Real Model Interview Episode #16, Chloe Howes, Apprentice Customer Consultant, Kia, Burrows Motor Company

As an apprentice Customer Consultant, what does your role entail?

My role involves me having to interact with members of the public in order to make them feel comfortable and welcomed to the dealership. Organisation is the key to this role as you have to make sure that everything is running smoothly such as appointments and handovers.

Tell us how you went about securing your first sale and how did this make you feel?

I had completed my first sale within 6 months which was a real shock to myself and I think my peers. I had no idea how rewarding it would feel but it's such a big deal to know that you have helped someone make probably the second biggest purchase if their life!

Is there anyone in your team that has personally mentored you and if so how have they supported you throughout your apprenticeship?

I have had a lot of support from my fellow sales team as they are always on hand to help me with certain things whether it may be an online system, some paperwork that needs doing, or how to see the whole sale through. My managers James, Adam and Steve have supported me all the way and without them, I don’t think I’d be as successful as I am today!

You joined the Burrows Motor Company team in 2018, through Gaia Innovation’s Search for a Star programme. During the programme you took part in a work experience week, what did you learn from this that you have since implemented into the workplace?

The work experience week was the best way to help me settle into this new working environment! Meeting everyone and finding the perfect department for myself definitely helped me to get a feel for what it would be like to work here.

What has been the most enjoyable part of your role to date?

The most enjoyable part of my role so far is defiantly the moment when a customer comes to collect their new car! The smile on their face and knowing that they have enjoyed their buying experience makes you realise that you have done a fab job and the customer is happy!

What challenges have you faced so far and how have you managed to overcome them?

I had a bit of a wobble at the start as I wanted to make sure that this was what I really wanted. With support and a helping hand from the people around me, they made me realise that this is definitely what I want to be doing. The moment that a customer walks through the door and you automatically just click- that’s when I know that I’m happy with my role.

What are your career aspirations on completion of your apprenticeship?

I would definitely like to stay within Burrows as this is such a happy and family-like place to work! I want to keep progressing and hopefully start completing higher roles to progress into management. Whilst I’ve got such supportive and kind people around me- I couldn’t think of a better place to work.