For #InternationalWomensDay, we didn’t just want to champion women who pioneered the automotive industry way back when, but also those who are at the top of their game today. So we sat down for a chat with Sarah Gatley - OEM/Dealer Relationship Manager here at Select Car Leasing, to share her thoughts on the roles and challenges for women like her in the automotive industry.
What made you choose the career you have?
"I started in the industry at a very young age (15!)
I have worked in many roles in the industry over the years and always worked with strong female leaders who I aspired to, in what is still a very male dominated industry.
The passion and support shown from those women is the reason I chose to stay within the automotive industry. They taught me that success and progression is possible for anyone if you believe you can do it."
What advice would you give any women looking to get into the automotive industry?
"Be authentic, your success will come from you being you and not trying to be someone else.It can be a very intimidating industry at times. No matter the gender, education or position of who you meet in your working career, always remember that underneath that intimidating front, they are simply a real person with their own life experiences.
They will learn from you just as much as you will from them - remind yourself this everyday!
Also, not all roles in the industry suit a specific type of person. There are plenty of avenues and opportunities within this industry (and you don’t need to know or love vehicles!)"
Do you think leasing is widely understood amongst your peer group?
"You hear so much about car leasing, and even with the information that is available on websites such as Select's, I think women can find there is still a lack of clarity on the types of leasing available to them. The question I also often get is 'what are the benefits compared to buying?' (of which there are many!).
I think people can be hesitant of being tied to a leasing contract, or wonder what happens to the lease vehicle if their personal circumstances change. However, the more information that people know is available to them the sooner they can make informed decisions for themselves."
Can more be done to educate people on the benefits of leasing a vehicle?
"Yes, there is lots that can be done to help everyone, whether male or female, gain more knowledge around leasing. The Select website has a huge range of simply written guides about the pros and cons of leasing. Why not start there!"
Do you or your friends or family have an electric vehicle? If not, is it something you’d consider?
"I have been driving the Tesla Model 3 – my first electric car - since January.
When I had ordered the car, I was a little uncertain of the decision as I travel to the office in the week which is approx. 300 miles round trip. However, it has been extremely easy to adapt to and the superchargers are my friend (speed cameras not so much!)
Since I have moved to an electric vehicle, my family have seen the simplicity and would now be excited to go to electric - this wouldn’t have even been a consideration had they not heard about my experience."
In a traditionally male-dominated industry, how can we break the bias of ‘cars = men’?
"Bring back Sheila’s Wheels - ha! I think an inclusion of women in all aspects of the industry can help it feel more approachable, if they perhaps do feel intimated.
Also where and how it is advertised across the media. Make it relatable, meet women where they are i.e advertising/partnering with brands that women engage with regularly already! #breakthebias!"
Do you see leasing as a vehicle solution that empowers women to get what they want/deserve?
"Absolutely. It’s a chance to get a taste of your dream car without all the expense of buying it. I would never have thought that I could drive a Tesla Model 3, but through leasing I have been able to achieve this.
Leasing is great because it helps you realise your aspirations and this in turn gives you greater confidence. This is a great thing because we need more confident women in industry to help break the glass ceiling."
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