Chrysler recently emerged from bankruptcy selling the bulk of its assets to Fiat. But did it really have to come to this? Maybe if Chrysler took this advice I sent them back in 1997, things might have turned out differently…

Dear Head of Sales:

I’m sure you agree that we have to get more American cars on the road before the Japanese take over completely. Since I think Chrysler makes great cars, I’m willing to do my part. So I’ve devised a simple plan to double the number of cars you sell.

All you have to do is build a car that costs Chrysler $10,000 to mass produce. Then, you sell it for $28,000… but the genius of it all is to advertise that if you buy one you GET ONE FOR FREE! With this foolproof plan, you’ll put twice as many cars on the road and still make $8,000 per two cars sold. What do you think? If you like this concept, can you get me one of your cool convertibles? Or at least some stock?

Don’t buy Japanese! Buy Chrysler! (possible bumper sticker?)

A Senior Staff member from Chrysler Sales and Service responded with…

Thank you for your recent letter to Chrysler Corporation.

The time and effort you took to express your viewpoints is appreciated. Constructive criticism of the kind offered in your letter is always welcomed and is one of the most important ways we have of getting feedback. We believe it will assist us in providing the greatest possible satisfaction for our customers.

We hope we will hear from you again whenever you have constructive comments or criticisms.

Final Thoughts: Here’s wishing Fiat and the new Chrysler Group LLC much success on the road they’re now traveling. If you feel a business is heading in the wrong direction, one vehicle for getting their attention is to Write The Company.