Thinking about leaving Telecom Sales for a Service Advisor role, what should I look or for ?

I currently work in sales for one of the largest telecommunications companies. I’ve been successful in the role, but the company recently cut our commission nearly in half. Management also puts a lot of pressure on us to sell customers things they may not actually need, which I’m getting tired of.

Even when I work hard and perform well, the earning potential just isn’t what it used to be.

My best friend is a service advisor at Lexus and makes very good money. My former manager was recently laid off and became a service advisor at Kia. He told me he made around $12,000 last month, and it was only his third month in the position. He is a strong salesperson, so I believe him.

Both of them tell me that being a service advisor can be easier and more profitable than phone sales. Their reasoning makes sense: people may not need the latest phone, but most people rely on their cars and eventually need maintenance or repairs.

I’m located in Georgia and seriously considering making the switch. I know my sales skills would transfer well, but I want to make sure I choose the right dealership.

For experienced service advisors:

• Is there really consistent money to be made in this career?
• What should I look for when interviewing with a dealership?
• What questions should I ask about the pay plan, commission structure, customer traffic, technician availability, and number of advisors?
• Are luxury brands such as Lexus, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, or BMW usually more profitable, or can a busy Honda, Toyota, Kia, or Ford dealership pay just as well?
• How can I tell whether a dealership has enough repair orders and customer volume for advisors to make strong money?
• What are some red flags that the dealership or pay plan may not be worth it?

I’m planning to apply to several dealerships soon, but I want to understand what separates a dealership where advisors make average money from one where top performers can realistically earn $100,000 or more.

Any advice from people currently working as service advisors would be appreciated.