What Is a Car Salesman and How to Become One

Car Salesmen assist customers in selecting and purchasing a vehicle that best suits their needs. A Car Salesmen is a key team member at any car dealership, facilitating all aspects of a car sale, from greeting the customer to closing the deal. They explain car features and warranty programs, administer test drives, and complete paperwork for car sales. Some Car Salesmen are also required to schedule car deliveries and maintenance checks, attend meetings, adhere to sales and business goals, and create marketing items.

To become a Car Salesmen, you need to earn a high school diploma or GED certificate to demonstrate standard reading and math skills. Once you secure an entry-level job in car sales, study the different car models to strengthen your vehicle product knowledge and problem-solving skills. Those skills will enable you to effectively explain car features and warranty programs. Consider earning a degree in business management or marketing to work toward a car sales management or administration role.

Every Car Salesmen approaches sales differently, but good salesmen share key qualities and skills. A good salesman is trustworthy, and can explain accurate features, advantages, and disadvantages of a car before selling it. Successful Salesmen also have keen product and business knowledge, excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and a charismatic personality that engages customers. Car Salesmen deal with all aspects of the sale, including completing the paperwork associated with the sale, so having strong organizational skills is also essential.

The primary goal of a Car Salesmen is to sell cars. This position may be good for job seekers who can provide excellent customer service, tailor their sales approach to specific customer needs, overcome customer concerns, and negotiate effectively. Many Car Salesmen can receive financial incentives for exceptional work along with vehicle discounts.

Like other sales professionals, Car Salesmen typically earn a base salary plus commission for each vehicle they sell. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in May 2016, car salesmen earned up to $17 hourly. Nearly two-thirds of a Car Salesman’s pay comes from sales commissions. Car Salesmen who exceed the standards set by management can also earn bonuses that boost their regular pay.

Job Summary

We are looking for a motivated individual to join our team as a Car Salesman. Your primary job duties will include developing a relationship with customers, discussing what they are looking for in a vehicle, showing them different cars on our sales floor that offer features they want and need, such as convenience or luxury upgrades and colors, then explaining pricing and financing options. Your goal is to provide a positive sales experience and ensure the customer is happy with their purchase. When not working with walk-in customers, you will develop and pursue leads through phone calls, emails, and social media platforms. Familiarity with customer relationship management software is a definite plus.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist clients at the dealership in finding the best vehicle to match their needs
• Establish positive and lasting relationships with customers
• Develop leads through the phone, emails, and online platforms to find potential customers
• Showcase our entire line of vehicles and current sales specials, including recent and upcoming models
• Guide customers through the financing process and payment options

Requirements and Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED certificate; associate or bachelor's degree in sales, business, or marketing is a plus
• Prior automotive sales or consulting experience preferred
• Professional, personable demeanor
• Excellent communication skills