Women in Detailing

For centuries women have fought to shatter the “glass ceiling” in many areas, including pushing their way into what have long been considered primarily male industries. While some people and countries have seemed to succeed, others appear to lag behind them.

In the detailing industry in most countries we’ve made a good start toward shattering the glass ceiling. There are many women detailers as well as detail businesses that are female-owned. But just because we’ve crossed this bridge doesn’t mean there aren’t others ahead.

The auto detailing industry has a long history, dating all the way back to the 1800s. While innovation with new technology has pushed the industry forward through the years, the detailing business has long been a male-dominated industry. Unfortunately, women detailers don’t always have the joy of experiencing the respect that they deserve. Many of them have been overlooked both by industry insiders and by customers.

Women detailers are sometimes assumed to be merely related to a male in the detailing industry, assumed to play a more minor role in detailing operations, or even when acknowledged are assumed to be less proficient and knowledgeable than their male counterparts. In many cases the bias may be unintentional, but it exists, nonetheless. Issues such as these can be improved upon with a little awareness.

The female detailer is as capable as the male detailer at being knowledgeable and skilled in their profession. Being a minority in a room full of men can certainly be overwhelming for even the most confident woman. But a simple recipe for success is to know your product and know your industry.

Investing in the relationship with your customers goes a long way in overcoming this hurdle. Let your work reassure them that you can both meet and exceed their expectations. Attitude also plays a huge role in the response you receive. Have confidence in the knowledge you hold, and your ability to face and overcome challenges. Always be open to listening and discussion – asking questions is not a sign of weakness. Showing humility in what you lack in experience or expertise helps you grow and shows your willingness to do so.