BEST DEALERSHIPS TO WORK FOR IN CANADA

Location: Oakville, Ont.

Dealer principal: Jay Lockwood

Number of employees: 30

2017 new-vehicle sales: 466, up 36.6%

2017 used-vehicle sales: 550, up 18.7%

General Manager Michael DeFreitas on staff diversification and attracting women to the workplace: Our dealership blends in well with our community's demographics. Many employees speak languages, like Portuguese, Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, Cantonese, French and Tagalog. The automotive business has a stigma of being a store full of male employees; it would be very intimidating for some women if this was still the case. We have a "blueprint for success," which includes providing a great work atmosphere. We've never had issues attracting female employees since we have a very comfortable and friendly work atmosphere. About 30 per cent of our staff are female.

DeFreitas on unusual methods developed to reward and show employees they are valued: We have always had great bonuses to reward employees financially, however nothing goes further than recognition. Small things like gift cards saying, "Great Job" or taking your employees out for a team dinner for a job well done have gone a long way for us. You always see an increase in productivity if your employees know you are recognizing their efforts.

DeFreitas on helping employees develop a career path: Part of our strategic blueprint is monthly one-on-one coaching for all staff. We have an open-door policy and staff are encouraged to ask questions about advancement in their career. We also have an in-house coach who works with many employees on developing new skill sets and discussing career goals and ways to achieve them. We offer training to all employees free of charge.

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