By Vicki Davis
Change can be unsettling, but it’s a part of life and necessary for growth.
Recently, we had to change our DMS, and although it was not my preference, we had to do it. Adaptability is key in business. Let’s discuss the various changes I’ve experienced since opening my business and their impact.
I remember receiving my first fax and being amazed. Nowadays, faxes are almost non-existent, replaced by email. Email has revolutionized how we communicate with our customers. We can now send applications via email, making the process more efficient.
Initially, I was hesitant about having a website. However, it’s become an essential part of doing business, providing an online presence for customers to find us. Updating it regularly and posting images of our inventory is crucial. I prefer using actual pictures of our cars instead of stock photos.
Years ago, cash was king. Now debit and credit cards are the norm. I never thought that would happen. Similarly, social media is now a vital marketing tool. It took some time to adapt to it, but it’s been worth it. It’s challenging to determine which platform performs the best. It’s essential to experiment and find the one that works best for your business.
Texting has become a primary means of communication, and I’ve embraced it. It’s an efficient way to conduct business, from customers asking about a car to making payments. Cell phones have become a vital part of everyday life, making it easier to work remotely, even from a hospital waiting room.
Over the past 31 years since our opening, we have experienced numerous compliance changes, and I can’t even begin to recount them all. I am immensely grateful for TIADA and its exceptional staff, who have assisted Texas dealers over the years.
In light of the latest change, I suggest dealers take advantage of a safeguards class. TIADA offers an excellent online course that you and your employees can use.
Change can be uncomfortable, but I believe that it pushes us out of our comfort zones and makes us better.
We may not always welcome change, but we must embrace it and move forward, or we may be left behind. I am confident that no one reading this wants to be left behind.
Speaking of being left behind, I would like to remind everyone about our conference scheduled for July 23 to 25 at the stunning JW Marriott in San Antonio.
Not only is this a beautiful property that you and your family will enjoy, but you will also have the opportunity to meet and converse with some of the best dealers in Texas. You can pick their brains on any subject that you need help with or have questions about.
You will receive lots of valuable education, and the expo hall will be filled with every vendor you can imagine to help you with all your needs. If you have never attended before, I urge you to give it a try, and I guarantee that you will not regret it.
