Welcome to a special series where I interview industry leaders LIVE during the NADA Show!

I’m standing on stage at the LotLinx booth right in front of Dominic Scruggs, a seasoned automotive industry veteran who made waves by boosting his sales by a staggering 241% within a year using cutting-edge machine learning marketing techniques. Featured in Automotive News for his remarkable successes, Dominic shares his insights and journey from a 20-year tenure as a general manager in the car business to founding Willowood Ventures.

Dominic delves into his insightful approach to used car acquisition, emphasizing the importance of having the cleanest cars at the lowest prices. He believes that the key to success lies in the service department, where the story of each vehicle unfolds. By targeting the specific cars his market desires, identified through customer service appointments, Dominic ensures a seamless transition into the sales process.

Through his experience, Dominic reveals the significance of targeting existing customers with scheduled appointments as the low-hanging fruit in the sales ecosystem. Leveraging customer familiarity and vehicle history, he explains how to keep clients within the dealership's ecosystem for repeat business and retention.

Transitioning to marketing strategies, Dominic sheds light on the common challenges faced by dealerships, such as stagnant inventory due to pricing or visibility issues. By addressing each car's unique selling points early on, he highlights the importance of understanding the vehicle's market positioning for swift and profitable sales.

Drawing from his expertise, Dominic shares his tactics for standing out in a sea of generic third-party listings by crafting compelling and distinctive vehicle descriptions. He unveils insider tips on refining listing descriptions to showcase the uniqueness and value of each car, ultimately driving sales and maximizing profitability.

Tune in to discover the transformative insights and strategies shared by Dominic Scruggs that are guaranteed to revolutionize your approach to automotive sales and marketing!

Dominic Scruggs, Founder & CEO, Willowood Ventures and 20-year General Manager

http://linkedin.com/in/dominic-scruggs-86958867 | https://willowoodventuresllc.com | dom.scruggs@gmail.com | 864-909-6038

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

Welcome to a special series where I interview industry leaders LIVE during the NADA Show!

Meet Aleks Keric, General Manager of the Murgado Automotive Group in Chicago! We get into the world of used car strategies and risk management in the automotive industry. In this insightful conversation, Aleks sheds light on how managing risk can be a powerful strategy, often overlooked by operators who fail to see its potential impact.

We explore the challenges of taking in a high volume of trade-ins on a busy day, with a slammed service department, and the risks involved in owning inventory for retail. Alex shares his unique approach to risk management, likening it to monitoring the stock market, and emphasizes the importance of focusing on at-risk cars with low demand to optimize sales.

As a dedicated user of LotLinx, Aleks reveals how AI and machine learning tools have revolutionized his decision-making process, particularly in identifying cars that require more marketing activity. By leveraging LotLinx's VVO tool and collaborating closely with his marketing team, Alex streamlines his operations and accelerates the sales cycle, ultimately saving costs and boosting efficiency.

Discover the innovative strategies Aleks has implemented to adapt his business in 2024, including the implementation of a strict 60-day hard turn policy. Learn how he maximizes vehicle descriptions with compelling language, incorporating ChatGPT and emojis to enhance customer engagement and drive sales.

Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights from Alex Carrick on transforming risk management into a strategic advantage and optimizing used car operations in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

Welcome to a special series where I interview industry leaders LIVE during the NADA Show!

Really fun chatting with Joe Shaker, the innovative car dealer and founder of Tru Video, to uncover the transformative power of technician videos in the service department and beyond. With a track record of selling over 10,000 cars annually, Joe shares his insights on leveraging video content to drive customer loyalty, profits, and eliminate doubt in the automotive service experience.

Discover how Joe's journey began with a focus on addressing customer doubts and enhancing transparency in service work through visual aids and proof in the form of engaging videos. By embracing trust and transparency, Joe revolutionized the customer experience and set a new standard for service excellence in the automotive industry.

Explore the impact of video content on consumer behavior, as Joe emphasizes the preference for visual communication over traditional text-based or verbal interactions. With an impressive 850,000 video views per month and over 1 million videos sent, Joe's approach resonates with modern consumers who value concise and engaging communication.

Learn about the evolution of the Maintenance Program Inspection (MPI) tool and its limitations in effectively communicating car health issues to customers. Joe highlights the importance of video content in bridging this gap and enhancing the sales equation by providing a clear and visual understanding of vehicle problems.

Uncover the remarkable statistic that 34% of videos were shared, indicating their effectiveness in influencing decision-makers and driving customer engagement. By sending videos to spouses or other key decision-makers, Joe's team successfully increased the impact and reach of their video content, leading to improved customer satisfaction and retention.

Join us as we explore Joe Shaker's pioneering approach to leveraging video content in the automotive service industry and learn how these strategies can revolutionize customer experiences, drive loyalty, and boost profitability in dealership operations.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

Eric and I drop a lot of important actions that improve dealer profitability and customer loyalty!

Sooooo meet Eric Glass! The esteemed Senior Director of Sales Engineering and Product Enablement at CallRevu, as we explore the dynamic world of communication intelligence in the automotive industry. With over two decades of experience in enterprise SaaS, Eric shares invaluable insights into managing high-performing teams and revolutionizing the customer experience!

💬 ericglass@callrevu.com

Eric collaborates with dealership teams and gives us some techniques to leverage communication intelligence and personalize the customer journey, ultimately enhancing satisfaction and fostering loyalty among car buyers. Through call tracking software, Eric empowers sales and service teams to analyze interactions, gain new perspectives, and optimize conversions and relationships. When this is done on a reg, dealerships boost profits and CSI!

We talk openly about how CallRevu's cutting-edge call interaction monitoring technology transforms the customer journey, leading to tangible improvements for clients. Eric provides real-world examples of how this technology has optimized processes and elevated customer satisfaction levels.

Explore the common pain points faced by dealerships in the call handling process for both service and sales, and learn actionable strategies to address and resolve these challenges effectively. Eric sheds light on the best practices adopted by top-performing dealerships in terms of processes and accountability, offering valuable insights into achieving superior results in both departments.

Uncover the significance of daily reporting and analytics in driving better business decisions for dealerships. Learn how data derived from call interactions can inform strategic decisions, enhance operational efficiency, and drive revenue growth. Discover how dealerships can leverage this information to gain a competitive edge and elevate the overall customer experience.

Tune in to this episode to gain expert advice from Eric Glass on harnessing communication intelligence to revolutionize dealership operations and drive sustainable growth in the automotive industry!

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

Welcome to a special series where I interview industry leaders LIVE during the NADA Show!

This is a thought-provoking episode! Meet Kayla Kody, an esteemed industry leader in automotive who oversees three thriving dealerships in Virginia. Through Kayla's highly modern and outside the box decision making, we delve into the transformative power of cultivating a culture that fosters employee retention and long-term success!

Kayla candidly shares her journey of navigating the challenges of high turnover rates when she first assumed leadership roles in the dealership realm—a true "trial by fire" that sparked a realization about the critical importance of investing in people. Discover why Kayla challenges the common notion that leaders hesitate to allocate resources to training out of fear that employees might leave, posing the counter-question: what if they stayed and flourished within the organization?

Exploring the dynamic environment of three interconnected stores brimming with collective knowledge, Kayla unveils the innovative strategies she implemented to promote collaboration and knowledge-sharing among departments. From incentivizing competitions with tangible rewards to fostering a culture of learning where veterans and fresh perspectives converge, Kayla's approach emphasizes the value of diverse experiences and continuous growth.

Learn how Kayla orchestrates engaging training sessions that actively involve managers in observing and supporting their teams' development. By creating opportunities for hands-on learning and real-time feedback, Kayla ensures that every individual receives the guidance they need to thrive in their roles.

Delve into Kayla's unique approach to leveraging personality tests like the Predictive Index to optimize team dynamics and empower individuals to align their career paths with their personal aspirations. Discover how Kayla identifies future leaders within her organization, using insights from assessments to inform recruitment decisions and guide employees towards fulfilling roles that resonate with their strengths and motivations.

In this enlightening conversation, we unravel the essence of a nurturing culture that empowers employees to build enduring careers within the automotive industry. Join us as we explore the principles and practices that underpin Kayla Kody's vision for sustainable success and employee retention in the modern dealership landscape.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

Welcome to a special series where I interview industry leaders LIVE during the NADA Show!

Meet Bruce Miller, Owner & Operator, Miller Motors & G & C Auto Sales & Service, Partner!

Join us as we follow the inspiring journey of a former salesperson turned independent car dealer, who shares his resilience and determination in the face of industry challenges. Listen as he discusses overcoming obstacles in the subprime used car market, adapting to market shifts, and maintaining a loyal team during tough times.

Despite battling terminal cancer for eight years, Bruce's motto "All Gas No Brakes" reflects his unwavering drive towards success. Discover his ambitious goal of owning 10 franchise dealerships and his message of perseverance, goal-setting, and never giving up on your dreams, even in the face of adversity. Tune in for a story of determination, growth, and seizing opportunities during difficult times.

Listen to his previous episode where he opens up about his life from salesperson to car dealer.

www.millermotorswestbank.com

🎙https://spoti.fi/3VKQqEN | 🎙https://apple.co/3TKaYKW

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

Welcome to a special series where I interview industry leaders LIVE during the NADA Show!

Empowering car buyers and car dealers with as much information to enable great customer experiences and car deals! Microsoft Autos is shortening shopping time and making the experience finding a car much more fun for buyers! She tells us how it works for both parties. They are also able to provide much more personalized information to dealers when delivering opportunities to dealers to make communicating much more personalized!

In this episode, we sit down with Lizz Callaway from Microsoft Autos as she unveils an exciting new program designed to transform the way car buyers and dealers interact. Microsoft Autos: My Garage is a game-changing platform that offers a wide array of features to help you manage your car-related needs effortlessly.

Join us as we explore the key components of My Garage, which includes its revolutionary recall alerts system. By signing up for this free service, users can receive instant notifications about any safety recalls affecting their vehicle, ensuring peace of mind for themselves and their passengers.

Research Microsoft Autos and learn more about My Garage's market value tool that provides accurate estimates of car's worth based on various factors, empowering buyers to make informed decisions when selling or trading in their vehicle.

Stay informed and entertained with the latest automotive news, reviews, and videos available on My Garage. Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply looking to stay up to date with industry trends, this feature has something for everyone.

Tune in to learn more about Microsoft Autos: My Garage and how this innovative platform is set to revolutionize the way we manage our cars.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

Welcome to a special series where I interview industry leaders LIVE during the NADA Show!

Meet Jasen Rice, CEO/Owner of LotPop! We delve into the critical aspects of inventory management in the automotive industry, focusing on the challenges and strategies for success when it comes to handling inventory volume and gross. We explore the key principle of "Carry what you sell - sell what you carry" and how dealers can optimize their inventory to drive sales efficiency.

Jasen sheds light on the significance of the first 30 days in inventory turnover, emphasizing that a substantial percentage of cars, typically 60-70%, are sold within the initial 60 days. We discuss the impact of fast depreciation rates on inventory value and the evolving dynamics of managing inventory in today's market environment.

Moreover, we uncover the importance of lead management in maximizing sales opportunities, revealing that a significant portion of leads may not immediately convert into purchases. By reevaluating how dealers engage with leads, leveraging data analytics, and refining the sales process, dealers can tap into a goldmine of potential sales from both new and aged leads.

Jasen shares insights from a revealing study on lead conversion rates, highlighting the extended timeline for lead conversion and the need for persistent follow-up strategies. We explore the concept of "working the driveway, not the lead" and how this approach can transform dealerships' sales performance by prioritizing personalized customer interactions.

Furthermore, we discuss the power of leveraging data, customer behavior insights, and optimized sales processes to enhance lead conversion rates and maximize inventory turnover. By reevaluating how dealerships allocate resources to leads and inventory, dealers can unlock hidden sales opportunities and drive sustainable growth in a competitive market landscape.

Tune in to gain valuable strategies and actionable insights on how car dealerships can revolutionize their inventory management practices to boost sales performance and drive business success in the digital age!

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.