95 Percent of Consumers Say New Vehicle Salespeople are Respectful

Washington DC May 31,2005; AIADA newsletter reported that a new survey conducted by Automotive Retailing Today (ART), illustrates that the image of the automotive sales profession is outdated and lags behind people’s actual experience --more than 1,100 new vehicle buyers and consumers regardless of ethnicity overwhelmingly say that salespeople are respectful, professional and reasonable in their dealings.

In total, ART surveyed 887 new vehicle buyers, 147 car shoppers and 630 general consumers for their opinions about the automotive profession. The most outstanding statistic -- consistent across ethnic groups -- was that 95 percent of the respondents felt that vehicle salespeople behave in a respectful manner. The survey also showed that vehicle salespeople are consistent throughout the transaction (84 percent -- 93 percent), took the time to listen to the consumer’s needs (79 percent -- 88 percent) and showed a willingness to negotiate to the satisfaction of all parties (82 percent -88 percent).