The VSA's Learning Division
The primary objective of the Learning Division is to help create a respected motor vehicle sales industry and an informed and confident public through education.  This education will occur in a variety of ways and with a variety of constituencies.

The foundation for this learning is the mandatory course for all salespeople and consumer-related business staff in the motor vehicle sales industry.  This course became mandatory with the advent of the Motor Dealer Council (now VSA) on June 1, 2004.  This course recognizes that to be a motor vehicle sales industry professional, one needs to be fully grounded in the laws and regulations that apply to the industry.   Based on models found in real estate, securities, franchising, insurance and various trades and professions, this requirement acknowledges that a motor vehicle is often the first or second most expensive investment made by individuals and families.

A capsule history
Leaders of the industry created strong roots with the Motor Dealer Standards Association, established in 1999. One of the most impressive achievements of the MDSA was a determination to upgrade the professionalism of salespeople. Working with Douglas College and other educators, a two-day course was designed. By 2004 when the MDC began, more than 4,000 salespeople had gone through the certification program on a voluntary basis.  The VSA is building upon the success of those who pioneered these programs, particularly Douglas College and Okanagan College.

Mandatory Certification Course
The Salesperson Certification Course – Level I is the introductory certification course for new motor vehicle salespeople.  It provides a foundation for professional and legal selling through a detailed examination of the Motor Dealer Act, the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, the Sales of Goods Act, Contract Law and other related legislation.  The course outlines the responsibilities of a sales professional through the entire selling process, from advertising to presenting vehicles, negotiating sales and documenting transactions.  The course design encourages a high degree of discussion and is followed by the licensing exam.

Under Development

The Salesperson Certification Course – Level II is an advanced level upgrade program for experienced motor vehicle salespeople.  Building on knowledge of the Motor Dealer Act, the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, the Sales of Goods Act, Contract Law and other related legislation, the workshop challenges the experienced professional to accurately apply the legislation to real life cases.  The course design and industry experience of the participants stimulates active participation and vigorous discussion.

The course is currently offered only as a pilot for veteran sales professionals who took the certification course prior to June of 2004.  Evaluation of the course content and design is encouraged.  In time, all licensed salespeople will be required to take this course.

Future Offerings

Advertising Workshops. A second round of the successful province-wide workshops that followed the publication of comprehensive advertising guidelines in November 2005. The hands-on opportunity to analyze and discuss advertising practices with experienced VSA staff, media and advertising professionals will be expanded. Workshops are planned for early 2009.

Consumer education and awareness
Plans are underway to supplement the existing website consumer resources, enquiry line information and referrals, awareness advertising and consumer outreach activities with new ways to get out the following messages:

• The value of choosing a licensed motor dealer
• The value of working with a licensed sales professional
• How to be an informed and responsible consumer
• The role of vehicle inspections and vehicle history reports

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