We closely examined the intricacies and subtle nuances of the word 'value'.
We chose to incorporate this 'Value' exercise early into our corporate trainings and workshops and it quickly serves to align mindsets towards a greater mission.
I thought you might enjoy a glimpse into how we set the stage for successful outcomes with each and every client.
Could this type of thinking help your company increase its perceived and real place if value?
Have we mentioned how valued you and your business are to us? We prove it with everything we do for you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Foster Strategies.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#BetterTogether
#elevatingautomotivepartnerships
#FiveStarSolutions
From 'Values' to 'Valued'.
One of the core building blocks of our highly regarded, proprietary Client Retention program, 'Radical Retention'.
We methodically integrate a solid base of processes and ideas to secure your company's future.
We work with your teams without disrupting current business needs to amplify present and future outcomes.
❌Churn is costly. Perhaps in more ways than you have considered.
But can a Retention plan make you money?
⭐Yes it can.
Our Foster Strategies proactive and intentional Retention system will not only save you time and money, it increases Revenue and Profits.
Proven automotive leadership, committed to your success.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Five Start solutions for businesses serving Automotive.
#ElevatingAutomotivePartnerships
#RadicalRetention
#PremierAutomotiveConsulting
#Strategy #Training #Workshops #Leadership #Churn
#BeTheDisruption
It's September!
Two-thirds of one of the most challenging years in recent history are behind us. Congratulations if you're still standing.
Standing doesn't have to mean everything is perfect, or even okay, for that matter.
It means you're still here. Busy or not. Working or not.
It means you can still take stock of the value you bring to others and the value missing still in the midst of the chaos.
Some who have short-term 'wins' don't have long-term plans to repeat them.
You can set yourself apart starting today by expanding your vision, taking a clear assessment of the state of affairs and acting on what you see.
Bring your best into the last 4 months of 2020 and power straight into '21, a year too many are blindly assuming will be different.
Don't be that person. Be ready. Be better than ever!
It's September. My favorite month. If you're still standing, let's lace up and run the next leg, together!
#BetterTogetherIn2020
#SeptemberIsMyMonth
#ReadyForAnything
#Automotive #consulting #dealership #elevatingautomotiveperformance #leadership #leadershipinaction
Foster Strategies created our proprietary 'Bi-Directional Partnership Agreements' for our Dealer and Vendor clients.
When you invest into new solutions, you have hopes for its success.
When you sell your services, software or products you feel the same.
But over and over again, we receive similar calls from both parties.
👉It's not working.
👉It's not worth the money.
💲We're not seeing the ROI.
👉They're not reading the results right.
👉They are not dedicating people/time to use our solution.
All of this.
The 'Blame Game' is one where everyone ultimately loses, by design.
Our experience on both sides of this equation led us to create partnerships that work.
By design.
We improve partnerships, from the beginning, throughout the entire life-cycle.
It's cost you enough time, money and resources already.
Vendors and Dealers alike can reach out now, right now, and right this ship.
The ultimate ROI is available for you with our unique, proven insights with 'Elevating Automotive Partnerships'.
More than a program, it's an fresh approach built to create sustainable success for all players.
Move forward powerfully and profitably with stronger, successful partnerships, starting here.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Five Star Solutions for Partnership Success.
#BetterTogether
The most exciting part of my work? Thanks for asking. I'm glad to share.⭐
It is absolutely, unequivocally the sheer pleasure of watching others achieve what they thought was impossible. 🥇🥇🥇
I help leaders see and reach their fullest potential, allowing them to help their companies, their employees and their clients all achieve new heights.
Results matter. I'm competitive with you to hit your objectives and help you shape a predictable, successful future.
Your leaders need new insights, fresh perspectives, innovative thinking to give them a lift in their growth and development.
Once we strengthen the leadership team, they can better serve their subsequent teams.
Whether you are the owner or CEO, you know how important this is. You need a reliable, capable, thoughtful and enthusiastic partner to call.
I'm here. We're here. Simply message me here to get started. You'll be surprised how accessible, affordable and smooth working with us can be.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Five Star Solutions for Leadership in Automotive.
Proudly serving Dealership Groups + Vendors serving in Automotive and beyond.❤
#Automotive #Consulting #Strategy #Suppliers #RetailDealerships #IndependentDealers #StateAssociation #DigitalMarketing #SAAS #LeadershipDevelopment #ClientRetention #Training
Opinion Piece for a Friday: CarMax now experiencing threats from multiple fronts, not the least of which is Carvana.
As Dealers become more proficient at expanding their position in Pre-Owned and multiple players including Sonic and AN continue their growth, the playbook they are running might need a touch up.
I drove by a #CarMax recently, shortly after passing a few franchise dealerships, plus a #Carvana location on South Blvd. My gut reaction: the building, their mere presence, looked tired and dated. The windowless building with its blue/yellow block letter badging on their brick and mortar appear more like Best Buy or an Auto Parts store. Cold. Tired. Unappealing. Dated.
Perhaps it's time for a brand refresh.
Yes, these are merely my 'opinions'. But as an industry leader, a female business owner and car-purchaser/adviser, this rolled up into a negative impression, regardless of their claim of ease.
Is this message fading in impact now with other solutions are on the table?
Is it really 'easy'?
It doesn't 'feel' like it.
My thoughts culminated after today's #WSJ article comparing CarMax and Carvana.
Selling the sizzle, not the steak still has merit.
However profitable/unprofitable it may be at the moment.
Your thoughts are welcome.
Foster Strategies.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
How do you choose your next move?
Here is a quick exercise for my Dealership friends:
You're a GM, GSM or Fixed Operations Director who has taken their career seriously. You have stayed current, know your business and the industry well, coach others, lead others successfully. And you bring profitable ideas to life. You are proactive and want to make a difference. You have great relationships with your OEM and all vendor partners. You're talented!
You are considering a move. It's time to move your career forward.
Here is the hiring landscape within a 30 minute commute.
👉 A large group in the Automotive Top 25- 50+ stores.
👉A mid-sized group with 10-12 locations.
👉A local operation with 1-4 rooftops.
In addition to this, what questions do you ask Dealer Principals/Owner when you consider putting your time in their hands?
❓
What else is important to you?
Who has the advantage/disadvantage?
What are your chief concerns?
How important are:
Employee Culture, Dealership Reputation, Compensation/Benefits for you and the teams you'll lead?
When my phone rings with Dealerships or Dealer personnel, I hear it all!
Let's hear from you today.
#CareerOpportunities
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Five Star Solutions for Automotive.
We know the questions...and the answers in Automotive.
Curriculum Vitae: 'A course of life'.
Let's resume talking about Resumes. The original words for this important document are Curriculum Vitae.
Latin translation: 'A course of life'.
What a powerful statement and opportunity.
You have a great career rolling and you're ready for a terrific new opportunity.
Yet you invest little or no or time or money on your #CV, your Curriculum Vitae, your Resume. Not any longer.
Your suitors or those you are pursuing need all possible confidence in you, your achievements, the paths you are going to cut in your new role.
Yet most of us have given little regard to the state of affairs of our 'Course of life' and it shows.
We are now proud to announce a tremendous partnership with a leading resource to provide our clients and colleagues easy, reliable access to outstanding CVs and Resumes.
We work hard to connect all of you for career opportunities, but sometimes, this one or two page document would make all the difference.
Contact me via PM if you're ready to have a CV that opens doors.
It is your 'course of life' after all.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Five Star Solutions for Today's Busiest Professionals.
Foster Strategies Secret of the Day: Your resume is aging you. You look tired, uninspiring, unwilling to adapt.
You can take 10-20 years of fatigued writing off of your aged resume and infuse your Curriculum Vitae with a feeling of vitality that comes through the screen.
Your energy, accomplishments and abilities to deliver results hiring managers are seeking will attract more and better offers with a CV facelift.
Don't let the daunting task keep you from putting your best face forward any longer.
Reach out and work with professionals specializing in placement, career moves, resumes and much more.
Invest a little, make a lot more.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Five Star Solutions for Your Career.
On maximizing your time and spend.
Use it or...? I have bought a few more work tools recently and I'm practicing what I teach today. There are a few great solutions I'm not getting full value from- and this is squarely on me. What tools have you purchased to help you run your business more effectively and efficiently?
Here are some Foster Strategies tips on maximizing your time and spend:
⭐When you sign up for any new product, make an appointment for yourself/your team to learn the basics.
⭐Set another for a few weeks later to start working on mastery.
⭐Share, share, share what you learned with others.
⭐What did you discover to help you even further?
⭐Who is using most effectively around you?
⭐What else can you find- keep going!
⭐Ask more and better questions in person or online in your quest to gain more from your time and investment.
Most #Tech or #SaaS solutions have a wide array of tutorials online.
Many times, I've found the best videos are from independent, real users.
I need to take full advantage of what I purchase and so do you!
Don't get upset with your #vendors or providers for something we must hold ourselves accountable first once we say 'YES'. Not knowing is on us at that point.
#SmartSolutions
#DoTheWork
#ElevatingPerformance
#LeadershipMatters
#BetterTogether
'Elevating Automotive Partnerships and Performance'
We help Dealers and Vendors alike ensure everyone is receiving and taking advantage of all your products and services offer.
That's why we call it
⭐'Elevating Automotive Partnerships and Performance'⭐
When we all do our part, we all can and will win.
We create stronger relationships that benefit all parties.
⭐Are you ready for more of this and less contention and confusion?
What do you need to do today to make sure you are doing your part to make your relationships work for you?
⭐Don't spend more, learn more.
Reach out today and we'll discuss how we support people just like you and your company.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Five Star Solutions for Successful Partnerships in Automotive.
#BetterTogether
#ElevatingAutomotivePartnerships
#ElevatingAutomotivePerformance
#LeadershipMatters
#OneVisionOneGoal
The best Rewards program?
When I started traveling for work, I asked the person I reported to for her best travel advice.
"Get status with your major providers. Choose one business for each category and stick with it. Being a little special in a lot of places will never replace being very special in a few."
She was right.
And you're welcome, #AA, #Marriott and #NationalCar!
I'm still grateful. I followed her words and it paid off, making my life on the road more rewarding. From life-changing trips on Points/Miles to keeping my head above water on difficult travel days.
But when it comes to making a difference directly to people's lives, I find the completely opposite theory is best.
It's not for everyone.
But I'm agile in my giving. Light on my feet and quick to see a need and address it.
Many gifts are small. But even those acts open my eyes to new organizations and people.There is so much that needs to be done.
So I sprinkle my dollars and hours around!
You'll see smiles, learn about new needs, people and organizations and most of all, yourself.
Sprinkle what you have liberally and sprinkle it often.
The ultimate status in this game is a full heart.
No fancy early boarding, no cushy seats, no suites.
Only more love.
The ultimate 'status' and rewards program.
On Communication Skills: Clarity
Communication skills are taken for granted. Not just with people, but with businesses. Can you think of any recent disconnects in your world?
There are many facets required as we think about making forward strides with communication.
For today, let's think about the word Clarity.
A 'Conversation' alone does not constitute Clarity. We must consider first our Objectives, our Content, the Audience and be ready to Measure what happens next.
Very often when I'm working with organizations and teams of all sizes, I simply start by an exercise focusing on Clarity to set the stage for growth.
Here is how applying and ensuring Clarity begins:
👉Be very clear yourself on what you need to accomplish.
👉What is the best way to say it?
👉WHO should deliver the message?
👉Who is in our audience?
👉How may they receive this? (examine all possibilities)
👉What will we measure to improve this and future efforts?
You create greater results in Communication by consciously committing to leading with Clarity.
For more help virtually or in-person, contact me directly.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Five Star Solutions for Communication and Clarity.
Legit introspective moment: Are you a Creator or a Reactor?
This isn't a right or wrong scenario.
But is about knowing who you are and knowing who you meant to be.
Don't be a passive Actor in your own life either way. Know and choose. There are no victims.
You're creating or you're reacting.
You're leading or you're following.
You're planning, navigating the course or you're along for the ride.
Know it and own it. Know yourself and make conscious choices.
Routine can swallow you up and pull you down a stream you never intended to swim in...or you can choose this stream intentionally with plans and purpose.
Steering the boat or along for the beautiful ride? Either way, make sure it's a choice.
Creator or Reactor?
If you needed the reminder today, now you have it.
Foster Strategies.
We think, we listen, we care...and then we help with solutions to make an impact.
#MakingADifference
#BetterTogether
#LeadershipMatters
Matt Higgins and Lewis Howes, Thank you for the extra inspiration this past weekend.
"Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail."
We've all heard this wise axiom:
"Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail."
I'm taking a close look at this one, toying with it and adding my own touch. It might even be painful for some of us.
What is the real story here?
Read this to yourself, and out loud.
"Failing to Plan Shows Failing to Care."
Gasp. This literally took me aback.
Those 7 words took on a new power.
"Failing. To. Plan. Shows. Failing. To. Care."
Consciously or unconsciously, the message feels the same.
Failing who?
Ourselves, others?
Of course we care...but 'Care' like most everything, is in the perspective of the recipient.
Is it possible that our small oversights amounted to a feeling that we weren't invested...that the person or project didn't...matter?!
I'm going to set this one out there for you to consider now.
Thoughts? You know me, there is a pot of gold full of positivity, but let's do the work to get there first.
Now, I would love to see take a moment, reflect and finish this line:
'Failing to Plan---___________'
#MakingADifference
#LeadershipMatters
#FosterStrategies
#ThinkBeforeYouLeap
#BetterTogether
Foster Strategies on Forecasting.
November. 30 days. Or is it?
As we meet with most of our clients for the first time we realize quickly that their #forecasting is limited to year over year projections and possibly, just possibly the amount of days in the month.
Let's take a closer look at November.
Start with Thanksgiving.
Far too many businesses see it as a one day holiday.
But is it?
We all know better than this based on our own personal preferences and schedules.
Conduct an in-depth analysis on the impact of your people, your customers, your sales, hour to hour throughout the entire 7 days surrounding Thanksgiving.
You do the work. Share it with me later.
Next up, Hunting Season.
Doesn't matter whether you like it or not or hunt or not.
Most businesses are impacted by the fluctuation in personnel, PTO plus decreased productivity due to extra conversations during this period.
Both items have been in play for as long as we've been in business. Yet rarely are these and other key metrics considered when setting budgets, staffing and predicting outcomes.
This contributes to why we still have an EKG in our month to month results.
"We had a tough month."
Or was there info available to predict more accurately and adjust?
November.
Strategy in Forecasting.
We help.
Introducing 'PartnershipsMatter'
For those of you serving in automotive or any industry: How do your prospects and clients know how you plan to support them throughout their lifecycle as your client?
Introducing 'PartnershipsMatter' another winning and proven solution from Foster Strategies Group.
Once your own team has alignment with our Partnership Principles, the market and your customers will have greater confidence in your service and ongoing commitment to your clients' success.
It's not as easy as it looks, but we make it as straightforward and streamlined as possible.
Foster Strategies. We cut off challenges with your clients before they can even begin.
Observing, anticipating, solving and succeeding.
We care about your outcomes and we prove it.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#PartnershipsMatter: Our formula for long-term success.
To schedule your PartnershipsMatter workshop or online sessions, call or PM today.
info@fosterstrategiesgroup.com
https://lnkd.in/drWghYE
Text 'Partner' to 269.217.0414
#Consulting #LeadershipDevelopment #Automotive #Training #Education #ClientStrategy #SalesSuccess
Automotive Sales and BDC Trainers: Do you wish your dealers received even more benefit from working with you?
Do you wish your dealers received even more benefit from working with you? Here are a few things most of you are still seeing. Let's review what's happening and what's at risk.
Have you ever:
✔Known there are so many ways your dealers can win, so many added sales opportunities, yet the current system isn't showing results to reflect your complete value story?
✔Worked with and trained BDC and Sales people you were confident would be terrific, yet on your next visit learned they had left the organization?
✔Seen the 'lift' your dealers are getting is often temporary and know there has to be a better way to ensure that you and your dealers are both always succeeding?
✔Had a #Dealer or #GM call you and cancel your services as they are going with a different training partner?
✔Witnessed a good store continue to have limited success while their competition was doing better?
We have a solution for every #BDCTraining and #SalesTraining company.
You become invaluable and irreplaceable.
This technology helps dealerships on every point of the spectrum perform better, starting on Day One.
If you're ready to have more confidence in your dealers' outcomes, PM me today.
Foster Strategies.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Proven Automotive Solutions.
#Training #BDC #Consulting
On GOALS.
We help our clients make their goals and objectives materialize.
Many of you have dreamed of traveling to interesting places. Perhaps your dream was to go somewhere off the beaten path. Something more adventurous or exciting.
For many of you, it remains a dream.
Because to make the trip happen you have to plan. There's preparation, research, expense. Details.
Having dreams in the business world isn't much different. We call them goals but they remain dreams and merely smoke until you take action.
Achieving these dreams and goals becomes such a monumentous task that most people settle for whatever happens passively. With a little stretch perhaps, but that's all.
If you have dreams of what your company and your leaders can achieve, talk to us.
We are experts at helping you arrive at your dream destination. Our strategies build in unexpected challenges which always exist. We carve paths to bring you to your goals safely and successfully.
Dream goals and fantastic objectives can be a reality.
You just need the right guide.
Foster Strategies.
We make your impossible dreams, possible.
Let's get to work on your amazing adventure.
#BetterTogether
#WhatIsPossible
#Consulting
#AutomotiveStrategy
#ElevatingAutomotivePartnerships
#ElevatingAutomotivePerformance
On Growth Strategy.
Even as you read this, many think of 'Forecasting', which is merely a segment of a true Growth Strategy.
Here are my 5 tips to set the stage for successful Growth Strategy.
1. Growth Strategy begins with a vision. Without imagination, creativity and even discontent in play, your results will be as cold, hard and flat as the table you've gathered around.
Visions + Visionaries are exciting, inspiring others to follow, stirring their minds on 'What Is Possible'.
2. Successful programs require all leaders to be active participants. Listening, contributing, pushing back, pushing forward together.
3. A cursory assessment of your teams, their performance, headwinds, data + metrics from all units plus industry insights are the starting point.
4. Allow 2x the time you planned to allocate for your first meeting. Pre-schedule 2 additional meetings to generate your viable, actionable Growth Strategy.
4. Everyone agrees on the clear outline of expectations and timelines.
5. Communicate early and often to your organization. Their feedback, insights and participation are all essential to ensure you achieve the goals you set.
Foster Strategies. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We move beyond forecasting to the rewards of a well-planned Growth Strategy.
#LifeBeyondForecasting
#Automotive
