Outfits for a Car Salesman

9/24/2018

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 Bespoke 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 $100k, 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.

Click for Larger Image

Essentials:
Suits: Navy, Charcoal, Windowpane with a color
Shirts: White, Light Blue, Light Pink
Ties: Play with it, even a bow tie but no slim, or novelty ties (Your favorite sports team or brand)
Pocket Square: Presidential Fold White is classic but play around with it

New Car Dealer

This is for those at dealerships where the highest ticket is below $80k. 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.

Check Pattern Blazer

Essentials:
Suit: Navy, Charcoal
Blazer: Check Pattern, Brown, Light Grey
Pants: Charcoal, Electric Blue, Navy
Shirts: Light Pink, Light Blue, White, Stylish Patterns
Ties: Not required
Pocket Square: White, Paisley Pattern

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.

Pastels - Click for Larger Image

Essentials:
Suit: Navy, Charcoal
Blazers: Not too bold or colorful, but have a wide collection
Pants: Navy, Charcoal, Black, Light Grey, Brown
Shirts: Light Pink, Light Blue, Lots of White, Pastels

Extra Tips

Round toe shoes, not square
- See our post on 'First Three Pairs of Shoes'
Properly fitted, alter your current suits to fit properly (Contact us if you need a great tailor)
No more than one dress shirt button undone
Never wear shorts, linen or cotton pants are a better option
- See our post on 'Staying Cool in Your Suit'
Match your leathers: Same color belt, shoes and watch
Pink & blue conveys safety and trust

The Rundown

The investment your customers are putting into their vehicle is one that is substantial. The process can also be stressful. If they have been looking for a while chances are they have come across a few shady Salesmen which means your first impression means the world if you want to earn their trust and make that sale.

If you have any questions on what to purchase next or if a suit can be altered contact us. We can also help you find a great tailor or give you tips on what colors/patterns go together. Our goal is to see you succeed in your career, it is much harder to do that when your presentation isn't all there.

- Derek Burbidge
Owner of Cardero Clothing

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