Landing a job interview at a dealership is a great start, but it’s not just about ticking off the skills checklist. To truly thrive in your next role, you need to find a workplace where you fit – a place where your values align with the company culture and where you feel supported and empowered to grow.
Think of company culture as the personality of a workplace. It’s the unspoken rules, the shared values, and the overall atmosphere that can make or break your experience. A positive culture fosters teamwork, encourages open communication, and values employee wellbeing. In the fast-paced world of dealerships, a strong culture can be the difference between a thriving team and a revolving door of employees.
But how do you uncover a dealership’s true culture during the interview process? Asking the right questions can reveal a wealth of information, helping you make an informed decision about whether this is the right opportunity for you.
Why company culture matters
Research shows that employees who feel a strong sense of belonging in their workplace are more productive, more engaged, and more likely to stay in their roles longer. A positive company culture leads to:
- Increased productivity and innovation: When employees feel valued and supported, they’re more likely to go the extra mile and contribute their best work.
- Stronger teamwork and collaboration: A positive culture fosters a sense of community, where everyone works together towards shared goals.
- Higher employee morale and retention: When people enjoy coming to work, they’re less likely to leave. This reduces turnover costs and helps maintain a stable and experienced team.
- Improved customer satisfaction: Happy employees lead to happy customers. A positive work environment translates to better customer service and stronger relationships.
Questions to uncover the truth
Here are some key questions to ask during your interview to get a feel for the dealership’s culture:
Values and work environment
- “What are the dealership’s core values, and how are they reflected in day-to-day work?” Don’t just settle for a generic answer. Look for specific examples of how those values are put into practice. For instance, if they say they value “customer focus,” ask how they measure and reward excellent customer service.
- “How does the dealership celebrate success?” Do they acknowledge individual achievements? Are there team celebrations? This reveals how they value their employees. Look for signs that they appreciate both individual contributions and collaborative efforts.
- “Can you describe the typical work environment? Is it more collaborative or independent?” This is especially important in dealerships, where teamwork is often crucial for success. If you thrive in a team-oriented environment, ensure the company encourages collaboration and open communication.
- “How does the company promote work-life balance?” Long hours can be common in dealerships. Ask about flexible work arrangements, overtime policies, and how they support employee wellbeing. Inquire about initiatives like early finishes on Fridays, rostered days off, or opportunities to work from home.
- “How does the company handle conflict or disagreements?” Look for answers that emphasise open communication and respectful resolution. Do they have a structured process for addressing conflict, or is it handled more informally?
Leadership and management style
- “How would you describe the leadership style within the dealership?” Is it supportive and empowering, or more top-down and directive? Ask for specific examples of how managers motivate and guide their teams.
- “What opportunities are there for training and career development?” Do they invest in their employees’ growth? Do they offer manufacturer-sponsored training or internal mentorship programs? Find out if they have a clear path for career progression within the dealership.
- “Can you share an example of how a manager supported their team?” This can reveal a lot about the leadership style and how they value their employees. Look for examples that demonstrate empathy, trust, and a commitment to employee growth.
Employee engagement and feedback
- “What makes you proud to work at this dealership?” This gives the interviewer a chance to share their personal experience and what they value most. Pay attention to their enthusiasm and whether their answer aligns with your own values.
- “How does the company encourage feedback and communication?” Do they have regular performance reviews? Are there opportunities for open dialogue with management? Look for signs that they value employee input and actively seek feedback.
- “What initiatives are in place to support employee morale and engagement?” Look for things like team-building activities, recognition programs, or social events. Do they have any initiatives to promote mental health and wellbeing?
Red flags to watch out for
While asking questions is crucial, also pay attention to these potential red flags in their responses:
- Vague answers or inconsistencies. If their answers seem evasive or contradict information you’ve found online, it could be a sign that they’re not being entirely transparent.
- Negative body language or a dismissive attitude. Pay attention to non-verbal cues. If the interviewer seems uncomfortable or dismissive when discussing certain topics, it could indicate underlying issues.
- Lack of enthusiasm from the interviewer. If they don’t seem genuinely excited about their work or the company, it might indicate a lack of overall employee engagement.
- High employee turnover. If the company has a high turnover rate, it’s worth investigating why. It could be a sign of deeper problems within the dealership.
Beyond the interview
- Do your research: Check out their website, social media, and employee reviews on sites like Seek and Indeed. Look for mentions of the company culture, work-life balance, and employee satisfaction.
- Observe the workplace: If you have an in-person interview, pay attention to the atmosphere and how employees interact. Do they seem happy and engaged? Is the environment collaborative and supportive?
- Network: Reach out to current or former employees for their perspectives. LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for connecting with people who can provide insights into the company culture.
By being proactive and observant, you can gain valuable insights into a dealership’s culture and make an informed decision about whether it’s the right fit for you. A positive and supportive work environment is crucial for your long-term career success and happiness, and the extra steps you take in finding a role with a positive company culture will pay off.
Teamrecruit is Australia’s most established recruitment agency specialising in truck, earthmoving and agricultural machinery dealerships in Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and Southeast Asia. Find out more about Teamrecruit and how we support employers and candidates in the dealership industry.
