Anthony Martinez (Army)
Director of Client Services
Rapid Recon
How has your military experience influenced your career in the automotive industry?
I owe most of my success in the automotive and SaaS industry to what I learned from the Army. The military focuses on standardization so that every soldier, marine and sailor can perform the duties of their role with any unit to an overall standard. It’s because of these standards and training everyone on the mission knows who does what, when and how. It’s also because of these standards you can assemble people who have never met but can immediately demonstrate the required professionalism and teamwork to accomplish anything. I used that same foundation during my time leading the recondition department for an automotive group. I made sure that there was an SOP (standard operating procedure) for every position and task so that the mechanics, service writers and detailers always knew what they had to do and who was accountable. The sales staff appreciated the accountability and transparency knowing what was going on with their inventory. I learned that with enough creativity you can turn any process into a smooth assembly line.
What are some of the ways you have seen the industry support veterans?
I’m always excited to see when a company is proud to have veterans on staff. I also appreciate how many programs there are for veterans to purchase vehicles and how many of our customers will find accommodations for their veteran customers. Although my favorite is when I see a vehicle decorated to show support for one of the branches.
Give one piece of advice for veterans entering the industry.
I would tell any veteran new to the civilian side entering the automotive industry to embrace and retain these two traits of our service members: Standards and Confidence. Any — and I mean any — organization will benefit from a culture that can establish standards to reduce variation and increase efficiency. This also includes the most important part of a standard, which is continuous improvement. It’s important to always review a process to see if you can make that standard better. The second is confidence. It’s not easy to hear no or ask for the sale. I would advise the veteran to take the pride and confidence they earned serving their country and let that shine out in all interactions. I feel that attitude and strength is appreciated in this industry and their customers will respect that confidence and bearing.