I’ve been working in car sales for a few years now and have started considering the next big step, becoming a sales manager. It’s a pretty big shift from focusing on individual sales to managing a team, meeting dealership goals, and keeping everyone motivated, but I feel ready for the challenge.
For those of you who’ve made this transition, how did you prepare? Do dealerships usually require formal qualifications for a manager role, or is it more about proving yourself on the sales floor? I’m also curious—are expectations different at a high end dealership versus a smaller, independent one?
I’ve been looking into resources like Automotivaters, which focuses on coaching and building sustainable sales processes for automotive teams. It looks promising for learning some of the management skills I’ll need. Has anyone used them, and did it help with team management or hitting goals?
Lastly, I’d love tips on how to lead a team effectively. I’m confident in my own sales skills, but guiding others, managing time, and handling the pressure of dealership quotas feels like a whole new world.
Any advice or shared experiences would be amazing
