There are only 90 days left until the opening of the 2011 SEMA Show. Here are some of the key deadlines and updates for exhibitors preparing for the Show.

Chris Ripper of ATC Truck Covers recently posted the following question in SEMA’s Online Marketing forum: “What advice would you give to a small retailer or other type of business on how to spend a $25,000 annual marketing budget?” We encourage you to join the discussion online here.

Customer service is nothing more than communication. We are not selling just metal, chrome, rubber or plastic. We are selling information and services.

News and updates from SEMA's councils and committees.

In a recent post on the Youth Market forum on SEMA.org regarding whether youth interest in automobiles is declining, Claudia Soto of MSD Ignition said: “I think in addition to the increase in technology and the perception that cars are merely a source of transportation and nothing more within this young generation, the lack of face-to-face communication has created empathy within this young group. There really is no passion, no interests in anything outside the video games, texts, e-mails, social media, etc.”

Few things are more critical to the health of a company than the ability of its salespeople to bring in profitable business, yet too many companies in the automotive specialty-equipment industry consider sales traits and skills last when hiring salespeople. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. This article is focused on helping you hire salespeople for the right reasons—and in the right way.

News and updates from SEMA's councils and committees.