Auto body repair shops are in strong and steady demand. However, attracting new customers to your local auto shop can at times feel like a losing battle when there is other shop competition. Here are five ways auto-body shops can attract and retain new customers, and you can implement many of them right away.
- Coupons & Package Deals
People like deals. Even if the deal is a small deal, people search for the best value for the price. By offering new or existing customers a simple and clear coupon you increase the chances that they will come in the door. You could also offer a flat rate off an oil change or a discounted bundle such as a free car wash with service, and you will often attract new customers just based on the deal. Once they are in the door you can then use other methods (see our blog about loyalty programs) to retain them.
- Clear, Upfront Pricing
When people look for auto repairs they want to know how much they should prepare to pay, even in the worst of situations. Some local auto repair shops lose customers when the price of a tune up is M.I.A. and other services are simply listed as “call for quote.” People’s behavior suggest they will leave your ad, website, or phone call if the price is not shared clearly and upfront. Do not shy away from listing the cost of services out of fear it will scare customers away. Be honest with your pricing.
- Market Correctly
Marketing correctly is often overlooked or underestimated. Simply posting an ad online that says “We Have Great Services” does not speak to the customer who is looking. By having a clear, creative, and strong call to action in their marketing, local auto service dealers can increase their traffic almost immediately. Create clear campaigns, offer newsletter sign ups and discounts, and encourage word of mouth perks to generate steady traffic.
- Get Social
Whether it is social media or social events, being visible in a variety of mediums will draw attention to your auto body shop. Post deals, news, services, even testimonials on a social media page and encourage people to share. If there is a community event, try sponsoring a prize booth, participate in a raffle, or even hold a demonstration booth to educate the community. By being visible you can stand out from the crowd of auto repair shops servicing your community’s vehicles.
- Brand Yourself Correctly
Your shop may have the best deals, service technicians, and tools. But if nobody knows your name or your name is hard to remember, you may be forgotten in the crowd of other shops. If this is the situation you find yourself in, focus on re-branding your name or strengthening your existing brand. By having a trustworthy name and brand, you will attract a range of customers who look for the name just as much as the services offered.
Attracting new customers to any local auto repair shop can feel like a daunting task. With the help of these simple ways to attract new customers the process can be less daunting and more profitable so you can focus on creating and servicing long-term customers.
If money is the only thing holding you back from kick starting your new marketing campaign or re-inventing your brand, call IOU Financial. We offer affordable working capital for auto-body shops that are looking to grow their customer base or take advantage of new opportunities.