How Trust and Accountability Drive Long-Term Performance

Few qualities are as universally valued and as often misunderstood as trust and accountability. For Hal Somers, Owner and President of Towne Auto Group in New Brunswick, these aren’t just buzzwords; they are the bedrock of a business that has not only survived but thrived through decades of economic ups and downs.

Hal’s journey offers a masterclass in building a culture where people genuinely care about the company’s future. Early in his career, Hal recognized that he couldn’t do it all himself. He openly admits he’s not a finance guy, but he is a people person. Instead of pretending to have all the answers, he surrounded himself with experts, asked for help when needed, and empowered his team to step up. This willingness to trust others set the tone for his entire organization.

Accountability at Towne Auto Group isn’t about micromanagement or rigid control. Instead, Hal implemented performance-based bonus plans for his managers. These plans shifted the mindset from job security to shared ownership in the company’s success. Managers were no longer just employees - they became partners with a stake in the outcome. As Hal recalls, “It made more people care about my business than just me. It made all my managers care about my business and growing the business.”

This approach wasn’t without its challenges. Some employees were uncomfortable with the shift and chose to leave. But Hal stands by the decision, noting that it ultimately created a team that was more invested, more motivated, and more resilient. Today, if he were to take away the performance-based bonuses, he jokes, “more people would quit over that now than anything else.”

Trust, as Hal describes it, is built on consistency and transparency. Employees know his values, how he’ll react under pressure, and that he’ll have their backs if they deliver. This predictability fosters a sense of security, even during tough times. It’s also why so many of his team members have stayed with him for decades - a rarity in the automotive industry.

Hal’s leadership style is rooted in humility. He’s quick to acknowledge his own weaknesses and seeks out people who are smarter than him in different areas. He believes that the right people in the right roles are essential, and he’s not afraid to make changes when someone isn’t the right fit. This isn’t about being ruthless; it’s about ensuring that everyone is set up for success.

A pivotal moment in Hal’s career came when he faced a financial crisis and had to ask for outside help. By bringing in an experienced investment banker, he not only saved his business but also learned the value of asking questions and challenging the status quo. This experience reinforced his belief in the power of peer groups and support networks. Hal encourages young entrepreneurs to find mentors, join industry groups, and never be afraid to admit what they don’t know.

The results speak for themselves. Towne Auto Group has become one of the most respected automotive groups in the region, known not just for its business success but for its commitment to community and people. Hal’s managers and staff are deeply loyal, and the company’s reputation for integrity and service extends far beyond its customer base.

Key Lessons for Business Owners:

• Trust starts with humility: know your strengths and weaknesses and surround yourself with people who complement you.

• Accountability is most effective when everyone has a stake in the outcome. Performance-based incentives can transform a team’s engagement and drive.

• Consistency and transparency from leadership build the trust that keeps teams together through thick and thin.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek outside perspectives - sometimes the best solutions come from admitting what you don’t know.

When employee loyalty and engagement are harder to come by, Hal Somers’ approach to trust and accountability offers a blueprint for long-term performance. His story is a reminder that business success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people, relationships, and the culture you build every day.