How Much Does a Car Salesman Actually Make in California? Or, Let's Talk Benjamins and Beemers
So, you're curious about the life of a car salesman in the Golden State, huh? Well, buckle up, because this ride might be bumpier than you think.
The Myth of the Million-Dollar Man
Let's start with the big one: the stereotype of the car salesman raking in cash like it's going out of style. Yeah, it's a juicy rumor, but let's be real. Not every sales guy is living the high life. Sure, there are those who hit the jackpot, closing deals like it's nobody's business, but they're the exception, not the rule. Most car salesmen in California are just trying to make a decent living, like the rest of us.
The Nitty Gritty of Car Sales Commissions
Now, let's talk about the bread and butter of a car salesman's income: commission. It's basically a percentage of the profit on the car they sell. So, the more expensive the car, the bigger the potential payday, right? Well, yes and no. Dealerships have different commission structures, and some cars have lower profit margins than others. Plus, you've got to factor in the cost of the car, the trade-in value, and all those other pesky numbers that make accountants weep.
Base Salary: Is There Such a Thing?
Believe it or not, some car salesmen actually get a base salary. It's usually pretty low, but it's something. Think of it as a safety net in case the car market takes a nosedive. But let's be honest, most salesmen rely heavily on commission to make ends meet.
The Hidden Costs of the Car Salesman Lifestyle
Okay, so maybe you're thinking, "If they make so much on commission, why are they always so pushy?" Well, there's more to the story than meets the eye. Car salesmen often work long hours, including weekends. They have to deal with all kinds of people, from the sweetest grandma to the most obnoxious know-it-all. And let's not forget about the stress of hitting sales quotas. It's a tough job, people.
How to Become a Car Salesman in California
- How to find a car dealership: Look for dealerships that are hiring in your area. Check their websites or visit them in person.
- How to get a car salesman job: Most dealerships require some sales experience, but it's not always necessary. Be prepared to answer questions about your sales skills and why you want to sell cars.
- How to negotiate your salary: Research the average salary for car salesmen in your area. Be prepared to negotiate your base salary and commission rate.
- How to succeed as a car salesman: Build relationships with customers, be knowledgeable about the cars you sell, and be prepared to work hard.
- How to deal with rejection: Not every customer will buy a car from you. Learn to take rejection in stride and keep moving forward.