I received a phone call the other day from the YP concerning interior detail pricing. After identifying the exact condition of the interior (filth) with several probing questions, I estimated the price, $145 (reconditioning). The phone went mute for a moment and then I asked, what price were you expecting to pay? She said, but $65 is what everyone else is quoting. Do you feel I understand the condition of you’re interior far better then the others, I asked? She said, yes and when can you do it? Booked!!!
Asking the correct questions
- Thread starter doged
- Start date
Envious Eric
New member
so what were the questions you asked that made you sound more "intune" with her interior that she booked you???
toyotaguy said:
The ones most of my competitors don’t ask.!!!
Most all the competitors don’t ask questions, they give prices.
How did you find me?
What make and model do you own?
Do you have cloth, vinyl, or leather seats?
How long have you had the car?
What is the condition of your interior, stains, etc? Are any red?
Does your interior smell musty or smokey? How would you like it to smell?
Have pets ever been in the car?
What condition would you like to see your interior in?
brwill2005
New member
Those are very good questions. I still believe the best thing to say is "I will be happy to give you an estimate after seeing the interior of your car in person". This is something I need to do everytime myself.
Customers don't phone you to get a clean car, they phone because they have a problem they want you to solve. If you convince them that you understand the problem and that you can solve it, then you have them.
Besides, asking questions is the best way to take control of a conversation... this is all basic sales technique.
Besides, asking questions is the best way to take control of a conversation... this is all basic sales technique.
Brad,That’s absolutely the best answer if you can see the car a.s.a.p. If you have a shop and they have to come to, they may just drive in to your competitor. Not likely but it does happen. It’s just my style to get a yes. I do add, this is a “site unseen quote�. CYOA!!!
Danny, yes this is simple sales techniques that a large percentage of detailers in my area don’t use. Then again they help you visualize the estimate.
Danny, yes this is simple sales techniques that a large percentage of detailers in my area don’t use. Then again they help you visualize the estimate.
Kids screaming in the background is my cue to give a higher estimate to make sure I am covered. 
In addition to what doged posted, I also ask:
When was the car last detailed? Wax?
Any pets riding regularly?
What areas of the car concern you the most?
What are your expectations?
Still, I hedge my bets with the estimate knowing some people's idea of clean would be my idea of a landfill. I also make sure they understand I can't give an exact price without seeing the vehicle in person.
In addition to what doged posted, I also ask:
When was the car last detailed? Wax?
Any pets riding regularly?
What areas of the car concern you the most?
What are your expectations?
Still, I hedge my bets with the estimate knowing some people's idea of clean would be my idea of a landfill. I also make sure they understand I can't give an exact price without seeing the vehicle in person.