On today’s episode of Training Camp, Adam Marburger, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and F&I, welcomes automotive leader John Allen, General Manager and Vice President of Allen Chevrolet in Monroe, Michigan. Allen opens up about his journey from hitting rock bottom to becoming a successful leader in the car business, offering valuable insights into self-awareness, leadership, and training that can drive success in any dealership.
John Allen reflects on his challenging path to success, including the humbling experience of being fired from a dealership with his name on it. Despite facing personal and professional setbacks, he bounced back by reconnecting with his passion for the car business, focusing on self-improvement, and investing in his team. Allen emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, stating that personal growth and leadership go hand-in-hand.
He shares that his role as a leader at Allen Chevrolet involves a daily commitment to ensuring his employees are physically and mentally present and equipped for success. Allen insists on the power of self-investment, explaining that as a leader, one must continuously grow to set the standard for others.
He also discusses the importance of helping employees through life challenges and offering support when needed, such as providing financial assistance during tough times. According to Allen, investing in people and leading by example is crucial to cultivating a high-performing team.
Nevertheless, Allen shares how training for himself and his employees is key to maintaining success in a competitive market like Detroit. He emphasizes the need for continuous training and personal development as a cornerstone of a thriving dealership.
"When you start getting those wins and success, you can change people's lives for the better or worse. I believe in helping people change their lives for the better." – John Allen
