Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

There really is no solution. Signs help. Velvet ropes help. But some people are just rude and think these boats are there for thier amusement. I stopped doing shows because I got sick of it.

NO FOOD
NO SHOES
NO DRINKS are a MUST

"Who told you to wear THOSE shoes to a boat show anyway?"

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

How about a requirement that everyone who plans to board and look around must fill out a credit report first? At least that will weed out the ones who aren't all that interested. And you won't insult the real buyers either. :p

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

This seems pretty good to me. Carpet savers are a must.

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

Too bad you even have to ask the question.

I'd never dream of boarding a boat at a show without the invitation of a sales person. :(

I'm more than content to just have a glance inside from the stairs or platform. If I were seriously shopping, I'm sure I'd be welcome to board with a sales rep.

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

It seems that there are always people with unruly kids showing up that think the boats are just another piece of playground equipment.
Boarding by appointment only seems to work pretty well. That way the sales manager has an opportunity to qualify the serious customer. People that just want to board to let their kids play on it for a while, usually won`t want to make that effort. Then, they are on their way to the next piece of playground equipment. Some people get a little upset but the serious prospects usually understand. Just be diplomatic and polite and let the chips fall where they may.

Roger

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

Robert, I go to several shows a year and take my 3 kids. I fit the description of the worst type of "prospect" at the shows. I have no problem with signs and make sure my kids and I do not have on shoes, or take food/ drinks onto the boats. Cushions are to be crossed on your knees, not your feet. Sold signs (even if fake) may help a little but may discourage someone who thinks they can get THAT boat at a good deal.

A sign stating "Unattended Children and Childish Adults will be confiscated and used for cleaning dirty boats" may help get the point across.

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

Lots of good thoughts here on a very sticky problem. I am thinking of a rope across the steps that say "Boarding By Appointment" "Please see any of our sales associates" Possibly anyone that is offended by that is someone that it doesn't matter if I offend? Tough call.

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

I don't think boarding by appointment should offend anyone.

But I'm sure I'm wrong..... :eek: :D

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

Tough call. I guess you have to draw the line...but where? Would be a shame to lose a customer for a certain reason. On the other hand, alot of people are STUPID and would just walk onto an expensive boat with shoes, food, drinks, etc...

Why don't you look around to what the other dealers are doing at the show. Maybe this can give you a better idea what works and what doesn't. Good luck.

If the crowds are too big to show a prospective client, offer the client a personal viewing of the boat after the show. You will need to have a reason to get the client to your showroom....maybe offer him a dinner or something?

Re: Boarding boats at shows
 

I agree. Anyone that is wanting to spend that much on a boat will appreciate you taking care of the boat, at least IMO.

To me the questions is - why do people come to boat shows? Some to seriously buy, but tons of folks are just looking and it is a way to get out and enjoy yourself in the middle of the winter. I go to a couple shows a year. I average buying every 3-4 years. So do the math. I probably board hundreds of boats for each time I buy. With that, I also fully respect any boat at the show, and treat it as though it was mine, not the dealers.


With that, I think your idea is a good one. Allow lookers to get a close look, but maybe not board. Let those you think have potential to be more than lookers board with a sales person.