Walk-around contest at Friendly Ford measures sales associates’ talents

An unexpected challenge at Friendly Ford turned into a bonus for one sales consultant on the dealership staff.

Competition in what’s referred to as a “walk-around” contest suddenly included three members of the staff randomly selected to show a 2017 F-150 Lariat truck, one of Ford Motor Company’s prize models. Each selected member of the staff was asked to place business cards into a drum, and the three selected were asked to participate in a contest that measured the product knowledge talents of sales associates.

A walk-around contest invites sales associates to show a particular model to a make-believe customer while also being judged by superiors.

Sales consultant Rafael “Raffi” Deleon accepted the challenge and won the top prize of $500 for his efforts to “show” the ’17 F-150 Lariat.

“Our job is to show the features of the vehicle chosen for the walk-around,” said Deleon, who has been in the car business for 25 years. “The Lariat has a long list of features, so we need to be on our toes when the call comes.”

The ’17 Lariat used in the walk-around featured a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine with flex-fuel capability and 375 horsepower and 470 foot-pounds of torque with fuel mileage of 18 city, 25 highway for a combined rating of 21 miles to the gallon.

In addition, the Lariat featured a Pro Trailer backup assist, lane-keeping assist and a high-power, 110-volt power outlets that provide up to 400 watts.

The Crew Cab Lariat was also highlighted by seating for five that included heated and cool front seats and heated rear seats, and a panoramic moonroof.

“Ford’s expertise in the truck business is highlighted by the fact that the F-150 has been the top-selling truck for 40 years,” Deleon said. “In addition, this marks the 100th anniversary of Ford’s selling trucks.”