HE may not be a member of the famous Musketeers but in terms of motoring and sales, Rajesh Mohunlal is at the top of his field.
When it comes to new and used cars, and the purchasing thereof, he’s the man you would want to go in to ‘battle’ for you.
Better known as Raj, he was recently ‘knighted’. In other words, he was invited to join an elite group of sales people in the Toyota group.
Officially, Raj was awarded membership of the Toyota Knights, with all the privileges and responsibilities contained within the constitution of the Toyota Knights, for ‘outstanding performance and exemplary service’.
The award was made at a function at the Wild Coast Sun Hotel and Casino Resort in mid March.
The ‘knighthood’ is not just about sales. Raj was recognised not only for his prowess in the showroom, but in part, also for his involvement in community projects, such as his work with the SPCA, his local temple, and charity organisations.
A further accolade, he also received a certificate of recognition for ‘outstanding sales achievement’ in selling a minimum of 200 new cars, including demos, during 2013.
Raj comfortably exceeded the 200 mark, selling 244 new vehicles. He also sold 80 used cars, an impressive total sales figure equating to almost a car a day.
He is based at Halfway Toyota South Coast’s AutoMark dealership at Oribi Plaza in Port Shepstone, although he also works out of the Shelly Beach premises, and commutes between the two when necessary.
Raj has been with the company since 2007 and has enjoyed remarkable success since making the move from his previous job in the transport division at the regional hospital .
His secret to success is simple. “It’s all about excellent customer service,” he said. “I rely a lot on referrals and so go out of my way to keep the customer happy. It’s very satisfying when a customer sends you an email saying thank you.”
Selling cars truly is his passion. “A customer once came in to buy a van and in the end I sold him a car,” he said with a laugh.
“I like to give my customers the best deal possible. Plus good after sales, that’s crucial. If there’s a problem, I’ll do what I can to get to the bottom of it. We’re a big company with an excellent reputation, we can usually sort it out,” he explained.
When Raj is not selling cars, or thinking about selling cars, he loves spending time with his wife and two daughters. “They’re my pride and joy. I like to get involved in what they’re doing. We also enjoy going to the movies now and then,” he said.
Occasionally though, he admitted he likes to head off for a spot of fishing!
