Alphera launches IMI backed F&I sales training programme

Alphera Financial Services has launched three IMI-backed Quality Assured Programmes (QAPs) to foster high standards in the sale of finance and insurance (F&I) products.

They form part of Alphera’s new Finance and Insurance Accreditation Pathway developed in partnership with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).

The QAPs are designed for F&I sales specialists and dealership business managers, providing a training platform to promote high standards. Participants who successfully complete a QAP will receive an IMI-certified qualification.

Spencer Halil (pictured), director of Alphera Financial Services, said, “Consumers are more alert than ever to the risks of being sold an inappropriate finance product, and the motor finance sector is facing more FCA scrutiny to ensure customers are treated fairly.

It’s vital that staff responsible for F&I sales at every level in the business have the skills and knowledge to present products in a professional and transparent manner.

“Launched in partnership with the IMI, these programmes provide a platform from which F&I sales specialists can improve their confidence and skills, and ultimately gain official IMI accreditation.”

The three new QAPs include: Funding Essential Skills; Selling to the Business User and Developing the Manager.

• The Funding Essential Skills programme is aimed at vehicle sales executives, offering a combination of theoretical and practical training methods to help participants understand the various consumer funding products and the role of finance in the current car market
• The Selling to the Business User programme aims to improve business managers’ knowledge of F&I products targeted at business customers, and build on the skills necessary to sell these products effectively and professionally
• Developing the Manager is also for business managers, and is focused on the development of soft skills to improve team performance and develop greater interpersonal skills.