As an independent auto dealer in Utah, you likely have a long list of tasks that need to be accomplished each day. From managing inventory to completing paperwork to handling customer inquiries, it can feel like there’s always something that needs your attention. With so much on your plate, it’s understandable that you might feel like you have to do everything yourself. However, outsourcing certain tasks can help you save time, money, and stress.

Here are some examples of tasks, jobs, or other expenses that can be outsourced.  Often this can be done at a much lower cost than doing it in-house which allows you the ability to stay focused on your strengths.

1. Marketing – Many companies, independents, and contractors offer marketing services.  Some offer to manage your online profiles, keep you in front of your audience, make sure you stay current, and inform your audience of promotions and new offerings.
2. Merchandising – Taking pictures of your inventory and putting them online can be a part or full time job.  There are companies and individuals that will set up regular schedules to come by and take care of this task for you.
3. Reviews – Many companies offer to help you manage your online reviews.  They mitigate poor reviews, promote good ones and help you keep a steady presence that builds over time.
4. Vehicle Registrations and Plating – There are companies that will come pick up your paperwork, do all the registration and plating and send the plates directly to your customers or bring them back to your dealership. PlatePal is such a company.
5. Quick Wash – You can contract services that will come by on regular schedules to wash your inventory right on your lot.  They have wash trucks and quickly go over your entire inventory.
6. Snow Removal – You can find a service that will take this worry off your plate.
7. Office Cleaning – Hire a cleaning person or company to take care of your offices so they are always presentable.
8. Website Maintenance – You can find individuals or companies that will manage the care of your website and handling large and small requests from you for it’s improvement.
9. Accounting – Consider outsourcing some of your accounting work to a firm or independent. 

There are many other areas that can be outsourced as well. Here are some tips on how to know what services are available for you to outsource.

Take an Inventory of Your Tasks
Start by making a list of all the tasks that you handle on a daily or weekly basis. This could include things like managing your inventory, handling customer inquiries, completing paperwork, managing your website, and more. Once you have a comprehensive list, you can start to think about which tasks could be outsourced.

Consider Your Strengths and Weaknesses
As you review your list of tasks, think about your strengths and weaknesses. Which tasks do you enjoy doing and excel at? Which tasks do you struggle with or find frustrating? By identifying your strengths and weaknesses, you can start to determine which tasks are better suited for outsourcing.

Research Outsourcing Options
Once you’ve identified the tasks you’d like to outsource, it’s time to start researching your options. There are a variety of services available for independent auto dealers, including inventory management, website design, customer service, and more. Look for companies that specialize in the services you need and have a proven track record of success.

Determine the Cost-benefit
Before you commit to outsourcing a task, consider the cost-benefit. How much will it cost to outsource the task? Will outsourcing save you time or money in the long run? Will it allow you to focus on other areas of your business that require your attention? By weighing the costs and benefits, you can make an informed decision about whether outsourcing is the right choice for you.

Start Small
If you’re new to outsourcing, start small. Begin by outsourcing a single task or project and see how it goes. As you become more comfortable with outsourcing, you can start to delegate more tasks and responsibilities.

In conclusion, as an independent auto dealer, it’s important to understand what services are available for outsourcing. By taking an inventory of your tasks, considering your strengths and weaknesses, researching outsourcing options, determining the cost-benefit, and starting small, you can successfully outsource tasks and free up valuable time and resources to focus on growing your business.