Did you know that, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), automobile salespersons are among the most important workers in automobile dealerships, accounting for 36 percent of industry employment? That's because automotive salespersons' success in selling vehicles and services determines the success of the dealer.
Auto Sales job description
Automobile salespersons are typically the first to greet customers and determine their interests. When customers are ready for assistance, automotive salespersons explain and demonstrate vehicles' features in the showroom and on the road. When all is said and done, automobile salespersons act as the mediator between their supervisor and the customer to negotiate the final terms and price of the sale.
Auto sales training
Though automobile salespersons receive on-the-job training, those who have a college degree and previous sales experience should have the best opportunities. With Internet-savvy consumers demanding more of today's automotive salespersons, automobile dealers are seeking more highly educated, technically savvy employees. And those who wish to advance to an automobile dealership management position would do well to earn a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and marketing, especially in the biggest and most successful dealerships.
Auto sales jobs abound
According to a new study by Automotive Retailing Today (ART), sales jobs are the auto careers in the greatest demand, with 45,698 vacancies nationwide. And according to the National Automobile Dealers Association, the shortage of employees is due in part to growing automobile dealership customer services and strong vehicle sales.
Securing an auto sales job
Internships and summer jobs are a great way to get started in the industry, and they often lead to full-time careers at automobile dealers, according to ART's study. Sixty-eight percent of automobile dealerships report offering summer and/or seasonal employment and internship programs, and three in four automobile dealerships report that this is an effective method to identify potential employees.
Auto sales compensation
Most automotive salespersons are paid on commission, though new hires may be guaranteed a modest salary for the first few months. Experienced automobile salespersons may draw a modest salary in addition to their commission. Larger automobile dealers may also offer bonuses and special incentive programs for exceeding sales quotas. That's why auto sales education is a sound career investment--your ability to sell makes a marked difference on your take-home pay. According to ART, the estimated salary range for automotive salespersons is $31,000-$118,000.
Enroll in a degree program today, and let higher education jump-start your auto sales career.
About the author:
Robyn Tellefsen is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.
|
Facebook
del.icio.us
Digg