The automotive sector, particularly aftersales, is having to adapt from what was traditional mechanics to a whole new electrical world where vehicles are more software focused.
My friend was a Service Advisor at Hamilton Audi and suggested I try to get a job with her. I applied for a role at Glasgow Audi and she put in a good word but unfortunately I was unsuccessful. The interviewers thought I would be better starting at a smaller dealership so kept my details and offered me a Showroom Host position at Hamilton Audi a few months later. The same friend then went off maternity leave 9 months later and I was promoted to Service Advisor to cover her and it went from there!
I didn’t really know what to expect to be honest, I had worked in a pub for nearly 2 years and just desperately needed a change with better opportunities. I think I’m surprised at how much I have enjoyed my different roles over the years though so my opinion has definitely changed on what the sector is like.
I like to problem solve, so I’m in the best role for that! I enjoy the pace of the centre I work at and the different people I’ve met here. I enjoy the fact that no day is ever the same and I take pride in the wonderful team I’ve helped build. Most importantly I enjoy showing the younger ladies in the team that there are women in management and if they work hard and want it, they could be where I am in a few years and I think that’s really important.
My role mainly involves supporting my team of 5 service advisors to provide the highest quality customer service. Whether that be assisting them day to day or helping them to navigate any obstacles are in their way. I also help oversee our used car stock along with the vehicle prep team and help schedule sold and stock cars through the workshop and carry out administrative duties.
The skills I use and have developed over the years are problem solving, adaptability, delegation, emotional empathy and operational proficiency.
The automotive sector, particularly aftersales, is having to adapt from what was traditional mechanics to a whole new electrical world where vehicles are more software focused. It presents it’s challenges but its exciting, especially for those of us who are prepared to learn and grow, because I think it will be a career path still available for generations to come despite the ever-changing world.
What I would say is its certainly not for everyone but if you’re hard working, determined and want a career change where you will never be bored, then consider the motor sector. There are so many opportunities and different roles you can really go anywhere with the right mindset. I think a lot of people hear that you work in the motor sector and automatically think Salesperson, but its so, so much more than that!
I was incredibly fortunate to work with some fantastic people, but 2 managers in particular really saw something in me and pushed me to be the best I could be. Without them, I’m not sure I would have had the confidence or worked up the determination to be where I am. I think the motor sector needs more inspiring managers like that and if I manage to inspire just one person the way they inspired me, I’d be very happy. My main goal is to be led by their wonderful example.
