Women are now depicted in control of impressive machines, passing rows of semi trailers and skillfully avoiding sudden dangers on the highway. These women make their own purchasing decisions, and are shown accepting the keys after successfully concluding their deals. Sadly, this view of women ends with the advertising image. The auto showroom is still an extremely sexist environment. While other workplaces have slowly moved to include more women, the auto showroom, with few exceptions, remains an exclusive men's club.
Saleswomen are rare and female managers are almost nonexistent.
This attitude may even extend to female customers. Salesmen can be slow to take women customers if they see a wedding ring on the assumption that the final decision won't be made without the husband. Unmarried women too, are frequently avoided. They are gaining a reputation as price shoppers-not a good bet for a quick sale. The problem for women and some minorities is further exacerbated by the fact that prices and sales tactics may be determined by how the customer is seen by a salesman.