In this episode of Training Camp, host Adam Marburger sits down with Ken and Kenny Cook, the dynamic father-and-son duo behind BZ Automotive Group, to share their insights into training, culture, and perseverance in business leadership and personal growth.
BZ Automotive actively builds high-performing teams by integrating training into its core values, maintaining organization and structure, coaching with compassion and intention, and leading by example.
According to the Cooks’, creating successful teams begins with the hiring process. Every new hire should show a desire to learn and embrace a growth mindset. When teams are open to learning, they are better positioned for progress.
Ken also emphasizes the importance of creating and maintaining structured routines. His leadership team hosts daily morning training sessions with their team to foster consistency and intentionality.
In addition, Kenny advises that the key is to plan and know what topics will be addressed well in advance. Pre-planning topics ensure alignment across the entire leadership team and guarantee that there will always be a productive topic of discussion.
However, keeping the information engaging and avoiding monotony is also essential. BZ Automotive’s leadership team incorporates tools such as Kahoot quizzes and encourages senior team members to lead discussions to inspire and engage everyone.
Another critical factor in developing high-performing teams is tailoring coaching to address team member’s specific areas of opportunity. Ken likens employee development to parenting, in which leaders should coach their teams with compassion and attempt to help them understand where there are areas of opportunity. However, the focus should not be solely on professional success and increasing numbers but rather on motivating and encouraging teams to become better versions of themselves.
Finally, Ken shares profound advice with the audience: “Find your purpose.” It requires a resilient and strong-minded individual to consistently show up and give their best effort. Leading by example is one of the most frequently overlooked aspects of effective leadership. When leaders embody the behaviors they wish to see, they inspire their teams and demonstrate genuine commitment.
These strategies reflect BZ Automotive Group’s belief that training is a vital component of professional development and personal success, ultimately leading to organizational achievement.
"Training isn’t just about being a good salesperson—it’s about being a good person in all aspects of life." — Ken Cook
