Just because that new counter kid knows a computer and rides a dirt bike doesn’t mean he knows what to do at his job. The same applies to all your managers and team members, all the way down to the lot kid, although the lot kids sometimes seem to be the clearest about their job.

Here comes fall. Things slow down, and reassessments start – the “What ifs.” What if you did this or didn’t do that, what would be different? Clear-headed assessment can be one of the hardest things we do. But when done properly, it’s like turning on a 1,000-watt light bulb, and it shows what type of leader you really are.

On a recent morning, I visited a dealership where I was the only person on the sales floor — except for one salesman, who sat at his desk with his back to me.

Leader or manager: do you know which one you are? Chances are good that whether or not you realize it, you are both.

Theories abound on leadership. What kind of leadership is most effective? The best answer is: It depends. You’ve probably worked for several types of leaders, and possibly have demonstrated various types of leadership skills yourself, depending on the situation.

I was recently talking to a dealer principal about his direction for the coming selling season. Our conversation centered on the impending removal of his parts manager after more than 20 years. After two decades, what happened?

What qualities does it take to be a good leader? Do you look at leadership as being the work of dealer principals, general managers and department managers? If you believe that your leaders are just your managers, think again.