 

The service drive is the glue that's holding us all together. It would be the most highly coveted glue you can imagine if you imagined coveting glue. Service is the brand new glue stick in your pencil pouch on the first day of school—the purple one. If you want to make the other kids jealous, you've got to highly emphasize your supplies. If you're going to give the other dealerships a run for their money, spotlight your brand new purple glue stick (otherwise known as Randy from the Service Department). 

Customer experience will make or break you. 

In a world of Google reviews and social media, the power belongs to the people. In 2021, customers want charcuterie boards and live streams of film festivals in the waiting room. Somewhere along the way, the automotive industry married into the hospitality industry, and now here we are—selling cars and imitating the Marriott at the same time. After a collective sigh and a group therapy session, we should all accept reality and transcend. CSI scores, referrals, and front-end gross are at stake. Dealerships in 2021 can meet and exceed OE goals, sell online and in-store, socially distance, provide a stellar 5-star experience, and create repeat business. Yes, even you, and we'll tell you how. 

There are many potential objections for a salesperson to overcome. Arguably, none are more dreaded than the deadpan reply, "I'm not interested." Customers know this is an excellent way to cut the sales pitch off before it starts. Rather than playing into that hand, overcome the objection by reopening the conversation.

While we’re spring cleaning, let’s sweep away some misconceptions about accessories. Are accessories an afterthought? A niche market? A good way to throw away your sale? *Sprays Lysol* No. No. Also, no.