Don’t Go Back on Your Word
Your word is your bond … or at least it should be. Each time you tell a customer you’re going to do something, you are putting your reputation on the line. You are telling that person that you have integrity, and you wouldn’t think of letting them down by going back on your promise. Think about it for a minute … how do you feel (in any walk of life) when someone says they’re going to do something, and then follows up by not doing it? It could be someone who fails to call you, who doesn’t meet an important deadline, or who neglects to follow through on something.
There was a time some years ago when a handshake was as good as a contract. That’s the way it should be today but, sadly, this is not always the case.
Some people stretch the truth when they’re in a bind. But when you tell a “little white lie” to make things better for yourself in the short term, you stand a good chance to damage a relationship in the long term.
Telling the truth builds trust which, in turn, enhances your dealership’s reputation in the community. Best of all, if you have established yourself as trustworthy, you will be given the benefit of the doubt when sticky situations arise – because your word is your bond.
There are lots of salespeople and dealerships out there that have given the automotive industry a bad rap. Do your best to see to it that yours isn’t one of those!
Former President Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office.”
Or a car dealership.
What kind of message do you want to send to your community? Make sure your word is your bond!
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