Talking Business with Mark and John

In “Talking Automotive with Mark and John” Ep 22, Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair review their first twenty podcasts. They do a summary of Pre Covid and review the nine months of Covid. They dive into detail of what next and where they believe the opportunities will be out to June next year. They talk about the different customer segments and what could impact supply and demand. They provide an in-depth analysis of the need to simplify the business and reduce complexity. They also explore the need to take a long-term view and the need to find ways to continue to reduce overhead cost structures, to make the business resilient to swings in the market. If you liked what you heard subscribe to the show to receive notifications of future shows.



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/talking-business-with-mark-and-john--5696935/support.

In “Talking Automotive with Mark and John” Ep 22, Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair review their first twenty podcasts. They do a summary of Pre Covid and review the nine months of Covid. They dive into detail of what next and where they believe the opportunities will be out to June next year. They talk about the different customer segments and what could impact supply and demand. They provide an in-depth analysis of the need to simplify the business and reduce complexity. They also explore the need to take a long-term view and the need to find ways to continue to reduce overhead cost structures, to make the business resilient to swings in the market. If you liked what you heard subscribe to the show to receive notifications of future shows.

If you would like to get more information on any of the topics reach out to Mark Palavestra or John Sinclair on LinkedIn.

If you would like to get involved with the shows or get more information on different topics feel free to contact us. Production and editing by Ky Sinclair and Harrison Hibbs.

Sponsor: PrixCar Fleet Services https://prixcar.com.au/services/fleet…

Join automotive experts Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair as they speak with Alexander Corne from Motorink Media about the art of storytelling and maximizing social media in the automotive industry. In this episode, Alexander provides insightful tips on developing an effective social media strategy that leverages your company's heritage and technology to drive engagement. He discusses best practices for responding to negative social media and having a "war plan" in place. Delving into the power of influencers, Alexander analyzes how to carefully select and work with influencers to shape your brand image, with clear goals and outcomes in mind. He stresses the importance of authenticity and avoiding "fake news" when cultivating your social media presence. With decades of combined experience, Mark, John, and Alexander explore a wide range of topics relevant for today's automotive digital landscape. Tune in for practical advice on earned media, organic reach, reputation management, and more. Whether you're an established dealership or new start-up, you'll gain actionable tips for success.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/talking-business-with-mark-and-john--5696935/support.

In “Talking Automotive with Mark and John” Ep 21, Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair talk to Alexander Corne from Motorink Media. Alexander is an Automotive and Transport Industry Public Relations and Marketing Specialist. Alexander shares with us the art of storytelling and how to maximise your PR and benefit from earned PR marketing activities.

Alexander looks at the big picture and how to develop a PR strategy using aspects such as heritage and technology to drive engagement. He discusses the difficulties of negative PR and how to develop and practice a War Plan and the need to test structures in preparation for a negative PR event.

He provides an in-depth analysis of Social Media and how a business can influence its public image without the traditional media filter. He goes into depth on influencers and the need for careful analysis and the need to have a clear plan and anticipated outcomes of using an influencer.

He wraps up with a discussion on fake news and the need to genuine and authentic in any PR activities.

If you liked what you heard subscribe to the show to receive notifications of future shows. If you would like to get more information on any of the topics reach out to Mark Palavestra or John Sinclair on LinkedIn. If you would like to get involved with the shows or get more information on different topics feel free to contact us.

For more information on Alexander Corne and the services he provides:

https://au.linkedin.com/in/alexandercorne

Production and editing by Ky Sinclair.

Sponsor: PrixCar Fleet Services

https://prixcar.com.au/services/fleet-services/

We sit down with Phillip Mance, a veteran in the automotive industry, to discuss what it takes to successfully run a car dealership today. Phillip shares his insights into navigating the challenges of operating a dealership in the new normal. Phillip stresses the importance of attracting and retaining top talent, especially in leadership and management roles. He discusses the difficulties of finding skilled employees and keeping them engaged. According to Phillip, focusing on customer loyalty and satisfaction is key. By providing an exceptional customer experience, dealerships can build a base of repeat and referral customers. Developing a strong brand and credibility within the community is essential. Phillip analyzes effective retail marketing strategies, including targeted digital and traditional advertising. He emphasizes that social media and online marketing have become crucial parts of the marketing mix. Phillip also touches on the critical aspects of parts, service, and the used vehicle business. These pillars provide stability and additional revenue streams for dealerships. Overall, Phillip provides valuable insights for navigating the challenges of operating a successful dealership. By focusing on people, customers, marketing, and core business areas, dealerships can thrive even in difficult times. Phillip’s experience and expertise make this a highly informative look at the automotive industry.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/talking-business-with-mark-and-john--5696935/support.

In “Talking Automotive with Mark and John” Ep 20, Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair talk to Phillip Mance, Managing Director of the Alan Mance Motor Group. Phillip shares with us the in and outs of managing a dealership in the new normal. Phillip looks at the big picture and the challenges facing dealerships. He discusses the difficulties of finding and retaining good staff. He talks about finding customers and ways to retain them. He provides an in-depth analysis of how to develop the brand of the dealership and how to build trust and credibility in the community. He goes into depth on what retail campaigns work and which do not. He wraps up with a discussion on parts and service and used vehicles. The core pillars to any dealership and a key to survival. If you liked what you heard subscribe to the show to receive notifications of future shows. If you would like to get more information on any of the topics reach out to Mark Palavestra or John Sinclair on LinkedIn. If you would like to get involved with the shows or get more information on different topics feel free to contact us. For more information on the Alan Mance Motor Group and the services they provide: www.alanmancemotors.com.au Production and editing by Ky Sinclair. Sponsor: PrixCar Fleet Services https://prixcar.com.au/services/fleet…

We're joined today by Steve Zanlunghi of Absolute Results to discuss how dealerships can mine the gold in their customer databases and build lasting loyalty. Steve has years of experience running private VIP sales events and shares his insights on what makes them successful. A key takeaway is that events should be an integral part of a dealer's marketing strategy, not just one-off promotions. Steve explains how to leverage your database to target customers who are in-market to buy and prime them for an event with tailored messaging. This creates an audience excited to attend and buy. He details the differences between dealer-run events versus having a company like Absolute Results handle it. Their expertise in organizing and promoting events generates higher turnout and sales. But regardless of who runs it, Steve stresses the importance of follow-up and nurturing attendees after the event to build loyalty. Valuable insights are shared on understanding buyer behavior between brands and integrating the sales team seamlessly into the event. Steve emphasizes that while driving sales is crucial, ensuring guests have an enjoyable experience is equally vital. This mix of commerce and entertainment is at the heart of any thriving private sale. The knowledge Steve imparts equips dealers with strategies to maximize their database's value and turn events into a sustainable sales channel. His blend of marketing savvy and human insights makes this a must-listen for dealers and managers aiming to grow their business.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/talking-business-with-mark-and-john--5696935/support.

In Talking Automotive with Mark and John Ep 19, Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair talk to Steve Zanlunghi Director of Operations, Asia Pacific, from Absolute Results about mining the gold in your database.

Steve shares the in’s and outs of what is necessary to ensure a successful private VIP customer sale event at a dealership. Sales events are an essential part to a dealers marketing and advertising arsenal. A definite listen for any DP or Sales Manager. He provides an in-depth analysis of private sale dealer VIP events and how it all works. He explores the differences between an Absolute Results event and a dealer led promotion. He details the importance of driving and maintaining the database and the value that this can bring. He talks about buyer behaviour and vehicle sales cycles between brands. He discusses the human behaviour side and the importance to work with the sales team to ensure it is an interesting and fun event.

If you liked what you heard subscribe to the show to receive notifications of future shows. If you would like to get more information on any of the topics reach out to Mark Palavestra or John Sinclair on LinkedIn. If you would like to get involved with the shows or get more information on different topics feel free to contact us.

For more information on Absolute Results and the services they provide: https://www.absoluteresults.com/au-en/

Production and editing by Ky Sinclair.

Sponsor: PrixCar Fleet Services https://prixcar.com.au/services/fleet…

Join Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair in Talking Automotive Ep 18 as they speak with Desmond Hang, CEO and Founder of carbar, to debunk the myths around car subscription. Desmond provides an in-depth analysis of how car subscription works and how it differs from a financial lease. He explores the key differences between car share and car subscription, explaining where each model fits in the automotive market. He shares insights into evolving buyer behaviour and developing trends towards car subscription, reflecting a shift from ownership to usership. Car subscription takes the customer experience to the next level by removing the risks and inflexibilities of car ownership. It also opens up easier access to mobility for demographics previously excluded from the market. The discussion covers the opportunities for dealers and OEMs within the car subscription model. Turning over the vehicle fleet more quickly provides advantages in terms of improving safety and reducing emissions.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/talking-business-with-mark-and-john--5696935/support.

In Talking Automotive with Mark and John Ep 18, Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair talk to Desmond Hang CEO and Founder of carbar. Desmond debunks the myths around car subscription. Desmond provides an in-depth analysis of car subscription and how it all works. He explores the differences between a financial lease and car subscription. He explains the differences between car share and car subscription and where each fits in the market. He talks about buyer behaviour and the developing trends of car subscription. How car subscription is moving from ownership to usership and it takes the customer experience of a mobility to the next level. He shares how car subscription takes out all the risk of mobility and the flexibility that is offered. He also delves into how car subscription provides easier access for mobility for sectors who may have been previously held out of the market for longer. He shares what opportunities there are for dealers and OEM’s with car subscription. He discusses the advantages of turning over the vehicle parc quicker in terms of safety and emissions reduction. If you liked what you heard subscribe to the show to receive notifications of future shows. If you would like to get more information on any of the topics reach out to Mark Palavestra or John Sinclair on LinkedIn. If you would like to get involved with the shows or get more information on different topics feel free to contact us. For more information on carbar and the services they provide: https://www.carbar.com.au/ Production and editing by Ky Sinclair. Sponsor: PrixCar Fleet Services https://prixcar.com.au/services/fleet…