Last year alone the motor industry saw over 1.46 million repairs, clearly demonstrating that businesses are picking up rapidly after a slump throughout the height of national Covid-19 restrictions.
However, making a living as a mechanic – and standing out from the crowd – is becoming increasingly difficult in such a saturated market. In this guide, we’ll offer a few tips on how to improve your sales and retain customers for your auto repair shop. And if you want to know how the pros strengthen their online presence, check out https://searchinitiative.net/hire-seo-expert/.
1. Start a website with a blog
Never underestimate the importance of building a strong online presence.
Through an engaging website with a straightforward user experience and strong SEO value, you’ll be able to boost organic trade – meaning customers will be more likely to book through your website.
On your website, you could also include a gallery with images of repairs you’ve completed, alongside a section dedicated to customer testimonials. Use relevant words and phrases to increase your chances of being near the top of the list on Google and other search engines.
2. Form business partnerships
Partnering with other local enterprises could be a fantastic way to boost your business and expand your customer base. You could leave attractive posters and flyers in their premises to catch the attention of their customers, and in turn, advertise theirs in your repair shop.
It only takes a prospective customer to have a quick conversation with someone they trust to be convinced to try your services. Being a successful mechanic is all about building a reputation, and it’s much easier to do this through your community.
3. Use social media
Using social media for marketing purposes is almost essential when you’re catering for a modern market. Whether you post photographs of the cars you’re working on or a weekly special post with your top tips for car maintenance, it’s important to think of ways to generate interest.
Popular social channels including Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok will be the first port of call for many of your prospective customers, so it’s important to get your name out into the metaverse.
4. Ask customers to write reviews
If you’ve gone the extra mile to ensure that your customers have a positive experience from start to finish, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t ask for feedback. Showcasing a collection of positive feedback will only encourage more business, and with 90% of shoppers using product reviews to guide their decisions, it’s a no-brainer.
5. Focus on customer experience
Making sure that your clients receive exceptional customer service is paramount if you’re eager to retain repeat customers. Why not install a coffee machine for customers to use while they wait?
Whether you focus on a warm, friendly greeting at reception or providing regular updates throughout the repair process, there are plenty of opportunities to make your service memorable for all the right reasons.