The Power Of Inventory In Your Dealership, Starting a Business With a Friend, The Future of Auto Retail | Dan Collingridge
12/28/23 • 25 min
1 Listener
It all began with automotive inventory management software.
I never imagined I'd end up in the automotive industry. Back in the day, my childhood buddy Dan Collingridge and I had this grand plan of starting a record label and radio station dedicated to alternative rock music, the dream we called 1500 am THE PITT. I went to school to chase my sound engineering certificate, and Dan pursued his master’s degree in computer science. We were on the brink of making THE PITT a reality!
Life had different plans, though. As adulthood kicked in, I found myself in the automotive world, merchandising vehicles for dealer groups across Vancouver, Canada. With each passing day, my exposure to the industry deepened, and so did my desire to assist the dealers I worked with.
That's how the idea came from. We crafted what is now the most dependable inventory management software in the industry.
As for that sound engineering degree, I may not have become a famous radio DJ, but it did inspire me to launch The Dealer Playbook podcast.
What We Discuss In This Episode:
- The Unlikely Partnership: Dan and I reflect on the remarkable journey from being friends since high school to becoming successful business partners. We explore the unique dynamics of turning a long-lasting friendship into a thriving CEO-CTO collaboration.
- Finding the Perfect Harmony: Discover the secrets behind the success of our partnership. We unveil how our distinct personality traits, honed through years of friendship, became the driving force behind FlexDealer.com's innovation.
- The Birth of FlexDealer.com: Dan spills the beans on how the initial idea of creating a portal for dealerships evolved into a comprehensive inventory marketing system that puts speed and control back in the hands of dealers.
- Culture as the Fuel: We delve into the significance of cultivating a positive corporate culture. Dan shares his insights on maintaining a vibrant company culture, emphasizing the importance of finding the right people to sustain the unique vibe of FlexDealer.com.
- Inventory as the Nucleus: As we navigate through the complexities of the automotive industry, Dan sheds light on the critical role of inventory in our technology-driven era. Learn how FlexDealer.com's innovative solutions empower dealerships to streamline processes, from capturing inventory to rapid market deployment.
- The Future of Auto Retail: We wrap up the episode with a glimpse into the future of auto retail. Dan discusses the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and how technology will continue to shape the landscape of the automotive industry.
Listen to the full episode for insights and context from Dan Collingridge!
⭐️ Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your LinkedIn or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally!
Thanks, Dan Collingridge!
If you enjoyed this episode featuring Dan Collingridge, support us by clicking the links!
Connect with Dan Collingridge on LinkedIn
Connect with Michael Cirillo
Connect with Michael on LinkedIn
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It all began with automotive inventory management software.
I never imagined I'd end up in the automotive industry. Back in the day, my childhood buddy Dan Collingridge and I had this grand plan of starting a record label and radio station dedicated to alternative rock music, the dream we called 1500 am THE PITT. I went to school to chase my sound engineering certificate, and Dan pursued his master’s degree in computer science. We were on the brink of making THE PITT a reality!
Life had different plans, though. As adulthood kicked in, I found myself in the automotive world, merchandising vehicles for dealer groups across Vancouver, Canada. With each passing day, my exposure to the industry deepened, and so did my desire to assist the dealers I worked with.
That's how the idea came from. We crafted what is now the most dependable inventory management software in the industry.
As for that sound engineering degree, I may not have become a famous radio DJ, but it did inspire me to launch The Dealer Playbook podcast.
What We Discuss In This Episode:
- The Unlikely Partnership: Dan and I reflect on the remarkable journey from being friends since high school to becoming successful business partners. We explore the unique dynamics of turning a long-lasting friendship into a thriving CEO-CTO collaboration.
- Finding the Perfect Harmony: Discover the secrets behind the success of our partnership. We unveil how our distinct personality traits, honed through years of friendship, became the driving force behind FlexDealer.com's innovation.
- The Birth of FlexDealer.com: Dan spills the beans on how the initial idea of creating a portal for dealerships evolved into a comprehensive inventory marketing system that puts speed and control back in the hands of dealers.
- Culture as the Fuel: We delve into the significance of cultivating a positive corporate culture. Dan shares his insights on maintaining a vibrant company culture, emphasizing the importance of finding the right people to sustain the unique vibe of FlexDealer.com.
- Inventory as the Nucleus: As we navigate through the complexities of the automotive industry, Dan sheds light on the critical role of inventory in our technology-driven era. Learn how FlexDealer.com's innovative solutions empower dealerships to streamline processes, from capturing inventory to rapid market deployment.
- The Future of Auto Retail: We wrap up the episode with a glimpse into the future of auto retail. Dan discusses the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and how technology will continue to shape the landscape of the automotive industry.
Listen to the full episode for insights and context from Dan Collingridge!
⭐️ Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your LinkedIn or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally!
Thanks, Dan Collingridge!
If you enjoyed this episode featuring Dan Collingridge, support us by clicking the links!
Connect with Dan Collingridge on LinkedIn
Connect with Michael Cirillo
Connect with Michael on LinkedIn
- -
Leave a Review:
If you're enjoying the podcast, we'd love an honest review here.
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Socials:
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Previous Episode
Merry Christmas, Auto Industry Pros Share Their Predictions About 2024 | Michael Cirillo
Ever get caught in the hustle, only to realize Christmas is knocking on the door? Yeah, I've been there, too, and what a year. I recently took to LinkedIn and Facebook to satisfy my curiosity about people's thoughts and predictions about what's coming in 2024 for us in the retail automotive realm.
I will be straight up with you.—it's a fascinating mix of outlooks. There are some doom and gloom thoughts, and there are then some positive thoughts. What caught my attention, though, was the disparity in responses between LinkedIn and Facebook.
Stick around as we unravel what the community says about the year ahead.
What We Discuss In This Episode:
As I dived deep into the predictions for 2024, it became clear that there was a mix of positive and negative outlooks for the industry. As I said, some expressed concerns about the harsh months ahead. However, others were more optimistic, highlighting the potential for a strong spring selling season and increased profitability. Let's take a closer look at some of these predictions.
There are so many ways 2024 can go wrong. We could experience another global pandemic or the ever-present threat of a massive weather disaster that is always there.
Dominic Scruggs, an automotive solutions provider, believes that 2024 will have its challenges but also sees the potential for a year similar to 2022, depending on the election results. Matthew Lasher, the Director of West Herr Automotive Group, predicts that dealers will have to work harder for the same or less money, leading to higher turnover and challenging morale. However, he also emphasizes that 2024 will still be a fantastic year for well-capitalized dealers compared to previous years.
But I'm feeling optimistic.
As I dive into these predictions, it is clear that the retail automotive industry is poised for both challenges and opportunities. While there are still concerns about the changing market conditions and dynamics, there is also a prevailing sense of optimism and potential for growth. Dealers who approach the year with a proactive mindset, adaptability, and a focus on talent acquisition and retention will be well-positioned to thrive.
The predictions for 2024 highlight the need for dealers to stay informed, agile, and prepared for potential changes in the market. By leveraging their resources, investing in talent, and embracing new sales strategies, dealers can navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. Ultimately, success in 2024 will be determined by adapting, innovating, and delivering exceptional customer experiences in an evolving industry.
2024 awaits; take the positivity, the clarity of mindset, and the preparation needed to make it your biggest year yet.
Thanks for sticking with me through the whole year. Merry Christmas, and let's roll into the new year together. Your support means the world.
Listen to the full episode for insights and context from Michael Cirillo!
⭐️ Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your LinkedIn or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally!
Connect with Michael Cirillo
More Dealers Are Choosing To Partner with FlexDealer
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Next Episode
The Importance of Customer Experience in the Automotive Industry, The CX Mindset, GET OUT of the Customer's Way, for crying out loud! | Gary Graves
Gary Graves co-founded InteractiveTel, now TotalCX, in 2008 and presently serves as CEO. Previously, he served as the company's first Chief Technology Officer. He developed the communications platform on which the company's proprietary products are based and has been instrumental in the company's dynamic growth trajectory.
What We Discuss In This Episode:
Data-Driven Insights:
The common issues observed through data analysis including abandoned calls and excessively long call times and identifying patterns that deter customers and hinder the overall experience.
Customer Effort:
Uncover the increasing effort customers need to put in to resolve their queries. Gary highlights the challenges that hinder smooth transactions, from long hold times to frustrating callbacks.
Lose the IVR:
Gary advocates for a customer-centric mindset and its impact on transforming the traditional automotive approach. Learn why ditching the IVR (Interactive Voice Response) is the first step toward creating a seamless and positive customer experience.
The CX Mindset:
The tangible benefits of adopting a customer-centric approach, from customer loyalty to positive reviews.
Long-Term Impact:
Building customer loyalty through exceptional experiences for sustainable growth and Leveraging ratings and reviews to become the preferred choice in a competitive market.
Gary emphasizes the simplicity of caring about people and prioritizing customer experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Customer complaints about poor experiences clearly indicate issues within a dealership.
- Abandoned calls and excessively long call times are signs of a poor customer experience.
- The first step in improving the customer experience is eliminating IVRs and ensuring that phone interactions are seamless and efficient.
- Providing a positive customer experience can lead to customer loyalty and increased referrals.
Connect with Gary Graves:
- Total CX Website
- LinkedIn: Gary Graves
Catch Gary at NADA 2024 - Booth Number 4321 West.
This episode is sponsored by AutoFi. The leading commerce platform for end-to-end digital automotive sales and financing, powering billions of online transactions every year. Through its innovative platform and expansive network of trusted lenders, AutoFi empowers sellers, including the nation’s top dealers and digital retailers, to sell more efficiently and profitably.
Listen to the full episode for insights and context from Gary Graves!
⭐️ Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your LinkedIn or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally!
Connect with Michael Cirillo
Sell Smarter, Not Harder
AutoFi helps progressive dealers like you sell smarter, not harder—on your dealership
website and, now, in your showroom, too.
AutoFi solves the everyday problems dealers actually face: like bottlenecks at the sales
desk, customer distrust, and decision overloa
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