Aftermarket Salesperson Profile
Since I can remember I have always had an interest in cars. I've always loved having my head underneath the bonnet, tweaking with the engine and doing bits and pieces to my own car. I guess it just made sense to work in the automotive industry, as it would be more of a hobby than actual work!
The work I do
Primarily, the work I’m involved in includes the identification of automotive parts and products, providing customer information, conducting sales, stock control, merchandising, packaging and operating computer systems.
Also as part of general customer interaction, I am involved in the handling of telephone queries and complaints from customers and retailers and the ‘troubleshooting’ of customer problems.
I am also involved in the product ordering process from customers and retailers, which involves inputting the data into the computer and then ensuring the products are dispatched accordingly. Over the past three years, computers have played a fairly significant role in streamlining the process. Transactions are much more efficient now, simply because technology has expanded the boundaries.
Especially in the aftermarket sector, technology such as the internet allows us to inform our customers of any product changes or additions through our website. Through the internet we are also able keep up-to-date with what is happening overseas. This often generates some excellent initiatives that we can adopt.
I usually work around 40 hours a week. It doesn't require a huge amount of hours.
My workplace
Because we are a wholesaler and supplier, the set-up is fairly similar to an office warehouse. The layout is pretty good, however as the company is continually expanding, we are looking to move to larger premises fairly shortly. But it's a great business with an enormous reputation, which is one of the main reasons why I came here.
The atmosphere is good. All the guys are great fun, and everyone gets along really well and does their job and helps out with whatever they can do to make sure things get done.
Education and training
After I completed year 12, I didn’t have any immediate plans to
enter university or TAFE. I entered the retail sector of the automotive
industry, dealing with sales, clothing production control and a whole heap
of different things.
>> course/qualification
Why I love this industry…
I love dealing with cars, whether it be working on the mechanics or dealing with accessories. Being in this industry I am able to talk with a lot of like-minded people, and I’m always coming across so many different personalities, who all have a common interest – cars! Everyone remains very friendly and I often find myself talking with someone on the other side of the country that you don't really know, but they are still easy going.
I am looking to remain in the aftermarket sector for a long time. I want to continue on here, and obviously move with the company as it grows. How big it grows is hard to say, but I will definitely stay within the automotive industry. Further down the track I would love to get involved in management, utilising my business background.