LAS VEGAS -- In his speech at the recent NADA Convention, outgoing NADA Chairman Alan Starling called for manufacturers to trust dealers' expertise on customer service rather than turn to more outside consultants. He also remained optimistic that the coming years will be defined by growing respect among dealers, auto manufacturers, government and media.

"As dealers, we need to do what we do best — selling cars and trucks," Starling said. "I'd like all manufacturers to understand selling cars and trucks is an enormously complex business. We are the experts. We work closer to the consumer than anybody. You don't have to hire any more consultants. If you have questions about the buying public, just talk with us. We know what it takes to satisfy customers. It's time to give our business the respect it deserves."

Starling also noted that the industry’s role in the nation’s economic recovery has helped foster better relations with government. “We have a voice that government increasingly listens to and a voice that government increasingly respects,” he said.

Moreover, Starling advised dealers to do their part in improving media coverage for the industry. He acknowledged that the misconduct of a few dealers has resulted in greater media scrutiny for the entire industry. "Unfortunately, some members of the media too often fixate on what’s wrong with our industry," he said. But by promoting vehicle safety, dealers can improve both customer safety and the industry’s public image.

"Every time you promote child safety seats in your stores, every time you set aside a day to show parents how to properly install a booster seat, you are contributing to safety in America. And this story deserves media attention," Starling said.

The key to improving relations with the media, manufacturers and government is respect, he concluded. "Respect is a two-way street. In other words, if you want to get it, you need to give it. I’m proud to say that today's dealers understand the importance of manufacturers, government and the media. We show our respect by communicating. As dealers, we can never stop communicating with any of our constituencies."