field notes - the quest blog

JUN
29
2011

Be your own boat salesperson!

by Matt Douthitt      Posted at 1:28 pm         
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We've all been there. That brand new boat is perfect. So shiny and sleek. Quite possibly it's the gateway to our happiness on the water. But alas, our significant other sees it as a mere piece of plastic just like all the “other ones” we already own. In a fierce moment a harsh directive is given, “Not one more boat is to come onto this property!”


What are we to do? There are only a few realistic options to consider. We could build a barn if property size allows for us to “stash” our new boat so as not to draw attention to the brightly colored 8'-18' long watercraft. We could store boats “off-site” but run the risk of calling attention to rental fees. The simplest solution I see is to become a salesperson. Let me explain.


When you come to Quest you notice that we are salespeople of sorts. Not in the traditional sense, but more like teachers. How you may ask? The information and experience we provide about a specific boat is not just information for you. It is vital information that will need to be quickly recalled when you take the boat home and the first question asked is, “What's this!?” When confronted with this question you need to immediately become a salesperson. Consider these “take-home” points.


1: This is not “your” boat. Explain that this is “our” boat. Bring as many family members into your decision to buy the boat. This humanizes your decision and relieves any misunderstood selfishness. You did this for the family.


2: List all health benefits. A doctor's note is helpful but not necessary. Explain how this boat can catapult you to a new level of fitness.


3: If you already own boats, you must be able to explain how this boat is vastly different than the ones already owned.


4: Bold but effective, you can also buy a boat for your signi?cant other. This is called the jet-ski effect (ever seen one jet-ski on a trailer?). This works better than step one since you have concretely included your significant other. Be warned, you have doubled your costs!


5: Just like an interview, be prepared. Anticipate possible questions and formulate answers. Graphs and visuals are always helpful! Powerpoint presentations are not out of the question.


Hopefully these will lessen the blow of NBS (New Boat Syndrome). If you have further questions or would like someone to talk you through this process please call one of our stores. We're here to help. You're not alone.



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