A smart, hardworking Internet sales person can be the key differentiator in whether a dealership’s Internet program sinks or swims. Qualities that Germain Motor Company’s director of e-commerce Jennifer Picheco has in spades, says Dealix’s Christine Coffee, regional sales manager who handles the Germain account. “Not only is she smart and hardworking,” Coffee confirms, “she is the kindest person you’ll ever meet!” Smart, hardworking, and …. kind? This sounds like a recipe for success. And with over 200 units sold via the Internet in June, Picheco's team is making headlines.

With the re-launch of their existing website, Bob King Kia of Winston Salem, North Carolina experienced a boost in sales that led them to expand their Internet program and try third party Internet leads.  The result: they sold 18 units from their Dealix leads in less than one month in July – their first month using a third party lead provider. E-commerce manager Tony Morris shared his experiences with us on what it’s like to start up an Internet department – a story that’s not far off the mark from what many progressive dealers are experiencing today.  

Enter the phrase “professional certification” in Google or Dogpile or any other major search engine and nearly 60 million entries will be displayed. While many different occupations are represented, they all share a basic purpose in common. That is to: a) set standards; b) recognize professional preparation and performance; c) provide support for continuing professional development; and d) heighten awareness, stature and prestige. 

In the second quarter of '05, the Hyundai Elantra and Subaru Forester maintained their first and second place positions as the vehicles with the highest close rates. The Honda Pilot superseded the Hyundai Accent, which fell to 29^th place. Ouch. While the Subaru Outback catapulted from 49^th place last quarter, to 4^th this quarter. Go Subaru!