Well, since I spend so much time riding, working on, and talking about Harleys, I figured I minus well go over to the dealership and apply for a job. I put in my application, nailed the interview and got hired on as a salesman. I was wondering if there are any other Harley Davidson salespeople out there, and what advice they would have to becomming successful in this line of work.

 

Larry,

I am in the process of applying for a sales position at my local dealer. I'm hanging up the COP business after 24 years. I'll let you know how it goes.

Wish Me Luck

 

I'm not a Harley sales person, but I do help the Harley Dealer in my State do his advertising, and Sales is a big part of advertising.... I know most of the sales guys at my local dealership, and I have to say - I like them all. Here's a few of the reasons why I like some of these guys, and think that they're great at what they do.

1- They don't try to sell anyone - anything. They know that if you're there - you're already sold. One guy "Mac" makes it his mission to help his customer find the right bike for them. He never pushes his favorite bike - he helps his customer find there perfect fit for them.

2- Product knowledge is key to every sales job. The same guy, Mac, knows his job, and his product. He's a great listener, and asks the right questions. He wants to know what you love about bikes, where you're going, is it comfort - speed - big trips - just cruzin around town.... He's very good about getting his customer to open up. Once he finds out what the customer REALLY needs - he starts the grand tour. He'll have you sit on many different bikes, and point out how they feel different - handle different....

3- Have fun. Mac is like a people magnet. He loves his job, he loves working with people, and he's got a killer attitude. When my Bro bought his 2005 H-C he bought it through Mac, and because the experience was so good - he had me go out to that same Dealer to buy mine. Mac wasn't there that day - but the guy who helped me was also great.

 

Never been a sales man per say, friends say I could sell ice to a eskimo. Here is my .02 worth of advice. Remember how you like to be treated and treat your coustomers that way. You know the feeling when your trying to just look and you have a pesky salesman there running off at the soup cooler. Or when you already know what you want and some over zealous salesmans tries to get you to buy something else. Just be yourself and know your product line and you will do well.

Good Luck and Congrats

 

Terry,

It is kind of funny that you say that. I was also thinking of becoming a civilian cop as well. (I am branched Military Police in the army reserves) But finding the right department to work for as well as finding one to sponsor you through the acadamy is difficult. So in the mean time, I will work here at Harley Davidson until I can finish the acadamy. Perhaps I might even like selling Harleys and just stay here. We will see.

 

Having very recent experience with a HD salesman this sounds like a dream job:

Me "What bikes are for sale on the floor?"

Him "None sorry they are all sold, but we have a shipment coming next month"

Me "Whats for sale in that lot then ?"

Him "Let me look (wanders off and comes back) sorry all sold too"

Me "OK (deep breath) When can you sell me a bike !!!!!"

Him "How does 4 months time sound?"

Me "Thats the middle of winter!!!!!!!!"

Him "Well have a think about it and let me know before they are all gone to I guess. Sorry I could not help more..."

Off to phone other dealers all over Australia for much the same experience.

I am not sure where the actual selling was but if they are on commission there was no need to stress about anything other than not being able to get bikes in quickly enough.

cheers
Surly

 

good salesmen are succsessful when customers are happy!

product knowledge,non pestering,availability for questions,

lack anyone of these"no sale"

 

we own four dealerships here in the uk and i have been the top salesman for the last couple of years.

so far your comments have been spot on.

A customers happiness is the first step.
then find out bike requirements and budget
if you have something that may be appropriate then arrange a test ride.


always remember that an un happy customer will tell fifty of his friends.

most people will recommend you but mainly only when asked.

as for hassling customers(the pesky salesman)
i normally say hello and offer them coffee,introduce my self and then tell them to shout if they need questions answered

 

And an award winner too!!



Whatever next?????



Congrats on winning the 2005 UK Buell Dealer of the Year Award Darren

Lev

 

Thank you!! was a pleasant suprise for a change.

dont go out looking for awards,we just love playing with the best bikes in the world

you meet the nicest people too