Terry Lee Honda

Get to know Terry Lee ~
Terry Lee cut his auto-industry teeth in Indianapolis – now he has returned. Terry Lee Honda opened on February 2nd and is proudly serving the greater Indianapolis area. The owner of Cincinnati's Terry Lee Chevrolet has built a new Honda dealership in Avon, a northwestern suburb of Indiana's capital city. That's where Lee started selling Pontiac cars at 21 after applying to 16 dealerships - 14 of which turned him down. In the first 11 years of his career, Lee set sales records for Pontiac, then sold for Cadillac, Porche, Volvo and Land Rover. He entered the Cincinnati market by acquiring a Loveland dealership from John Voss in 1995. Location is one factor in his success. Once on the outskirts of town, the Kings Automall has become Cincinnati's Main Street for new car sales. A car is sold there every eight minutes, he says. A Mason resident, Lee is divorced with no kids and owns season tickets to Indy's Colts and Pacers, along with Cincinnati's Reds and Bengals.

Why do you have this career?
It kind of just happened. I liked cars and sales, and it became a good fit for me. I always looked at other opportunities, but every time I tried to get out ... like Al Pacino in "The Godfather," it pulled me back in. Actually, I am glad it did!
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Convincing the employees and customers that it is not as bad as the media portrays it. We all have to stop and count our blessings. Keep positive and keep selling!
What advice would you give a new boss?
Communicate every day with everybody in your organization as possible. If you don't, they will have their own meeting and chances are it won't be as positive and accurate as yours.
What do you regard as your lowest depths of misery?
I don't have any lowest depths. I always see the glass half-full. For every disadvantage, I believe there is an advantage if you look for it.
You've been given $100,00 for charity. Which and why?
The Ruth Lyons Children's fund. It makes sure a kid gets their very own toy while in the Children's Hospital. I don't care how old you are, going to hospitals is scary!
Describe your favorite vacation spot.
Kaui, Hawaii. It has beautiful golf courses and beaches, very romantic, great hotels, spas, perfect weather and very laid-back. Aloha!
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Being with your significant other at the place (mentioned) above watching the Bengals in the Super Bowl at the pool bar!
Name the best book you've ever read
"The Purpose Driven Life."
What trait do you most value in your friends?
Their good motives and intentions.
How do you most like to spend your money?
Shopping. I am a professional. I must shop several hours a week to keep my license current. I find it therapeutic.
What scares you?
I have a very long list.

Read more at www.terryleehonda.com