Wednesday, December 15, 2010
One of the most difficult tasks mankind has to endure is the act of purchasing a vehicle.
When I think deeply about buying a car I can not help but realize this is the most expensive purchase I
will make in my lifetime. How? Think of it as a cumulative item with parasites.
You are not only purchasing a car but also, insurance, extended warrantees, sales and property taxes, DMV
services, and down the road: maintenance fees, tires, parts, oil changes, gas, tolls, cleaning devices
and chemicals, winter floor mats, etc?you get the picture.
Now, multiply this event time the number of vehicles you will buy in a lifetime.
That is what makes this task so difficult and unfortunately necessary.
So here I am, once again trying to make this event as pleasant as possible knowing what to expect the
moment I enter a dealership. I’m ready to spar with another team of salivating sales reps, financial
advisors, CEO’s, janitors and anyone else they can recruit to empty my pockets. They already know I’m in
a vulnerable and emotional state. The velociraptor spot their quarry and come in for the kill. At least
that is what I thought. But, this time was different, very different for the first time in my life and
I’m 65.
As I past through the doors of Herb Chambers I felt five years old again entering my first ice cream
store, confronted by a medley of smells, colors, and textures that overwhelmed me.
Then I’m greeted by the friendly ice cream attendant, “Johnny” willing to do anything to make my first
visit to an ice cream store one of the best experiences of my childhood.
Well, fast forward to November 30, 2010. I, with my wife and son enter the doors of Herb Chambers
Infiniti Dealership wearing my best defensive posture because I know what I’m about to encounter. A
greeter introduces us to Jess, a thorough and knowledgeable executive who immediately assigns us to a
sale rep. A hand reaches out and says’ “hello I’m Anthony Carlino, and I am hear to make your visit with
us as pleasant as possible”.
Anthony could not have been more complete, affable and entertaining as he listened to our every need and
made for our first hassle free car purchase. He also delivered our vehicle to CT with a dozen roses on
the front seat for my wife knowing the car was for her. What a touch!
Anthony is my 20th century “Johnny”.
All best wishes,
William