Category Archives: Consumer Advice

What is the worst thing we have to endure?

Would it be a visit to the dentist? Dealing with family members that you have little-to-no patience with? What about the after affects of a break-up with a bad ex? Bullying?

A lot of people will tell you that purchasing a new vehicle is right up there.

Does it have to be a bad experience whenever there’s tens of thousands of dollars on the line? Whenever I visit a dealer, I try to find a vibe there. Would I be able to have a conversation with a salesperson? Would this salesperson know everything about the products he or she sells? Is there respect for the entire buying experience – or, will the sales manager and the salesperson gang up on you to get the vehicle sold today?

Having worked as a salesperson at a Toyota dealer in the Pacific Northwest briefly in the mid-1990s, I understand how the process works. I may not like it, but it is what we have now. There are variations on the theme – some good, some dubious. Social media also helped in changing the perception of the automobile retailer, where some engage from everything from sales to service to being a good citizen in the community and beyond.

Lately, my social media channels have been augmented by automobile retailers near and far. I studied their engagements to see where they are going with linking the retailer with the customer. It also reflects back to the dealership itself as reputations also resonate with the transaction or service appointment. Ultimately, a customer will say something whether good or bad – giving the dealership a chance to return the engagement either to remedy the issue or add layers towards a positive long-term relationship.

Has social media changed our perception of automobile retailers? You may be surprised by how much it has. Continue reading →