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 We’ve all had them: Managers who make going to work a reason to call in sick. They’re the ones who know it all, slam you in front of co-workers, and tell you to 'get the *%@$# out of my office and sell a *&^%$ car!'
But is dealing with this behavior entirely their responsibility? Here are a few things you can do to improve your situation:
Make it a Blockbuster Night
If you haven’t seen it yet, go out and rent Steve Martin’s 'The Jerk.' You’ll not only get a few good laughs, you’ll also learn that people who may not always be the epitome of sophistication can become very successful. And our industry has a mix of highly sophisticated managers as well as those who, shall we say, think 'tact' is something you use to hold up a calendar.
Another must see is the movie, 'Glengarry Glen Ross'. For those who have never experienced a tough sales manager, the meeting with Alec Baldwin at the beginning of the movie tells everything you need to know about motivation by shame. It’s a classic example that also reveals the differences in how salespeople react to negative circumstances.
Look Inside First
You may have heard the old saying, 'When you point your finger at someone else, there are 3 more pointing back at you.' So before you blame the boss for all your troubles, ask yourself a few key questions:
- Am I doing everything possible to become the best I am at what I do?
- Have I followed all the processes that my manager has asked me to follow with every customer?
- Do I arrive on time for work, ready to get down to business?
- Do I stay the entire shift and take only occasional breaks as needed?
- Do I provide added value to the management team and their overall goals for the dealership?
- What is the opinion of other employees about me and/or the manager?
Of course there are situations where managers are simply just jerks. You won’t be able to change that no matter what you do, and they usually treat everybody the same way. So work to understand your manager and get your own act together. There’s a good chance your situation – and your relationship – will improve!
Founder and President
Auto University, Inc.
(800) 344 4100 Headquarters (toll-free)
(313) 486 4501 Detroit
(310) 464-1510 Los Angeles
(716) 984 6611 Mobile |
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