TSLA407.7601.21%
GM77.8501.205%
F13.9950.385%
RIVN17.480-0.64%
CYD46.190-0.88%
HMC27.9300.34%
TM176.4502.13%
CVNA65.830-1.29%
PAG194.2702.78%
LAD313.7401.76%
AN195.8003.49%
GPI299.880-3.08%
ABG211.9700.24%
SAH94.540-0.77%
TSLA407.7601.21%
GM77.8501.205%
F13.9950.385%
RIVN17.480-0.64%
CYD46.190-0.88%
HMC27.9300.34%
TM176.4502.13%
CVNA65.830-1.29%
PAG194.2702.78%
LAD313.7401.76%
AN195.8003.49%
GPI299.880-3.08%
ABG211.9700.24%
SAH94.540-0.77%
TSLA407.7601.21%
GM77.8501.205%
F13.9950.385%
RIVN17.480-0.64%
CYD46.190-0.88%
HMC27.9300.34%
TM176.4502.13%
CVNA65.830-1.29%
PAG194.2702.78%
LAD313.7401.76%
AN195.8003.49%
GPI299.880-3.08%
ABG211.9700.24%
SAH94.540-0.77%

The key to overcoming fear and rejection as a salesperson in the car dealership

On the latest episode of Straight Talk, host David Lewis, President of David Lewis & Associates, discusses dealing with rejection. Everyone deals with different types of rejection in their life. Dealership salespeople and automotive managers are extremely familiar with rejection. Lewis provides his perspective on the best way to handle one of the biggest threats to success.

Lewis discusses an acronym for the word “fear”. This acronym stands for “false evidence appearing real”. Many people live their whole life without uncovering their true potential because they constantly live in fear. Salespeople at the car dealership often create a false narrative that prevents them from taking steps towards greater success.

“If you allow the opinions and thoughts of others, real or imagined, to determine what you think about yourself, those fears will keep you from achieving those things you hope to accomplish,” said Lewis. “In other words, what you allow to influence your thoughts about your personal abilities and potential will create what you achieve in life.”

Lewis says that many salespeople believe they can’t achieve great things because of something someone said to them much earlier in their life. Many people will hold on to the words of others from a young age and allow them to shape the trajectory of their life. However, it’s crucial to overcome negativity from past experiences to create new opportunities. 

The “straight talk” answer to fear and thoughts of inadequacy is to take every opportunity to have a positive outlook on life. Lewis says that time outside the car dealership is crucial in shaping your thoughts and mentality when you’re in the car dealership. Instead of spending the evening watching mindless television, Lewis encourages car dealers and other automotive employees to spend time learning something new or finding ways to better themselves.


Did you enjoy this episode of Straight Talk? Please share your thoughts, comments, or questions regarding this topic by submitting a letter to the editor here, or connect with us at newsroom@cbtnews.com.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date or catch-up on all of our podcasts on demand.

While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe to our email newsletter for all the latest auto industry news from CBT News.

dealers

More from Headlines
2026 Q2 pickup sales: Ram rebounds, Ford F-Series remains on top

2026 Q2 pickup sales reveals Ram rebounds, Ford F-Series remains on top

- July 10, 2026
On the Dash: 2026 Q2 pickup sales were led by the Ford F-Series, followed by the Chevrolet Silverado and Ram. Ram posted a 14% sales gain, its second straight quarter...
JD Power finds AI adoption drives higher advisor satisfaction, loyalty

JD Power finds AI adoption drives higher advisor satisfaction, loyalty

- July 10, 2026
On the Dash: AI is becoming a competitive advantage when firms pair technology with effective training and implementation. Advisors who use effective AI tools report higher satisfaction, stronger loyalty, and...
Volkswagen board vote delays Blume's cost-cutting overhaul as labor pushes back

Volkswagen board vote delays Blume’s cost-cutting overhaul as labor pushes back

- July 10, 2026
On the Dash: Volkswagen's restructuring remains unresolved, creating uncertainty around future production, model strategy and manufacturing capacity. Labor opposition could delay cost reductions and operational changes the automaker says are...
Tesla brings longer Model Y to U.S. with roomier third row

Tesla brings longer Model Y to U.S. with roomier third row

- July 10, 2026
On the Dash: Model Y L Premium starts at $61,990, undercutting nothing but adding Tesla's only US three-row option Launch Series bundles free FSD (supervised), Supercharging and paint options Model...
CBT News
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.