Auto dealers and automakers recently contributed millions of dollars and other resources to help out with Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts. The philanthropy didn’t surprise me, as I’ve seen the industry’s generosity in action throughout the few short years I’ve covered it, including during last year’s East Coast hurricane flooding.

A caring, thoughtful approach to communities where dealers operate, as well as to their clientele, is a hallmark of the business and a wise way to be contributing parts of communities. 

It turns out that the same principle applies on auto retail teams themselves – to not only show the outside public that the auto dealer cares but also stores’ own staffs.

Such a philosophy strikes me as wise, if for no other reason than the culture a business cultivates with its employees will inevitably ripple outside its walls. Respect and kindness leave a trail in their wake like the tire tracks of a passing car on a dirt road.

Helping out following well-publicized natural disasters draws positive publicity with the click of a website donation button, and that’s always a valuable and appreciated move. Contributing to the overall success of employees means a much more gradual and daily process that often unfolds almost imperceptibly. Both are meaningful and can make lasting change for the good in the community and for the dealership.

L.A. Williams of Dealer Synergy points out the importance of applying emotional intelligence at the dealership, a practice he says ultimately increases its bottom line.

Adam Marburger of Ascent Dealer Services says he emphasizes the advantage of pursuing servant leadership in the dealership that prioritizes employees’ growth and well-being, thereby strengthening its customer base and brand.

And Reahard & Associates’ Rick McCormick says dealer teams should, as he puts it, focus on enhancing each other’s lives, as well as customers’. 

All three contribute strong perspectives that point in the same direction: Dealers who care for employees, customers and the communities where they operate create a life-giving cycle that benefits everybody it touches, including them.

I look forward to seeing how that philosophy plays out this year in the industry.

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