Outfits for a Car Salesman
From Used Car Sales to High-End Dealers
For the past few months I have been on the hunt for a new vehicle and I have seen it all when it comes to attire for Salesmen. From high end to used car, taking my bias as a Men's custom clothing company owner out of it, I feel a positive emotion when I am around someone dressed to impress and a negative emotion when I am around someone looking sloppy.
The stigma when it comes to Salesmen whether it is cars, electronics or furniture is one that needs to be overcome. One very important way to overcome that is by dressing the part.
High-End Dealer
Think James Bond and nothing less. If you are selling a vehicle over $150k, especially higher end like a Ferrari or Lamborghini then you better be dressing the part. The clients you are meeting with are high end and want to deal with a professional, for most of them this is their dreams coming true. I am sure your employer has already had the talk with you but you should be wearing a full suit, tie, and pocket square nothing less.
The suit should be fitted properly and the shirt pressed. When it comes to colors and patterns, feel free to play with it but keep it clean and classy. Pull out your personality without forgetting to be professional.
Essential pieces you will need:
Suits: Navy, charcoal, subtle pattern like windowpane or herringbone.
Shirts: White, light blue, light pink, light grey
Ties: Play with it, even a bow tie would work, but no slim ties (2 inches), or novelty ties (your favorite sports team or looney tunes character).
Pocket Square: Presidential fold in white is classic but play around with it.
New Car Dealer
This is for those at dealerships where the highest ticket is below $125k. Presentation here is key, and ties are not required, you can be a little more casual. Make sure your suits are steamed and dress shirt is pressed. A jacket is not required, especially in the summer but to go that extra mile we recommend wearing one. See our extra tips below to make sure you are put together.
This is a profession where the right presentation will boost your income, guaranteed.
Used Car Dealer
You have the hardest job of them all when it comes to winning over customer trust. "Used Car Salesman", has not been used as a positive term, ever. Fit and presentation for you are key to make a positive first impression. Have everything pressed and fitted properly (see "extra tips" below), and have a decent amount of quality blazers to mix and match between.
A tie can be trying too hard while jeans and a dress shirt plays into the used car salesman stereotype. Putting a little extra effort into what you wear and how you look in the morning (think clean shaven, freshly done hair) will put you miles ahead.
Essential pieces you will need:
Suits: Navy, charcoal, light grey
Blazers: Not too cold or colorful, but have a wide collection
Pants: Navy, charcoal, black, light grey, brown
Dress Shirts: Light pink, light blue, lots of white, pastels
Extra Style Tips
Round toe shoes, not square
Properly fitted, alter your current suits to fit properly
No more than one dress shirt button undone
Never wear shorts, linen or cotton pants are a better option
Match your leathers: Same color belt, shoes and watch
Pink & blue conveys safety and trust
Conclusion
Everything we talk about comes down to fit. If your clothing is too big or too tight, you won't make the impression you are looking for. Custom is your best option at the end of the day. You can choose the fabric and personalization's that fit your body style. You do not need to worry about the cost of alterations (with us at least) or buying something way too big for you.
If you are wanting to work with what you have, find a highly recommended tailor in your area to taper and hem your clothing. They can also take out the shoulder pads which add a lot of bulk.
If you have any questions or would like to use us for your next outfit, please do not hesitate to reach out to us!
Derek Burbidge
Owner/Founder of Cardero Clothing
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