#426 - AI Bots in the Dealership: How to Use Them Without Losing The Sale

In this episode of the Independent Dealer Podcast, Jeff Watson and Luke Godwin sit down with Maggie Pugesek, Partner at C&M Coaching, to talk about one of the most misunderstood tools in the dealership right now — AI bots. From lead response and after-hours coverage to the ways salespeople are accidentally killing bot-set appointments, this conversation breaks down how to use AI as a sales asset without losing the human connection that closes deals. What You'll Learn:Why AI bots are a game-changer for after-hours lead response and appointment setting — and where they fall short How salespeople are undermining bots by telling customers "that was just a bot" — and how to stop it The right way to train your team to work with AI instead of against it How to use bots to handle low-level follow-up so your best personalities can focus on building relationships What the future of the dealership floor looks like when AI handles the process and people handle the rapportIf you're a buy here pay here or independent dealer trying to figure out how AI fits into your sales process without costing you deals, this episode is your starting point.Support the businesses that support the podcast: Buckeye Risk Services - Reinsurance and wealth strategies for independent dealers. https://theindependentdealer.com/buckeyeBlytzPay - BHPH payment processing with fast funding and text-to-pay. https://theindependentdealer.com/blytzpayIturan GPS - Asset protection and customer management for BHPH and retail dealers. https://theindependentdealer.com/ituranFollow & Connect: Website: www.theindependentdealer.comFacebook Group: @independentautogroup Luke Godwin: @lukegodwin Jeff Watson: /sendtojeffwLike, subscribe, and share this with a dealer who needs to hear it.