In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of automotive technology innovation with Pedram Faed, Vice President & General Manager at Tekion. Discover the intriguing origins of Tekion's name, rooted in both science and heritage, including a connection to a significant era when founder Jay worked alongside Elon Musk.

Pedram sheds light on Tekion's unconventional approach to product testing, such as acquiring a dealership to create a real-world environment for their solutions. He shares insights gained from this hands-on experience and the importance of embracing change through a focus on people and processes alongside technology.

Exploring the setbacks faced by Tekion, Pedram reveals how they pivoted towards contactless sales during challenging times like the Covid era, leading to a shift towards mobile-forward solutions over desktop interfaces. This shift unlocked new capabilities for dealership teams, sparking a wave of innovation within the company.

Delving deeper, we discuss the common challenges dealers face with DMS systems and how Tekion's platform addresses these issues by bridging fragmented systems and disconnected OEM portals. Pedram highlights the importance of creating an ecosystem where OEMs and dealers can collaborate seamlessly on a unified platform, driving efficiency and innovation in the automotive industry.

Join us as we unravel the journey of Tekion, from its inception to its transformative impact on the automotive tech landscape, and gain valuable insights into the future of dealership operations and technology integration.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

Meet Vicki Poponi, former C Suite Executive at Honda, now automotive industry advisor with Salesforce! SHe shares her firsthand experience with Salesforce as a game-changer in the automotive industry. Discover how Salesforce, a global force for over 24 years, is transforming automotive dealerships with its innovative solutions.

Vicki delves into the essence of Salesforce for dealers, highlighting its versatility and customization capabilities. Learn how Salesforce provides an out-of-the-box solution that covers 80% of dealership needs, allowing for seamless customization through their App Store. Explore how dealers can tailor their client systems without the hassle of complex integrations, thanks to Salesforce's open API that enables developers to create add-on features.

Unravel the power of Salesforce's Auto Cloud tailored for automotive dealers, starting from the Marketing Cloud and expanding into a comprehensive platform beyond traditional CRM capabilities. Dive into the vision of Salesforce for better customer experiences, focusing on creating seamless transitions and enhancing customer interactions throughout the sales journey.

Discover how Salesforce empowers businesses to build personalized systems that align perfectly with their unique requirements, without the need for extensive IT support. Explore the limitless possibilities of Salesforce's platform, designed to elevate sales operations and drive exceptional customer engagement in the competitive automotive landscape.

Tune in to gain valuable insights from Vicki's perspective on leveraging Salesforce to revolutionize automotive sales processes and deliver unparalleled customer experiences that drive lasting success in the industry.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

Let me know what you think of this series 👊- jennifer@edealersolution.com

In this episode, we explore the importance of using targeted lead lists to increase appointment set rates in a car dealership's service department Business Development Center (BDC).

Discover key lead lists that service department BDC agents should consider utilizing, including targeting existing customers, utilizing service reminder lists, following up with declined service leads, and identifying warranty expiration leads.

Learn how leveraging these high-quality leads can enhance appointment setting efforts, improve customer engagement, and drive success in the competitive automotive service industry.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

Service BDC is where it's at! The heart of the dealership...let that sink in...they are the start of most RO's and tasked with enabling loyal clients existence! Hit me up with your feedback - jennifer@edealersolution.com.

In this episode, we explore the crucial role of a Business Development Center (BDC) manager as a coach and trainer who actively engages with each team member. By getting in the game with their team, managers set a positive example, build trust and respect, provide real-time feedback and coaching, and identify training needs. Learn how this hands-on approach can lead to a more cohesive team and drive success in the business development arena.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

Ready to explore effective strategies for inspiring and incentivizing Business Development Center (BDC) representatives in the service department to excel in their call volume and appointment setting goals?! In this episode, I hit up creative ideas and proven methods for implementing incentives and competitions that drive motivation and performance within your BDC team.

Discover the power of performance-based bonuses that reward representatives for surpassing call volume and appointment targets, providing a tangible incentive for consistent high performance. Listen in on the impact of recognition and awards in boosting morale and acknowledging the hard work of top-performing representatives within the team or dealership.

Learn how team-based competitions can foster teamwork and friendly rivalries, encouraging collaboration and healthy competition among BDC representatives striving for excellence. Delve into the effectiveness of individual challenges tailored to each representative's goals and aspirations, offering personalized incentives for reaching key milestones and performance metrics.

Join me as I discuss the value of prizes and rewards in driving motivation and engagement, enticing BDC representatives to push their limits and achieve new heights of success. It’s time to unlock the potential of your BDC team through strategic motivation tactics and inspiring incentives.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

This is an 8-episode series focused soley on a bad ass Service BDC Department! What do you think? Hit me up! Jennifer@edealersolution.com

We don't often talk about the importance of an effective work environment including work station so here it goes! I'm diving deep on key elements essential for creating a comfortable and efficient office setup that enhances the performance of BDC representatives responsible for setting appointments in the service department.

From designing the perfect workspace with the right furniture and lighting to providing the necessary tools such as reliable computers, high-quality headsets, and CRM software, we delve into the details that can make a significant difference in the daily operations of BDC representatives. A stable internet connection, clear communication devices, and a well-crafted call script are just a few of the topics we cover to ensure that your BDC team is equipped for success.

Join us as we share practical tips, expert advice, and real-world examples to help you create an office setup that fosters focus, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Tune in to "Efficient Office Setup for BDC Success" and unlock the potential of your BDC team today!

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

Setting appointments is the name of the game! 🎯

You gotta craft compelling call guides that make all the difference in customer engagement, appointment conversions, and overall service experience! Join me as I explore a step-by-step process for scheduling appointments, outlining key actions and the benefits they bring along the way.

Here's a sneak peek at what you can expect:

✅ Introduction and Greeting | Learn how a warm greeting sets the right tone and builds rapport from the get-go.

✅ Identifying Customer's Needs | Discover the power of active listening in understanding and addressing customer requirements.

✅ Providing Service Information | Uncover tips on explaining services, appointment availability, and promotions to drive customer interest.

✅Offering Solutions and Recommendations | Find out how tailored recommendations can empower customers to make informed decisions and secure appointments seamlessly.

Tune in to gain insights, strategies, and best practices that can elevate your appointment setting game and leave customers delighted with their service experience. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable tips for mastering the art of engaging customers over the phone!

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

Welcome back! I’m drawing attention to common weaknesses faced by car dealership service department and BDC representatives during customer calls and explore strategies to overcome these challenges for improved customer satisfaction and business success. In this episode, I’m focusing on empowering dealership personnel to enhance customer interactions and foster lasting relationships.

I confront common weaknesses such as low energy, lack of engagement, long hold times, failure to offer solutions, reluctance to ask for appointments, lack of customer information, absence of control and rapport, minimal customer interactions, and instances where customers perceive dealerships as expensive or are directed to other service providers. Discover how addressing these weaknesses head-on can transform customer interactions and elevate the dealership's service experience.

Learn why injecting energy and enthusiasm into customer interactions is vital for creating a positive impression and driving customer engagement. Explore the impact of minimizing hold times and proactively offering solutions to meet customer needs promptly and efficiently. Understand the importance of building rapport, gathering customer information, and taking control of the conversation to deliver exceptional service and foster customer loyalty.

Listen in and equip your dealership personnel with the tools and strategies needed to address common weaknesses, enhance customer interactions, and elevate the service department's performance to new heights of excellence.

Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com

🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥

LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability.

CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.