Being a woman in the auto industry…
I didn’t start off in life thinking “man, I want to work in the car business” No; actually the road to my career in the auto industry started when I was a new transparent to the pacific northwest 8 years ago. Having been in the health care industry for 20 plus years I got a job at a chiropractor’s office thinking it was something different then the home health, hospice and physical therapy I was use to doing but still be working with people. It was fine but I was basically a receptionist and didn’t feel fulfilled. One day the gal that did the books said “Simone you are wasting yourself here; they are looking for a customer relations manager at Dick Hannah Honda and you would be perfect.” I thought to myself, a car dealership? Boy, I’ve purchased vehicles in the past and did not have anything good to say about my experience and how could that possibly be something I would enjoy or feel good about, but she convinced me that the Hannah’s were wonderful people and I should give it a shot. So I gathered up some courage and went in to meet with the manager; he asked what my experience in the car business was? I said “Well, I owned a few but I’ve been taking care of people with amputations, strokes, and so on, I think I could handle buyer’s remorse.” Not even knowing I wanted the job for sure, I seemed to have convinced him I was the women for it. Now 8 years later, I can say from my heart; if it weren’t for the Hannah’s, I more than likely would not be in the business. I can also say it has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I still get to work with people and help them but in a different way obviously; and the Hannah’s truly ARE wonderful people. Funny, when I hear people talk about car folk with negativity I have to smile. I remember those feelings years back and can say to them with conviction; you can feel safe with us. We haven’t forgotten it’s our customers that have kept us in business since 1949. We appreciate the trust they put in us. We will be here to take care of them long after they drive away.
I have many friend/customers that have been with me since the beginning. I love seeing their smiling faces as they make a special trip over to see me and catch up on what’s been going on in each other’s lives. Lots of funny and exciting stuff and yes, sometimes the loss of friends and family. I can say to any one woman out there that if you love working with people and enjoy a challenge yet rewarding career; this is the business for you. Thank you for taking the time to read a bit about my life in the auto business. I hope it helps you make a decision on your career or where you may buy or maintain your present or next vehicle.
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