CDK Unveils Inaugural Dealership Workplace Study

The automotive retail industry is known for long-held stereotypes about its workers and roles. To say it’s a misunderstood industry is an understatement at best. Nearly 2 million people were employed in the motor vehicle industry over the last 18 years, contributing to this multitrillion-dollar sector’s success, and dealerships are a big part of it.

So, we surveyed 300 current dealership employees in the 2024 CDK Dealership Workplace Study to understand what level of job satisfaction and enthusiasm they’re experiencing, what motivates them, and what would make them leave. We also talked to 100 former dealership employees for their take on why they left the industry.

There are surefire positive takeaways for store leadership, including a job satisfaction rate far higher than the national average. But there are also some signs of alarm around the types of benefits and pay that are missing the mark.

The study digs into the likely factors such as benefits and compensation as well as other workplace issues related to expanding skills; diversity, equity and inclusion; and leadership impact, to name a few. It also uncovers which industries former auto retail employees transitioned to when they opted to leave the car lot for good.

We share four key takeaways that address ways dealer leaders can shore up a loyal and long-term staff in order to build a successful and profitable business to meet customer needs and expectations that are top of mind for dealer owners everywhere right now.

Download the 2024 Dealership Workplace Study