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Aiming to help others love their vehicles, Amber Kendall was selected as the 2023 Sales Professional of the Year at Nissan/CDJR Andalusia owned by Step One Automotive Group.

March will mark Kendall’s six years of employment at the Nissan/CDJR Andalusia dealerships and three as a sales professional. She sold 165 vehicles in 2023 and received monthly awards in March, April, August, and September.

“I enjoy my job because we may have never crossed paths if it weren’t for a set of keys,” Kendall said. “We were having a meeting when it was announced. I was really in shock because I love what I do and was not expecting any recognition. I appreciate it because I take my job very seriously. It’s not only nice to receive recognition from the company but also the public. My job would not be possible without the community and the customers.”

According to her, the most enjoyable aspect of her position includes meeting and assisting customers.

“I enjoy the education part and constantly put myself in someone else’s position. With all the things involved with purchasing a vehicle, sometimes we are not aware of everything involved. It is a whole process that can be overwhelming and scary. Most of the time, a car purchase is the second-largest purchase we make in our lifetime other than a home. To be that moral support and see somebody get what he or she deserves rather than what he or she wants means everything. I enjoy the connection I make with others and hopefully see the process happen months, years, and even further into the future,” she said.

Kendall added that she never envisioned herself selling vehicles while growing up in Opp. For that reason, this award and recognition mean a lot to her.

“The good Lord provides all the time. I feel like there is always an interaction I make with somebody who reiterates the purpose for why I was given this opportunity. I’m very thankful to be in the position I’m in.”

Moving forward, her goal is to learn more about the financial aspects of the company. She has been dual learning while selling vehicles.

“It’s exciting but stressful sometimes, but I have enjoyed it and see it as a way for me to grow and make an even bigger impact on the customer. Time will tell; I’m just going to keep going with the flow and let the good Lord provide because He always does. I try to brand myself in videos or social media posts that all things are possible. We have to figure out a way to get the plan together and follow through,” Kendall said.

Kendall feels Nissan/CDJR Andalusia’s employees are a team that helps each other grow. Along with her loved ones, that support means everything to her.

“My parents tell me all the time how proud they are of me. My mom has been through some stuff over the last few years. I couldn’t ask for better support from my coworkers, management, and customers. It makes me happy to see people I’ve already sold cars comment to others and reiterate what a great experience they had. We are team-oriented here. I wouldn’t be able to do what I do if it weren’t for the people I work for every day. We want our customers to understand we are not just trying to sell you a vehicle, but we also want you to join our family and allow us to take care of you. Whether you need service, sales, or anything involving a vehicle, you don’t have to worry about getting the answers to your questions,” she said.

Amber is the daughter of Gary and Diane Kendall.

“We wanted to present Amber with Sales Professional of the Year not only because she sold the most vehicles for the calendar year 2023 but also because we wanted her to know her outstanding customer service experience and expertise as a sales professional did not go unnoticed. She has the ability to adapt her sales pitch to meet the client’s specific needs and always shows a positive attitude, resilience, and willingness to go above and beyond. Her efforts make a significant difference in our team’s success. Amber’s dedication to her work is truly inspiring,” Step One Automotive Group Store Director Michael Lockhart said.