On today’s episode of Inside Automotive, we’ll explore the influence of rural locality on customer purchasing patterns and the persistent hurdles in recruiting and keeping top-tier personnel. Once again, we’re joined by Ginny Bowden, the fourth-generation Dealer Principal of McClinton Auto Group.
Key Takeaways
1. According to Bowden, McClinton Auto Group has recently undergone significant personnel changes, with some staff retiring or moving on. This has led to the introduction of new team members, which presents both challenges and opportunities for growth.
2. The dealership recognized a need for change to overcome stagnation and foster growth. A shift in mindset among the staff is seen as crucial to achieving higher sales targets and expanding the business.
3. Despite the rise of online shopping, the majority of customers in rural areas still prefer to visit the dealership in person to complete their vehicle purchases. This hybrid approach highlights the importance of maintaining a strong in-person experience.
4. Bowden emphasizes the importance of continuous training for all team members, regardless of their experience level. By offering training programs like NCM, the dealership aims to build a more skilled and cohesive team.
5. While the dealership is beginning to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids, the adoption rate in rural areas remains slow. Infrastructure challenges, such as the need for upgraded parking and guardrails, also pose concerns for widespread EV use.
"We felt like we were a little bit of a sleeping giant. There’s a bigger piece of the pie that we can take, so we just decided to go for it. At the end of the day, it really is a mindset." – Ginny Bowden
