By Joy Fanning
Congratulations are in order for Eric Smith, who is celebrating five years with O’Daniel Mazda. Eric moved to Fort Wayne thirteen years ago and attended Bishop Dwenger High School. After graduating from Lincoln College of Technology in Indianapolis, Eric moved back and started working at O’Daniel Automotive Group in July of 2012.
When asked what is one of the biggest things he had learned from when he started five years ago Eric stated, “To make sure to be yourself and don’t worry about how other people judge you.” This attitude works well since Eric interacts with customers on a daily basis. He admits to feeling very relaxed at work which in turn helps create a stress-free experience for customers.
Eric also stated that he loves his job because he can meet new people and develop new friendships with clients. One experience he shared was, “A customer of mine, her mother had ALS. She bought her mom a kitten and brought it in during the sale. She helped co-sign for the mom. It was a nice family experience.” Experiences like this are fantastic, and Eric’s calm, collected demeanor makes him easy to approach and talk to about vehicle needs.
Once Eric entered the car business, he hasn't looked back yet. “I was at Myrtle Beach and got a call from Ryan Keebler for an interview. I picked out a suit, had my interview and the rest was history. I stayed because of the great opportunities that have been presented, and O’Daniel treats their employees like family. My desire to work for the O’Daniel family stems from their outstanding reputation in the community.” Eric’s own family gave him some advice growing up, with his grandfather telling him: “You can’t reverse the clock. Live every day like it’s your last.” Eric’s advice from being in the car industry is, “Become friends with the service guys and prep detailers. They’ll take good care of you.”
Thank you, Eric Smith, for your five years of service with O’Dainel Mazda and to many more!
