The 98 employees at Reliable Imports & RV have access to bonuses that average more than $1,000 a year. The company pays between 31 percent and 50 percent of health insurance premiums for all employees and dependents. Development opportunities come from tuition reimbursement for work-related study, an employee mentoring program and between 40 hours and 60 hours dedicated to formal training for each employee annually. Flex time and adoption assistance also are available. Reliable Imports & RV gives monetary support and donates products and services to nonprofit organizations, and the company also allows employees to support charities during work hours.
Dana Baldwin, human resources manager, answers SBJ’s questions:
How would you describe your company’s culture? Our philosophy is, “The better the people you surround yourself with, the better you’re going to do, for yourself and the consumer.” That philosophy sets the tone for a culture of professionalism, competence and customer service in our dealership. The auto industry is dynamic, and we face variables every day. We (hire) the appropriate team that can embrace and adapt to the changes in the industry and market, and we’re not afraid to celebrate and reward success.
When employees ask for raises, what factors do you weigh? Performance and loyalty are the key factors we look for when considering compensation. To thrive in a team sales and customer service environment, you have to prove your worth through results and dedication.
Beyond financial compensation, what benefits are most important to your staff? On the forefront is health insurance, of course, which is becoming more and more of a concern for many employers and employees. … We have been able to continue to pay a significant portion of the premiums. We offer an excellent 401(k) program and company match … . Another very important benefit we offer, which is more difficult to quantify, is flexibility. As we see the increase in work-life balance challenges many employees face, we have the ability to accommodate a variety of situations and schedules, which has proven to be powerful in employee retention and satisfaction. Providing lunch on Saturdays is a pretty big hit, too.
How does your company support professional development? Our first priority is our dedication to hands-on customer service and training. Manufacturers require specific training certifications prior to representing and selling their vehicles and RVs, as well as continuous training beyond. … Our advisers and technicians are held accountable for quarterly corporate, state, national, safety, manufacturer and Web-based training programs, which are all company-paid. Our professional office, clerical and information technology staffs engage in ongoing development.
What intangible perks make your company a great place to work? It’s simple: The car business is fun; the automotive world is a passion for our employees; and we meet new people each day doing what we love.
Just for Fun If there were no limitations – budget or otherwise – what benefit would you begin offering employees tomorrow? A three-day work week, country club membership and a new car or RV would make the crew happy.[[In-content Ad]]
