Job Description of a Car Sales Representative

The job description of a car sales rep centers around satisfying the customer.

Though car and light truck sales fell in 2008 and 2009, nearly 17 million new vehicles were sold in 2007, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The numbers are even higher for used vehicle sales, which are often difficult to track because of personal sales. The fact is, a lot of work goes into showing and selling cars. Consequently, the job description of a car sales rep entails a lot of preparation, dedication and closing skills on behalf of the seller.

Significance

The foremost responsibility of a sales representative's job description is to show walk-in customers different cars in the showroom and outside on the dealer's lot, then close the sale that day or as soon as possible. The car sales representative must listen to what the customer wants and make recommendations based on customer preferences, allowing the customer to ultimately make the buying decision.

Identification

The job description of a used car sales representative is similar to that of one who sells new cars. Both need to make proper use of cold-calling, appointment-setting from incoming calls, postcards, fliers and advertising to generate new leads and, subsequently, get those individuals into the showroom. The job description of a car sales representative also requires that a sales employee know the proper paperwork and be able to make recommendations to the customer on available financing.

Function

The job description of a car sales representative requires the sales employee to have extensive knowledge of each car's features so they can show potential customers how to operate the vehicles. Moreover, the job description of a car sales representative includes knowing the advantages of the dealer's cars over competitive car brands so the sales employee can make a convincing presentation in favor of their dealer's cars.

Other Responsibilities

The job description of a car sales representative requires excellent organization and planning skills as sales representatives must work with a variety of customers. Some customers may be at the initial stages of buying, while others have completed their transaction. The car sales representative needs to keep track of the appointments they set, cars they show and follow up with those who purchased vehicles. Proper follow-up can create satisfied buyers and repeat customers.

Salary And Outlook

Sales representatives usually make between $40,000 and $60,000 per year. Individuals who specialize in premium brands such as BMWs or sports cars such as Corvettes and Porsches can make considerably more. The employment outlook for car sales representatives is good, though increases in new and used car sales are usually commensurate with the health of the economy.

References

• State University: Auto Sales Worker Job Description
• United States Census Bureau: Car Facts
• Mypursuit: Car Sales Person