One of keys to developing relationships and steering them towards constructive outcomes for you or the role you serve is identifying the agenda of the party or parties involved. So few of us can equate high performance to the sum of our own efforts or actions. I have always relied, to some degree, on others to complete my jobs. I have found it wise to learn as quickly as possible what their agenda is and how they plan on making it happen.
I am a student of this game and probably will be for the rest of my life. As a student, I am constantly learning new ways to peel back the layers and approach a situation with a myriad of possibilities, so not to box myself out.
Up until recently, I have always avoided using others to get my dirty work done. I feel more comfortable rolling up my sleeves and getting that done myself. Times have changed and for me I am studying the art of office warfare to see if it advances my chances of success. Not being an open book, not considering the other parties needs, actively downplaying their strength position and getting them to make concessions has tangible payoffs. I just never really made that my foucs.
I am adapting. In my usual role back in Tampa and on this recent assignment here at this dealership in Watertown, I am stretching my legs and using these tactics routinely and with little or no consequences. Some of the benefit is less overall work for me, but the other part is tricking others into a perception that what I say and need is what they must work to achieve. Heck, there is no leadership here at this dealer... so I might as well execute the function for the benefit of all parties involved.
Small Example: I am responsible for each and every unit on the lot. Above and beyond the new inventory, I keep track of lease turn ins, repo/voluntary surrenders, trade inventory not yet processed for auction, and used vehicles. I am also seizing any units Dealmaker that mistakenly brings here... they only way they get it back is to prove ownership. I love that part of the job. Nice little power trip to see the mice scurry about looking for proof of ownership. Well, where the inventory sits is really not Dealmakers problem. That is mine. Lately, I have made it seem like it is their problem and have found a whole bunch of resources to move this crap around. That saves me boat loads of time... and they feel as though they are productive too! Double bonus. Agenda for Dealmaker: Make zero waves for FMCC or on site FMCC staff. Give FMCC everything asked for... do not let anything escalate to the GM.
In the past, I would just take care of it myself. After all, I have more than enough time to do it... means and opportunity... most of all... I could rest easy knowing it was done to my satisfaction. The only thing I can lose with making them do it... total sense it was done to my satisfaction which is completely overrated anyway.
P.S. I'm really bored today. As evidenced in this posting... I have the time to type this crap out.
