How do you connect with automotive sales experts and mentors?

1 Identify your goals and needs

Before you start looking for mentors and experts, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and what kind of help you need. Do you want to improve your sales techniques, learn about new trends and technologies, or explore new opportunities and niches? Do you need feedback, advice, or referrals? Write down your goals and needs and use them as a guide to find the right people to connect with.

2 Research potential mentors and experts

When you have your goals and needs in mind, you can start searching for potential mentors and experts who match your criteria. There are various sources and methods to find them, such as online platforms and communities, offline events and associations, and personal and professional connections. Joining online groups, forums, and networks that are related to automotive sales can help you follow, interact with, and learn from experienced professionals. You can also attend offline events and join associations to meet other automotive sales professionals. Leveraging your existing personal and professional connections can help you find mentors or experts who can assist you with your automotive sales career. You can use referrals, testimonials, or recommendations to establish trust and credibility.

3 Reach out and build rapport

After you have identified some potential mentors and experts, you need to reach out to them and build rapport. You can use various channels and strategies to contact them, such as emailing a personalized and professional introduction with your resume, portfolio, or work samples attached. When calling or texting, be prepared, confident, and courteous. On social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram, follow, like, comment, and share their posts before sending a direct message with your introduction. Be genuine, engaging, and respectful when communicating with potential mentors and experts and avoid being pushy or intrusive. Thank them for their time and follow up with a confirmation message.

4 Maintain and nurture the relationship

Once you have connected with your mentors and experts, you need to maintain and nurture the relationship. You can do this by scheduling regular meetings and conversations, either online or offline, to discuss your goals, challenges, progress, and feedback. It's important to prepare, listen, ask, and learn while respecting their time and expertise. Additionally, you should send occasional updates and acknowledgments via email, phone, or social media to share your achievements and express gratitude. Occasional gifts and favors can further show your appreciation and generosity. You can also offer to help them with their projects, goals, or needs or refer them to other opportunities or contacts. Ultimately, follow up on their suggestions and guidance while celebrating their achievements, support, and impact.

5 Expand and diversify your network

Finally, you can expand and diversify your network by connecting with other mentors and experts who can help you with different aspects of your automotive sales career. You can also connect with other automotive sales professionals who are at your level or below, and share your knowledge, experience, and support. You can use the same tips and strategies that we have discussed above to find and connect with them. By expanding and diversifying your network, you can increase your exposure, learning, and opportunities in the automotive sales industry.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?