B2c careers in Automotive Sales

The image that comes to mind when you hear “car salesman” isn’t what it once was. Today, working in automotive sales is all about putting the customer first, having a passion for the auto industry, and matching drivers with their ideal automobile. What’s changed is a bigger commitment to transparency and ethical business practices, and consumers who have a better idea of what they want thanks to research conducted before even stepping foot in the dealership. In short, today’s automotive sales professionals need to be knowledgeable, engaging, and have a customer-first approach.

With that mindset, the right individual could have a very successful career in automotive sales. Here’s your roadmap for getting started in the field.

It’s All About the Skills

Unlike other professional sales jobs that might require an MBA or some other degree credential, launching an automotive sales career doesn’t necessarily mean that college is a requirement. Although having a bachelor’s degree is always a plus, relevant skills and sales experience will serve you well if you’re seeking a job in auto sales.

What’s perhaps the biggest draw of an automotive sales career is the fact that there is room to grow. A typical trajectory for someone who excels at the job includes management positions like sales manager, fleet manager, general sales manager, and others. Of course, you’ll have to prove yourself and learn the dealership business over the course of a couple of years. Building customer relationships and improving your computer literacy skills is key as you forge forward as well. If part of your plan is to someday manage others, it could be helpful to consider taking courses in business management, finance, or some other aspect of the automotive business that you hope to focus on. Some dealerships are big on promoting from within, but many professionals find that they have to leap from dealership to dealership in order to advance.

According to the National Automobile Dealers Association’s NADA Data 2014 report, the employment outlook at franchised new-car dealerships is on the rise across the country. As the economy continues its recovery, that means more job openings for you as dealerships expand and grow.