The customer "Walk around"

[rwright]

I also have been doing W/A for a long time. All are correct in pre detail W/A, but just as important is post W/A. When client arrives all is shown as in B4/after. They usually have a better idea of what we've done if they see all the fine details such as jambs, gas door, under hood etc

100% and do this every single time, even when the customer is attempting to rush the process. As stated above, you would be surprised when you do this and the customer had no clue of a scratch or ding and the typical response "I'm glad you pointed that out" usually followed by "is that something you can fix?". Someone also stated to do this in a calm manner, I agree with that 100% as well. These days people have become so sensitive and you honestly can't tell when you may offend someone. Great thread full of great advice.

[embolism]

for cars in rough shape is it a good or bad idea to show someone the colour of their door jambs and compare them to the rest of the car?

Is that setting the bar too high or can the paint generally be brought back to that condition (less RIDS, dents, etc)?

[FUNX650]

I even do this walk-around with family, friends, and our own vehicles....surprises from previous walk-arounds do abound!

One other useful tool that can accompany walk-arounds, even though there might be protestations, is using a camera/video-ing, for a record of the vehicles' conditions...kind of a safeguard, IMO. That, and having them "sign-off" the walk-arounds, before and after.

Thanks again for this thread/postings.

Bob

[mdb917]

There are some great suggestions in this thread!

[alko]

Thanks for the post. I've been contemplating starting a part time side hustle/detailing business. My fiance's neighbors get a chance to see the job I did on my car and now they are asking me to do theirs. I appreciate this.

[Boozman]

I also do this when I drop my car off at the dealership, that way when I pick it up and there is something wrong then we know who's going to fix it.

[My Detailing Guys]

Good information Jim, Thanks

Great post Jim. I think the walk around should also include asking the person about any areas they think require special attention, so you make sure to take care of what is bothering them most, as well as all the other things.

Good idea LegacyGT.