Bad behavior toward women not norm

TO THE EDITOR:

As a woman who has worked in automotive retail for nearly 30 years, I wanted to offer a differing perspective from "This is why few women stay in dealership jobs" (Jackie Charniga, March 2).

As a CPA and dealership consultant, I've had the opportunity to visit hundreds of dealerships and meet with dealers, their leadership teams and staff. While there is no place in dealerships for unwelcome advances, or lack of professionalism, I believe there has been great progress since I started my career in the early '90s. Many dealers I've interacted with have women in the highest of leadership roles, from C-suite executives, parts managers, general managers to dealer principals, in some of the most highly respected dealership groups in the country. This progress comes from dealers attracting talent and developing respect as part of their culture.

I've met many women who have expressed great satisfaction from their automotive careers, and I trust they would not share this sentiment if it were not true. The industry has become more professional and conscious of the proper way to treat individuals with respect and courtesy. In addition, there are more women's initiatives in retail automotive now than ever. What a great time to be part of it!

So while there may be some individuals who may cause some women to second-guess whether to enter into, or stay in, this industry, I'd like to suggest we do not let the actions of a few outweigh the incredibly good of the many.

MARILOU VROMAN, Principal, Axiom Advisors, Miami, Axiom Advisors offers consulting services for auto dealers.