What better time to leave the old way of doing business behind than right now? The New Year is only weeks away, Saddam has been captured and the economy looks promising. So why not commit to improving the way you treat customers? Here are just a few items taken from the Average Auto Consumer’s Holiday Wish List:

Sales
When I contact you by e-mail, please respond within 24 hours with accurate and honest information. Don’t lie to me just to get me to come to the dealership.

Listen to my needs and present features and benefits about vehicles that will meet those needs. Don’t sell me a particular model just because you make the most money from it.

When I say no, find out what my concerns are in a professional manner and address my concerns. Endless hours of negotiating make both of us unhappy and ruin future relationships.

Finance
Provide me with an overview of how your products actually benefit me and I might buy them. Don’t try to slide things in by saying, "All of our cars have it" or "That’s included!"

Be straight with me about how my financing options will affect me several years from now. If I’m going to be stuck with this car for 7 years because the financing will put me in a serious negative equity position, at least let me know. You may lose a deal now, but I’ll never buy from you again if you stick me like that.

Service
Treat me like you want me to come back again and again.

Meet me at my car and show me how you can save me time.

I want to know my vehicle is in good operating condition, so please let me know when maintenance items need attention.

Make it convenient and comfortable for me to do business with you. Offer a variety of hours, services and a clean and accomodating waiting area.

Treat customers the way they wish to be treated and your dealership will bring tidings of profitability and great CSI for the New Year and years to come.