A lot of times, we focus on how to fix things when it feels like your department is imploding around you. That’s often because running your service department is similar to riding on the edge of a knife blade. One slight variation to the left or right and you’re going to teeter off. But sometimes, things are truly moving in the right direction and there are no major fires to put out.

If you find yourself in a sweet spot, that’s awesome! Enjoy it while it lasts. Because everyone knows that it won’t be this way forever, no matter how good of a manager or leader you might be. It’s in these smooth times that you can work on another important facet: you.

Are You Well Equipped as a Leader?

If you feel like you have all the skills you need to all the problems you’ll encounter as a manager or a leader, you’re probably pulling the wool over your own eyes. There is always – always – room for improvement, and if your staff and processes are working well right now, you can make improvements in you.

Read a book

You could fill a dozen bookshelves with material from gurus and trainers from around the world, but it’s hard to find time to read them. Read a chapter a day in a leadership book to hone your skills.

Many of the books have the same topics, and that’s hard to avoid. You’ll connect better with some authors than others. Even if it feels like it’s something you already know, you might be able to apply it in a different way.

Most importantly, you need to keep honing your skills, and you can do that by always learning and applying the knowledge.

Train your understudy

In the military, you learn the position above yours and train the person below you for your role. It ensures a seamless transition in the chain of command should the need arise. When times are good at your store, you can develop the person below you into a leader who can take your place when the time comes. Don’t be intimidated by the thought that you’re training your replacement. The very fact that you take the time to do so helps solidify your value in the store.

Learn the position above yours

And on the other side of the coin, take the opportunity to shadow your superior. Begin to gain knowledge for your future, assuming you want to continue moving up the ladder in your career. Again, this shows initiative and drive, of which YOUR leadership takes notice.

Attend conferences

DSES was just last week, and it’s the perfect opportunity to improve yourself. Whether you’re a sales manager, general manager, parts manager, service manager, or a senior service advisor or salesperson, there’s fantastic information and inspiration given from the sessions and keynote speakers.

Some of the expenses may end up being out of pocket if your dealership doesn’t have the budget for it. It’s an incredible time and a valuable experience; think of it as an investment in your future.

If the seas are calm right now, know that the storms are coming. Take the opportunity to finetune your own leadership skills so you can manage the rough seas in the not-too-distant future.