Dealing with stealing customers

Dec. 13, 2011
Screening doesn't always ensure every customer is perfect.

By selecting your customers and reading them, you can avoid having skips. As a salesman, you learn to trust your judgment.

But, even screening cannot ensure every customer is perfect.

"I once caught a guy stealing out of my truck," J.R. said. "Instead of yelling about it, I went to him very calmly, put my hand on his shoulder, looked him straight in the eye and asked him, 'Have I ever failed you? Because if I have ever failed you, I want you to tell me.' "

The customer paid in full for the stolen product.

"One day I met the customer again and I said, 'Forget the past.' To this day, he's one of my best customers." J.R. credits that continuing positive relationship to his being calm with the customer and giving him the opportunity to do the right thing, and the following forgiveness of the episode.

Have a sales strategy or helpful hint you'd like to share? Send your "30-second sales seminar" to [email protected], and see your suggestion featured here!

Sponsored Recommendations

Snap-on Training: ADAS Level 2 - Component Testing

The second video for Snap-on's comprehensive overview of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), covering the fundamental concepts and functionalities essential for automotive...

Snap-on Training: Intro to ADAS

Snap-on's training video provides a comprehensive overview of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), covering the fundamental concepts and functionalities essential for automotive...

Snap-on Training: Guided Component Tests Level 2

The second video for Snap-on's comprehensive overview of Guided Component Tests, covering the fundamental concepts essential for diagnostic procedures.

Snap-on Training: Data Bus Testing and Diagnosis Part 1

Learn the basics of vehicle data buses and their diagnosis with Snap-on's Jason Gabrenas.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!