We had the chance to speak with John Lasala from New York, a respected professional in the automobile industry who now serves as General Manager of Infiniti of Lynbrook. He’s known for starting his career in sales, where he built strong customer relationships, and then moving into management, where he leads teams and improves operations.
In this interview, John Lasala talks about his steady journey from sales to general manager, the skills that helped him grow, and the importance of teamwork and customer service. He also shares insights on leadership, problem-solving, and how staying adaptable has shaped his career success.
Interviewer: Today, we’re joined by John Lasala from New York, a respected leader in the automobile industry who serves as the General Manager of Infiniti of Lynbrook. Thank you so much for being with us today. It’s a pleasure to have you.
John Lasala: Thank you so much for having me. I truly appreciate the opportunity to talk about my journey in the automobile industry and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Cars, service, and people have always been my passion, and I’m glad to share my experience.
Interviewer: Can you tell us how your career in the automobile industry started?
John Lasala: My career began in sales, where I focused on learning the basics of customer service and understanding vehicles. It was important for me to build trust with customers and deliver a positive experience. That foundation helped me gain confidence and improve my skills. With time, I realized that sales was just the first step in a much larger path. It opened doors that eventually led me to management positions within the industry.
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Interviewer: What motivated you to move from sales into management?
John Lasala: After spending time in sales, I realized I enjoyed leading teams and helping others improve. I saw management as an opportunity to guide staff, make operations more effective, and ensure customers had the best experience. It was less about individual success and more about overall growth. I wanted to be in a position where I could influence both people and processes. That motivation pushed me toward taking on leadership responsibilities in the dealership.
Interviewer: How would you describe your journey from sales to general manager?
John Lasala: The journey has been steady and focused on constant learning. Every role I held taught me something new, whether it was sales, service, or operations. Each step required patience, commitment, and the ability to adapt to challenges. Moving into management was not an overnight process but a result of building skills and earning trust. As a general manager now, I carry all those lessons forward to run the dealership effectively and guide my team.
Interviewer: What skills do you think helped you progress in your career?
John Lasala: Key skills included communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Being able to connect with both customers and employees made a huge difference. I also focused on organization and planning, which helped keep daily operations running smoothly. Adaptability was another skill, since the automobile industry changes quickly. I learned to stay calm under pressure and look for solutions rather than focusing on problems. These skills together made it possible for me to move into higher roles.
Interviewer: How important was teamwork in your career growth?
John Lasala: Teamwork was essential at every stage of my career. In sales, teamwork helped create a supportive environment where we could learn from one another. As I moved into management, teamwork became even more important because success depended on collaboration across departments. A dealership cannot run effectively without strong cooperation. I always focused on building a culture where team members support each other, share knowledge, and work toward the same goals. Teamwork shaped my growth significantly.
Interviewer: What challenges did you face while moving into management roles?
John Lasala: One challenge was balancing responsibilities while ensuring that both staff and customers were satisfied. Management requires seeing the bigger picture, not just focusing on one area. Another challenge was earning respect from the team when stepping into leadership. It took time to prove that I could guide them effectively. I also had to adjust to making larger decisions that affected the entire dealership. These challenges taught me patience, resilience, and the importance of consistent leadership.
Interviewer: How do you approach leading a team as a general manager?
John Lasala: I lead with a clear focus on communication, support, and accountability. I believe in setting realistic goals and making sure each team member understands their role. I also focus on training and career development so employees feel valued and motivated. Leadership, for me, is about guiding rather than controlling. By creating an open and positive environment, I help the team stay engaged and committed. This approach ensures consistent results and long-term success for the dealership.
Interviewer: What role does customer service play in your work today?
John Lasala: Customer service is at the center of everything we do. No matter how efficient operations are, the true measure of success is how satisfied customers feel. I make sure that every department, from sales to service, puts the customer first. A dealership’s reputation depends on consistent care and attention. By focusing on customer service, we build long-term relationships and trust. It also drives growth, because satisfied customers return and recommend the dealership to others.
Interviewer: What do you think makes a strong general manager?
John Lasala: A strong general manager balances leadership, organization, and vision. They need to understand both the details of daily operations and the larger goals of the business. A good manager communicates clearly, supports employees, and makes decisions confidently. They must also stay adaptable in a fast-changing industry. Strong managers are not only focused on numbers but also on people. They inspire their teams to deliver consistent results and create an environment where growth can happen.
Interviewer: How do you ensure your team stays motivated?
John Lasala: I keep the team motivated by setting clear goals, recognizing achievements, and offering support when challenges arise. Training and development opportunities are also important, as they give employees a path to grow. I make sure everyone understands the impact of their work and how it contributes to overall success. Regular communication, feedback, and encouragement keep the team engaged. When people feel valued and see progress, they naturally stay motivated to deliver their best performance.
Interviewer: What role does training play in your management approach?
John Lasala: Training is vital for growth and consistency. I focus on developing the skills of each team member so they can improve their performance and feel confident in their roles. Training also ensures that the dealership operates smoothly and maintains high standards. Whether it’s new employees learning the basics or experienced staff enhancing their abilities, training is an ongoing process. By investing in training, we strengthen the team and prepare for the challenges of the industry.
Interviewer: How do you balance sales targets with customer satisfaction?
John Lasala: Balancing sales targets with customer satisfaction means focusing on long-term success rather than short-term results. I guide the team to listen carefully to customer needs instead of pushing sales. Meeting targets is important, but it should never come at the cost of trust. Satisfied customers naturally lead to strong sales numbers over time. By creating a balance, we ensure customers leave happy while the dealership continues to grow. Both goals can work together effectively.
Interviewer: What changes have you seen in the automobile industry during your career?
John Lasala: The industry has seen many changes, especially in technology, customer expectations, and operations. Customers today are more informed, so the sales approach has become more focused on service and transparency. Technology has also changed the way dealerships work, from digital tools to online communication. Another change is the focus on efficiency in service. These changes have required constant learning and adaptation. Staying current with industry trends is an important part of succeeding in management.
Interviewer: How do you keep up with industry changes and trends?
John Lasala: I stay updated through continuous learning, networking, and close observation of customer needs. I follow updates from the industry, attend events, and connect with other professionals to exchange knowledge. Training also helps both me and my team stay ahead. I focus on applying new strategies carefully so that they match customer expectations and dealership goals. Keeping up with industry changes is not just about knowledge, but also about applying it in practical ways.
Interviewer: What is your approach to problem-solving as a general manager?
John Lasala: My approach starts with understanding the issue fully before making decisions. I gather input from team members, review details, and look at possible solutions. It’s important to remain calm and avoid rushing into choices. I also consider both short-term and long-term impacts of each solution. Once a decision is made, I make sure the team understands the plan and how to execute it. Clear communication and steady leadership are key to solving problems effectively.
Interviewer: How do you measure success in your role today?
John Lasala: Success is measured through both business performance and customer satisfaction. Strong sales numbers and smooth operations show growth, but the true measure is how customers and employees feel. A positive workplace leads to better service, and satisfied customers bring long-term success. I also measure success by the development of team members. When staff grow in their roles and achieve their goals, it reflects well on the entire dealership. Balanced growth is my measure of success.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to someone starting in sales today?
John Lasala: My advice is to focus on listening, learning, and building trust. Sales is not just about numbers; it’s about connecting with people. Be patient, stay consistent, and always look for opportunities to improve. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from experienced colleagues. Treat every customer with respect and aim to provide value. Over time, these habits create a strong foundation for growth. With dedication, sales can lead to many career opportunities in the industry.
Interviewer: Looking back, what stands out most about your career journey?
John Lasala: What stands out most is the steady growth and the lessons learned at each stage. Starting in sales taught me the importance of customer service, while moving into management showed me the value of leadership and teamwork. Every step prepared me for the responsibilities I handle today. It’s rewarding to see how small beginnings led to a role with greater impact. The journey has been about progress, adaptability, and building a path forward in the industry.
Interviewer: Thank you again for your time and for sharing your journey so openly. Your insights on leadership, teamwork, and customer service are very valuable, and we’re grateful to learn from your experience in the automobile industry.
John Lasala: Thank you for having me. I appreciate the thoughtful questions. I hope my story inspires others to grow in their careers, stay dedicated to learning, and focus on creating lasting success through teamwork and care.