Sep 04 2024 33 mins
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Join me as we chat with the remarkable Emily Illingworth, who transitioned from Toyota on the OEM side to owning and managing Toyota of Warsaw. Emily opens up about her journey, sharing the challenges and triumphs of making such a significant career shift. Learn how this move allowed her to achieve her professional ambitions while starting a family and creating a more flexible, family-friendly work environment.
Discover the innovative ways Emily has impacted her dealership and community by prioritizing customer care and engagement. From collaborating with local high schools and trade programs to addressing the industry's talent shortage, her dealership stands out in the competitive automotive market. Emily’s philosophy of treating customers like family and implementing digital tools to build trust has paid off, creating a loyal customer base and a strong community presence. She underscores the importance of transparency and respect, making her dealership a model of excellence.
Emily also shares her insights on overcoming gender-related challenges in the automotive industry. From the loneliness of top leadership positions to the unconscious biases women face, she discusses the resilience required to break into male-centric environments. Emily’s practical advice for women looking to advance their careers encourages listeners to embrace risks and seek mentorship. The conversation expands to the dynamic nature of the car sales industry, the growing influence of technology and sustainability, and the enduring importance of human connection in the buying process. This episode is an empowering testament to making the automotive industry more inclusive and welcoming for women.