Not by a long shot, but the numbers are better.Halfway through 2014, the boat brokerage industry has seen a consistent uptick in sales, but numbers still lag behind 2013 numbers. In January, for example, boat purchases were down 5% compared to a year earlier. But by May, they were just 3% behind. The latest numbers from YachtWorld.com and SoldBoats.com show that June sales were 2% behind 2013 stats. Overall for the year so far, the industry is down 4%, and down 3% in the second quarter of 2014 alone, which is typically the busiest season for boat sales. Interesting, isn't it? We sure think so, especially when looking at POP Yachts' sales numbers year over year. While the rest of the industry is down 2% for June 2014, we're 62% up when compared to 2013, and 1,000% up from 2011! Here's how our numbers stack up:June 2011: 16 unitsJune 2012: 44 unitsJune 2013: 101 unitsJune 2014: 162 unitsEach month, we've been looking at the many reasons that POP Yachts is blazing past the competition, such as our advanced data feeds, investment in increased marketing, ever-growing inventory, outstanding client feedback and our philosophy that we don't get paid unless you sell your boat. There's another key advantage we have over our competition, and that's our people who work tirelessly to keep our sales numbers on the rise. Our staff of 190+ professionals are quick to answer the phone to answer questions or go above and beyond to make the boat buying and selling process a lot less stressful. It's that personal connection to our clients that instills trust and gets the job done. Here are a few examples of what staff members have said about their approach to client interaction:• We demand that people be ethical and that they work as team members in each department to get the job done A to Z, because that's what it takes. -Gordon Wilson• Today's consumers and demanding and knowledgeable. You have to respond quickly and be informative. I think it's pretty much 24-7, not a 9-to-5 job. It's diligence and being available. And if you don't know an answer, get the answer and follow up. -Dean Machikas• I enjoy meeting all these people. I talk to people in California, in Washington and in New York and people down here in Florida. I get to hear all their stories and help them. A lot of people you talk to, they're selling their boat because they can't afford it. I had a stay-at-home mom whose husband had lost his job, and we were able to help her at no cost to her. I love helping people like that. -Darby Sue Zufall• I constantly hear from clients: I've called on four or five other boats, and you're the first one who's called me back. -Jim GradyTo get connected with a POP Yachts representative who'll give you professional, personalized service, whether you're buying or selling, give us a call today at 941-257-0111.Graphic: YachtWorld.com