• Efficiency in the Sales Process
  Setting expectations up front with the customer is a key step. Walk them through the sales process and any changes you have made to the processes due to the COVID-19 crisis.
• Ask Specific Questions to Completely Understand Their Needs
  Along with asking the right questions, it is also important to explain to your customers the reasons for asking. Also, ensure you understand your customers’ needs to find the right vehicle for them. Make it clear that you are asking these things because you want to completely understand their needs so they can find the vehicle that best suits all their needs – as well as their wants. This process lets you build rapport with your customers and to also understand and set their expectations of the process. Confirm with the customer that they feel you completely understand their needs.
• Avoid Pressuring the Customer to Buy Today
  The more pressure you put on your customer, the less engaged they become. This is especially true in a virtual environment where there are multiple options right in front of them online. So, it is important to make the customer feel like they are in control of the decision to move forward in the sales process. This is where completely understanding your customers’ needs is crucial. If you have successfully aligned the customer’s lifestyle to the right vehicle, it will be much easier to engage the customer, resulting in less pressure throughout the entire process.
• Give the Customer a Straight Answer
  Be prepared to give the customer honest, straightforward answers to their questions – especially when it comes to price. This means you need to have information and resources available to answer their questions effectively. It becomes even more essential to quickly access your resources when you do not have the customer in store and may be on the phone or a video chat. (Leverage the ePRG, know your vehicle inventory, etc.). Transparent pricing makes for a better experience online and in-store.
• Avoid Problems on Delivery
  Whether your store is performing remote deliveries or customers are still coming in for their new vehicles, the crucial part of the process is that the vehicle is inspected and thoroughly cleaned in the interior and exterior prior to delivering to the customer. Once the vehicle is delivered, it is vital to explain and demonstrate the cleaning and sanitizing processes to your customers. If delivering away from the dealership, bring cleaning supplies to remove any dirt or debris accumulated while in transit.
• Ensure Understanding of Features and Functions
  If you have confirmed that you completely understand your customers’ needs, once you get to delivery, you will have a good grasp on what most matters to your customer. Leverage this knowledge and have a delivery plan for reviewing Features and Functions using the Kia eDelivery Tool. Use face coverings and observe social distancing if explaining in-person.
• Contact the Customer After Delivery
  At the time of delivery, schedule a time for follow-up and establish the method for contact. There may even be an opportunity to set up a follow-up video conference to go over any additional Features and Functions the customer may have questions about – paying particular attention to Kia Connect.
• Use a tablet or screen throughout the process
  Whether using the Kia eDelivery Tool, referring to the Kia PPC, presenting videos from Kia’s Features & Functions channel or YouTube^TM, or presenting pricing options, using tablets and screens improves the customer’s experience and confidence in the information provided, which can help close the sale.

Remember, during this time, practice social distancing and recommendations from the CDC.