SAT #33 - 🏹 Hunting for Dreams

We have pretty impeccable musical tastes over here at ASOTU.

Don’t believe us? Check out our ASOTU Crew Mix featuring all the gems our team is rocking to on the reg.

You won’t be disappointed. 😎

Keep Pushing Back
-Paul, Kyle, Chris & Kristi

INDUSTRY HIGHLIGHT

Dayna Kleve: Master Communicator and Tenacious Dream Hunter

Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Dayna! We’d love to start with who you are, where you work, and how you got into the industry.

I'm Dayna Kleve, and I work for Walser Automotive Group in Minneapolis, Minnesota. My path into this industry was rather unconventional. A lot of people say, “I never thought I'd work in automotive,” and I'm definitely one of those people.

I originally applied for a Social Media position at Walser. Instead, they offered me a position in Reputation Management, handling Google and Yelp reviews and responses. It was actually a really good place for me because writing is one of my passions. It was a great way for me to meet General Managers and liaise with them. If there was an issue with a customer, I was really able to forge those relationships and a deeper understanding of what wasn’t working or what the struggles were. I later transitioned to social media but ultimately found my real fit in corporate communications.

We just have to ask this as a follow to one part of your story — what was the most common customer complaint you noticed?

Transparency was probably the biggest issue. Customers felt they weren't told the full truth, a perception that's unfortunately persisted in the industry. When it comes to your own money in your own wallet, your expectations are really high. Any hint of dishonesty is a problem.

What would you consider your formal title now?

My specific title is Director of Diversity, Engagement, and Foundation. Some more common titles these days are Corporate Social Responsibility or Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance, but I really wanted a title that reflected in plain speech what it means.

I also support our Employee Resource Groups, like Women of Walser, Drive with Pride, and the Asian Hmong Alliance. These groups are all employee-led, employee-driven, and fully funded with their own budgets. We’re really serious about putting our money where our mouth is, and walking the walk when it comes to engaging with others.

It’s really amazing that you get to help facilitate and highlight the special skills and passions of the talented people under your rooftops.

My boss Sherry Schultz has a saying that has stuck with me: “I know myself, I love myself, I like my job.” If you can't say that, you’ve got yourself a problem. Happy people do good work, and I’m interested in how we can better understand each other.

What do you think it takes to be a successful communicator and how do you manage communication in such a multifaceted environment?

Communication can be challenging in such a diverse workforce, but we use various methods — from posters to intranet to mailers —to reach people where they are. Not everyone checks email regularly, or has time to sit down and read a lengthy PDF, so being creative with how we connect with employees is crucial.

What might you share with newcomers in the industry? How do you help dispel some of their preconceived notions about dealerships?

I think auto is a place for anyone and it is what you make of it. You don't have to be the CEO to find success, and you don't have to pigeonhole yourself into one thing. The number of people I've seen who have leapfrogged to different roles is incredible. It's not a ladder, it's a lattice.

There's another quote that I’ve loved forever: “I don't chase my dreams, I hunt them down and beat them into submission.” I feel that's kind of how I am. You are the only person who's in control of your career. To think you have any less of an opportunity for a long, satisfying career in automotive (or wherever), is just a disservice to yourself.

It has been a pleasure chatting with you, Danya, and thank you again for all that you do!

👉 Check out the full interview with Dayna on our website here! 👀

CONTENT RECAP

The Week in Review

EMAIL RECAP

• Ira Toyota of Danvers grants birthday wishes to children in need. 🎁

• Shopping trends for savvy dealers. 🛒

• Fox Auto Team keeps a promise. 🦊

PODCAST

Too Soon?

On yesterday’s episode of the Automotive Troublemaker, Paul Daly and our pal Glenn Lundy debate the age-old question: When is it too early to start talking about Pumpkin Spice Lattes? 🎃☕️

Check out their spicey takes here! 👈

🎙️🎧 Listen and subscribe on Apple, YouTube, and Spotify. 🎧🎙️

WORD ON THE STREET

SOMETHING FUN

I Spy in the Night Sky

Get ready for a stellar spectacle as everyone’s favorite ringed planet, Saturn takes center stage in our night sky during its annual opposition tonight. 🌌

Opposition is the celestial alignment where Saturn, Earth, and the Sun form a straight line with Earth in the middle. This positioning allows the sun's rays to fully illuminate Saturn and will provide a striking sight for viewers. 🔭

Saturn will dazzle the eastern sky as the sun sets in the west. To catch this cosmic performance, watch for the majestic planet’s rising around sunset this evening and setting by dawn on the 27th. 🪐