The Big Idea: Leverage isn’t something handed to you…it’s something you build. If you feel stuck in a role where decisions are made for you, where your value feels overlooked, and where others hold the cards, it’s time to start dealing from your deck. I know how that feels. In 2018, I thought I had no choice but to play the cards I was dealt. But that wasn’t true. The moment I realized my power and decided to bet on myself… everything changed.
The Reinvention Story: From Powerless to Leverage
In 2018, I was at the top of my game…or so it seemed. I was running a highly profitable export department within a dealer group. I had built this program from the ground up…managing both sides of the business, from sourcing vehicles in Canada to exporting and selling them in the United States. It was a well oiled machine, and I was running it with the help of one incredibly competent assistant.
Things were smooth. The dealer group gave me autonomy, rarely questioned my process, and I was earning big. But then, like so many times before, the split was altered…and not in my favor. I distinctly remember the frustration in that moment. I wasn’t just bringing something to the table…I was the table. Yet, I felt powerless. I thought they had all the leverage, and I had no choice but to accept it.
For a while, I did. I stayed quiet and kept working, even though it didn’t feel right. But not long after, something clicked. The leverage wasn’t theirs…it was mine all along. I had knowledge, connections, and expertise that no one else did. That realization was my turning point.
I started small. I built a presence on LinkedIn, sharing insights about the Can-Am import/export space. That opened doors. I formed a USA based company, Can-Am Dealer Services, to provide niche replacement warranties for OEM warranties voided due to export from the original intended market www.canamwarranty.com
The "Can-Am Car Guy" was born, and I then doubled down on my branding efforts.
Soon after, my branding efforts paid off again. One of the largest dealer groups in Canada, noticed my work and contracted me to build and run an export division on a pilot basis. Leaving my previous arrangement was a risk, but it was a risk I was finally ready to take.
That wasn’t the end, though. As I started to see the opportunities my belief in myself had created, I doubled down again. I built my own admin and media team in the Philippines. With their support, I organized and expanded my personal brand, mastering tools like design and email marketing (like the newsletter you’re reading now). That work…defining my values, positioning myself, and building a system…was transformative. It helped me realize who I was, what I stood for, and where I was going. Most importantly, How valuable I was
The Big Dealer Group play changed the same way so many others had previously in my career…Abruptly. A board-level shake-up displaced the guy who had provided one “Trust me” after another… and that was the end
The difference this time? ….I had my own leverage
Flash Forward to Today
Today, I’m back doing the same work I was doing in 2018…buying, selling, and exporting vehicles…but with a completely different dynamic. I’m not beholden to a single source of opportunity. I also own the dealer services company with nearly 1,000 registered dealers, I’m a sought-after coach, consultant and advisor, a co-founder of a startup poised to disrupt the industry, and the creator of a thriving personal brand.
Opportunities come to me daily. I turn things down that I would have killed for just a few short years ago. If it doesn’t fit the Flywheel I have created …it’s a hard no
I transformed from a single source to multiple thriving sources
None of this happened by accident. It started in a moment of clarity, when I realized I wasn’t powerless and made the decision to bet on myself.
This edition of Manorisms is proudly sponsored by
Auto Auction Review
How You Can Build Leverage of Your Own
If you’re feeling stuck, undervalued, or out of control, here’s how you can start building your leverage today:
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Position Yourself as an Expert
Start sharing your knowledge and insights online. LinkedIn is a great place to begin. Be consistent and authentic…people are drawn to real stories and valuable advice. -
Hire a Mentor or Coach
Find someone who’s been where you are and learn from them. A good mentor can help you accelerate your growth and avoid mistakes. -
Invest in Your Personal Brand
Your personal brand is your leverage. Optimize your LinkedIn profile, share content, and position yourself as a resource in your niche. It doesn’t happen overnight, but every post and connection adds momentum. You build a Trust Vault -
Join Communities and Attend Events
Network with like-minded individuals who share your goals. These connections can open doors and spark ideas, Whether online groups, local meetups, or conferences. -
Commit to Continuous Learning
Growth comes from new knowledge and skills. Read books, listen to podcasts, and engage with content that challenges and inspires you. -
Build a System
Leverage comes from consistency and scalability. Whether it’s creating content, organizing workflows, or hiring support, small systems create big results over time.
Stack The Deck
What’s Next?
If you’re ready to take that first step toward betting on yourself, I’ve created a resource to help: Freedom Formula Lite. It’s a simplified guide to building leverage, creating autonomy, and positioning yourself as an expert.
[Download Freedom Formula Lite Here]
The moment you realize your true power is the moment everything changes. I’m living proof. Bet on yourself…it’s the smartest decision you’ll ever make.
That’s all for now
See You Next Tuesday ;-)
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About Bob Manor
Bob Manor is the founder of South Ontario Auto Remarketing, Can-Am Dealer Services, and is Co-Founder of Auto Auction Review. Bob is also the creator of the Freedom Formula. With over 30 years of experience in the car dealership world, Bob specializes in wholesale, dealer services, and personal branding. His mission is to help dealership professionals take control of their careers, build resilient personal brands, and achieve lasting freedom in business and life.
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