CARY, N.C. -

Roger Fields, general manager of Dealers Auto Auction of Huntsville, cites a solid rule of thumb when talking about management priority No. 1.

“Always treat others the way you want to be treated and never make a promise that you can’t follow through with, and (I) never ask someone to do something that I myself would not do,” he said.

A similar leadership spirit can be found when Fields shares what makes his auction stand out in terms of being a good place to work.

“Working for a great man, David Andrews, who genuinely cares about each and every employee,” Fields said, referring to the auction’s owner. “He listens to each individual’s concerns and makes it a point to know everyone’s name, birthday and wedding anniversary. If it is special to us, it is special to him as well.”

And keeping a positive workplace can certainly be beneficial, Fields said: “Having a positive attitude just sparks everyone around you. Smiles promote smiles. A happy employee makes a happy customer; in turn, it keeps them coming back.  A person’s attitude drives their work behavior; positive people tend to work more efficiently and faster.”

So how does the auction keep morale high? Things like bonuses, taking drivers out for breakfast and employee parties certainly help. But lending an ear might be even more crucial.

“The most important thing I think I do as a manager is listen to each employee, as I was taught by my boss, owner and friend, David Andrews. You can always get employees, but to get great employees something has to be right,” Fields said. “I am a very blessed person who has the honor of being their leader. This team is confident, work on their own, and push themselves to be the best.  At Dealer’s Auto Auction of Huntsville, the main reason for our success, each individual treats their job as if that job was their own company. “ 

View the complete list of honorees here.