We caught up with our Sales Manager, Matt, for a behind the scenes chat to find out more about his role at Freedom One Life. From meeting amazing customers to understanding the unique ways each person uses their powerchair, he’s dedicated to helping them live the life they choose.
Hi Matt, talk us through what a typical day looks like for you?
As Sales Manager my day can vary a lot, I could be anywhere in the UK doing test drives, delivering new Series 5s or simply giving support to existing customers. If I’m not out on the road then I am working from home, responding to enquiries from new and existing customers and booking in test drives. I’m also constantly in contact with the team at our head office in Glasgow to discuss orders and any custom requests we get, whether that is a walking stick holder, detachable trailer, or even custom paint colours and finishes.
What can a customer expect when they book a test drive with you?
When a customer requests a test drive on our website I’ll get in touch with them to arrange a time, date and place that suits them. The first thing I like to outline is that they are free to try the Series 5 anywhere they want, for as long as they need. I know that buying a new powered wheelchair can be a big decision, so it’s important to be confident in its ability to perform in the places you like to go. I have met a customer at their favourite park, visited the shops with another, and even gone for a dog walk to the beach to let them see how the Series 5 could fit into their life!
I’ll start out with a demonstration, going through all the features and how to use the Series 5. I’ll then let the customer take the reins and try it for themselves, while we chat through their specific needs. Then, at the end of every test drive I like to sit down and go through all the available options to give customers a quote for a Series 5 that is built right for them.
What features are customers always impressed by once they’ve had a Series 5 test drive?
As soon as customers try it they always remark how comfortable and stable the Series 5 feels. Its ability to traverse various terrains whilst still being compact enough to fit indoors never fails to impress. Customers are also surprised to learn that the controller is completely waterproof so they wouldn’t have to worry about getting caught out in the rain anymore!
What do you think sets The Series 5 apart from other powerchairs on the market?
The design has been driven by the lived experience of a powered wheelchair user. Often when showing a Series 5, customers think why hasn’t this been done before, such as building the charger into the chair or having fully customisable driver profiles at the push of a button. The Series 5 design is completely user driven and we listen to feedback from both Alex and our existing customers.
What feedback do you hear most often from customers who’ve purchased a Series 5 powerchair?
When asking for feedback from existing customers, the main theme is how life changing the Series 5 can be. Its reliability gives people the confidence to go where they want and the Series 5 is full of features that make it convenient and easy when they do. Customers have been able to do things they haven’t done in a while, or ever, such as camping or going abroad without having to take a different chair.
What’s your favourite thing about your role?
My favourite thing about my role is all the great people I get to meet and seeing how the Series 5 can change their lives. I always enjoy receiving pictures and updates from customers after they have taken delivery of their Series 5. Once someone has received their Series 5 it doesn’t stop there, I enjoy staying in touch and provide support if needed, from care tips to travel advice.
Outside of work, tell us a bit more about you – any fun facts or interesting hobbies?
I have played rugby since I was seven, and I’m currently vice captain of my local team. I also recently started getting into golf but have a very, very long way to go before my debut at the Ryder Cup! At home I enjoy spending time with my wife and two cats, who love to cause chaos around the house.
If you’d like to try out the Series 5 and do a test drive with Matt, then get in touch below!
