Are you considering a career as a car salesman? Or maybe you're just curious about the earning potential of this profession? Either way, you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we'll explore the question: what do car salesmen make hourly?
As with any job, there are pros and cons to working as a car salesman. On the one hand, you have the potential to earn a good income if you're successful at selling cars. On the other hand, there can be long hours, high stress, and a lot of competition.
So, what can you expect to earn as a car salesman? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for retail salespersons, which includes car salesmen, is $12.14. However, this can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, and the dealership you work for.
My Personal Experience
When I worked as a car salesman, I started out earning minimum wage plus commission. However, as I gained experience and built up a track record of successful sales, my hourly wage increased significantly. At my peak, I was earning around $30 per hour.
Factors That Affect Earnings
As mentioned, there are several factors that can impact how much a car salesman earns per hour. One of the biggest factors is experience. Newer salespeople may start out earning minimum wage or close to it, while those with years of experience and a proven track record of successful sales can earn much more.
Location is also a factor. Car salesmen in urban areas with a high cost of living may earn more than those in rural areas with a lower cost of living. Additionally, the dealership you work for can impact your earnings. High-end dealerships typically pay more than budget dealerships.
Sales Performance
Perhaps the biggest factor that determines a car salesman's hourly wage is their sales performance. Those who are successful at selling cars can earn significant commissions on top of their base pay. On the other hand, those who struggle to sell cars may earn only minimum wage or close to it. It's a highly competitive industry, and those who are able to consistently close deals are the ones who will earn the most.
Negotiation Skills
Another important factor in a car salesman's earning potential is their negotiation skills. The ability to close a deal and negotiate a favorable price for both the customer and the dealership is crucial. Car salesmen who are skilled negotiators can often earn more in commission than those who struggle in this area.
Conclusion of What Do Car Salesmen Make Hourly
So, what do car salesmen make hourly? The answer is, it depends. Earnings can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including experience, location, the dealership you work for, and most importantly, your sales performance and negotiation skills. If you're considering a career as a car salesman, keep in mind that it can be a highly rewarding but also a highly competitive profession.
Question and Answer
Q: Can car salesmen earn more than the median hourly wage?
A: Yes, car salesmen who are successful at selling cars can earn much more than the median hourly wage. This can include significant commissions on top of their base pay.
Q: Is experience important for car salesmen?
A: Yes, experience is a key factor in a car salesman's earning potential. Those with years of experience and a proven track record of successful sales can earn significantly more than those who are just starting out.
Q: Are negotiation skills important for car salesmen?
A: Yes, negotiation skills are crucial for a car salesman's earning potential. The ability to negotiate a favorable price for both the customer and the dealership can result in higher commissions and thus, higher earnings.
Q: What factors can impact a car salesman's earnings?
A: Several factors can impact how much a car salesman earns per hour, including experience, location, the dealership you work for, and most importantly, your sales performance and negotiation skills.
