Day 18

Ok, things are moving along. My Internet Coordinator started today and I have great hopes for her success. She has that perky, rapport building, appointment setting way about her that will definitely benefit this department.

Her entire day was spent doing Autobase training. So she went through all the sales, management and internet modules, since I'll be giving her management status. I took her around and introduced her to everyone, and sat down with the new and used Internet Managers to lay down some groundwork. I'm sure she'll be able to handle both of them just fine. They like her and since she's responsible to make them money, I know they'll work together as a team to get the job done.

To show you how valuable the Appointment Coordinator position can be, I already mentioned that last month at the last dealership I setup, the Appointment Coordinator had 200 leads, set 122 appointments (61% closing ratio) and sold 40 vehicles (33% closing ratio). Not bad for a one person operation utilizing the sales staff.

Now, let me tell you the weeks numbers I got back for last week from my New Vehicle Internet Manager - 60 lead, 20 phone calls (30%), 3 appointments (.05% closing ratio) and 1 sold (.01% closing ratio). Based on this comparison, no one will be able to tell me that if you don't want to develop a full-blown Internet Department, the Appointment Coordinator process is the way to go.

I then helped our General Manager interview for Service Advisors for the afternoon. We found a good one that will start next week.

Still suffering through some residual effects of my illness, but feeling lot better. Hope you're feeling well also.