MADE TO BE IN THIS WORLD BMW SALES MANAGER CRISTI COPELAND REVELS IN HER WORK

risti Copeland didn’t originally plan on working in the luxury automotive industry. In 2009, the ONYX BMW sales manager wanted to go into nursing; the thought of helping others appealed to her, so she made the decision to start pursuing an education in health care. In order to make ends meet, she also got a job at Gregg Young Chevrolet.

That’s when the key turned.

She fell in love with the industry. She loved the cars. She loved the pace. Mostly, Copeland loved the people, and the social aspect of the job completely drew her in and gave her pause about a career in health care. It was all too much fun. Nursing fell by the wayside as Copeland decided instead to pursue a career in car sales full-time.

Now she is assisting others in a different capacity by helping them navigate what Insider Magazine describes as one of the five most important financial decisions a person can make: purchasing a motor vehicle. This perfect fit has led to over a decade of experience in the luxury car industry, and for the last two and a half years, Copeland has served as a sales manager at BMW Omaha, part of ONYX Automotive.

Copeland has moved her way up in the sales industry. Over the years, she has worked in many capacities in the profession, including floor sales, internet sales, aftermarket, and as a finance manager. She doesn’t mind the grind, though; she is passionate about her job. Copeland takes pride in building strong relationships with her customers and is especially delighted when they come back to work with her again.

“I’ve had several customers who’ve recognized me and wanted to work with me again,” she recounted. “Being able to reconnect was great. It felt good knowing they trusted me.”

As a luxury car enthusiast, Copeland has always been drawn to BMWs. She loves the performance, technology, and aesthetics of the vehicles. Currently, she drives an M440i, known for its sporty handling and traction. She particularly likes the idrive system, which she finds easy to use and functional. In an in- dustry teeming with tech heavy choices, Copeland loves the blend of form and simplicity that BMW offers. “I am not a very techie person,” Copeland explained. “The technology of the idrive system is very easy and functional for me. It’s advanced, yet easy to use. It is easy compared to other brands. With others, I had to shift through drawers to get the same experience as I get with a BMW.”

The sales manager also has a passion for helping people make decisions about their car purchases, a moment that for some has the potential to be riddled with anxiety and unknowns. Instead, Copeland sees those decisions as nothing but opportunities. She enjoys the thrill when customers see the potential that her brand offers and finds it rewarding to see her customers’ excitement.

“One of my favorite parts of the job is helping people make their decisions on the cars,” she shared. “It’s just great to have so many choices in front of you. I’m a people person, and I love the socialization.”

Copeland also says that working for fantastic employers doesn’t hurt. She loves working for BMW Omaha and the ONYX Automotive organization. Not only does she appreciate that the dealership is a world-class facility located in West Omaha’s new Heartwood Preserve, which the Omaha World-Herald described as “Omaha’s preeminent multiuse development,” she also appreciates the community service aspects of the company. Noting that Onyx Automotive genuinely looks after its people, she said, “I love this organization, and the company. I was made to be in this world. ONYX 100% cares about their employees. They really listen to them. I trust the people in charge. They’re the kind of owners an auto business should have.”

As a woman leader in a demanding industry, Copeland says that being an outgoing people person and having a thick skin are crucial in a sales position. She also has an important message for young women looking to get into the business: “Have confidence, trust in yourself, have a good work ethic,” she said. “Be yourself.”

For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.