May I Take Your Order?

Is it just me or does it seem like the auto manufacturers think that selling automobiles and taking an order for a pizza are the same thing? Well, truthfully, there are times when it is that easy. But is it fair to the consumer? After all, do they really know what is best for them? How many of your clients have ever bought the "wrong" truck. It happens all of the time. And it is always the salesperson's fault in their minds. Service advisors hear it all of the time! And to be fair, it probably was the salesperson's fault. The average "order taker" does not know the proper questions to ask. The average "truck buyer" does not know the right questions to ask either. Do we as Automotive Consultants have a duty to our clients? I think so. I had great advice from a sales manager at a car dealership when I was very young. I remember thinking then how much I appreciated the advice and I took it. How many times do you have a client in front of you who has been waiting for this day for years. They have sacrificed and worked hard to get that new truck. Do we owe that client a professional and caring experience? Or do we just say "tell me what you want, great, here it is, have a nice life!" Is this what we are expected to do? I feel like Rodney Dangerfield. I get no respect from the auto manufacturers! I would like to see an Undercover Boss show where a marketing guru from an vehicle manufacturer actually interacted with the customers!