If you’re interested in F&I training, the good news is that you’re not alone. There are thousands of F&I professionals across the country who are looking to get better. To get there, there are several different routes to take. Whether you’re looking to start your own business or you’re already a manager, there are several paths you can take to reach your goals. Here are a few of them:
AFIP Certification Ladder
The Association of Finance & Insurance Professionals (AFIP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit continuing education association. Their primary mission is to certify F&I practitioners. They provide a multi-tiered certification ladder that offers a clear career path.
A F&I license is great, but it’s not enough. Having a F&I Certification is a way to show consumers that you’re a knowledgeable practitioner. It also gives you the tools you need to operate within the law.
To achieve your F&I Certification, you need to complete a course and pass an examination. This can be done in-person or online. Some employers cover the costs of the course, depending on the level of certification you wish to attain. There are several different AFIP courses, ranging from a basic F&I course to a management level.
Whether you want to gain an additional level of credibility or improve your skills as a salesperson, the Association of Finance & Insurance Professionals has the resources to help you. They offer study groups and tutoring to prepare you for your exams.
iA American Training Institute
The iA American Training Institute has been a trusted partner of many of the top automobile dealerships in the country. Known for its customer-centric processes, the iA specializes in custom-built curriculum. In addition to offering the aforementioned best-in-class courses, the iA can also provide a variety of consulting services for dealer groups. Whether you are looking for a training program for your employees or a new dealership, the iA is ready to help.
Not surprisingly, the iA is not the only school specializing in F&I training. Other schools may also be of similar size and quality, but not all of them are created equal. A World of Training is one such a company. Its offerings include comprehensive F&I training, sales training, and consulting services. Among the many benefits of joining the iA is the ability to take advantage of the GI Bill, which can be applied to a plethora of courses.
Dealer F&I University
When it comes to training, Dealer F&I University offers something for everyone, from newbies to veterans. They offer online and onsite courses, as well as specialized options for existing employees. As for pricing, they also have a selection of plans to suit any budget. For instance, a first-timer can get started for as little as $198 a month. If you’re looking to upgrade your skills, the monthly rate drops by a few dollars.
The company also has a number of other notable offerings. One of the more interesting is the ACE certification program, which was developed by industry-leading attorneys. It breaks federal regulations into logical doses and helps dealerships maintain professional standards. Plus, the program comes with a snazzy certification badge and a swag bag.
Another impressive feat is the company’s annual review process, which includes a plethora of data points relating to the prior year’s performance. This has the added benefit of making it easier to spot the anomalies in a sea of green.
Career Paths for F&I Managers
If you are looking for a career path, the automotive industry offers many options. From auto sales to finance and insurance, there are plenty of opportunities available. The right information can help you decide which industry is the best for you.
Automotive is one of the hottest industries in the modern world. As more and more people buy vehicles, there are more and more job openings. Many of these jobs require a specific set of qualifications.
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree and some experience in customer service or other sales positions. Employers also prefer candidates with previous management experience.
F&I managers are responsible for making sure customers are satisfied with the products they purchase. They are also required to stay up-to-date with new laws, financing schemes, and the insurance industry. To be a good manager, you’ll need superior interpersonal skills and product knowledge.
There is no shortage of jobs for F&I managers. With a little training, you can take your career to the next level. Whether you work in a dealership or another financial sector, you’ll be able to adapt your skill set to suit the needs of your company.
