Some people have a go-to trusted mechanic with good auto repair software that can detect the issue with their vehicle in minutes. Still, most consumers use Google to determine where to take their automobile.
We did the research, and here are the nine most important things you can do to become the neighborhood auto repair shop of choice.
Create your company’s website.
You should get one right now if you don’t already have a company website! The great majority of automobile owners nowadays are under the age of 40, and they only do business with companies they can discover online. The most enticing auto repair service websites include:
- A list of the services that they offer.
- Digital Payments.
- Appointments.
- Invoices.
- Estimates.
- Inspections.
- Contact information is prominently provided (include your location PIN for customers viewing your website on their mobiles)
- Quick load times
- Mobile-friendly designs
- Content that is relevant (think blogs and tips)
- Customer feedback (pro tip: you can import Google Reviews to your website)
The increased traffic can be achieved through local SEO
How likely is it that you will scroll down to the second or third page of Google results when you search for something?
Your website should be at the top of search results when a potential customer searches for “weird exhaust sounds” or “auto shops close to me.” Local Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is what you need. If this sounds too technical, there are tons of SEO professionals out there who can help.
Google says websites with higher rankings are more likely to receive 70% more clicks. This directly impacts the traffic (potential customers), which affects the conversions rate (a prospect clicks on the website, interacts with it, and ultimately becomes a customer).
Ask for reviews
Customer reviews are one of the most important things for running any successful business. They convince potential customers to visit your shop; past customers’ glowing reviews are the most important asset. Positive reviews from past customers on Yelp and Google will help strengthen your brand and improve customer trust.
This only convinces your previous customers to come back and new customers to come to you with their auto repair problems. So you must ask your customers to leave a review on your website or leave a review on your review cards.
Develop partnerships with other local businesses
Like your auto repair shop, small businesses may have to compete with larger corporations in your area. Walmart and Starbucks might have a similar problem with your local cafe or mom-and-pop grocery shop.
You could, for example, establish a mutually beneficial association with the cafe. In return, you would promote the cafe to your customers, and they would receive a discount at the cafe if they showed a receipt from your auto repair shop. Vice versa.
Advertising voucher
Do you want to attract consumers that want the services of a qualified and reliable mechanic? We suspected you were. Coupons for vehicle repair services are a tried-and-true approach to do this.
Free stuff is a great thing!
Coupons (or vouchers) can be cost-effective and effective in getting new customers. They also allow your customers to stay on top of important yet easy-to-forget maintenance services for their vehicles.
Repairs are costly. Auto repairs cost the average American household 1.5 percent of their annual income. That works down to $929 per year for a typical family. Instead of putting off repairs because of the expense, a coupon for auto repair service might make it less difficult for car owners to bring their vehicle into the shop. Furthermore, you have control over the discounts and can ensure that each repair is lucrative.
Offers such as these could also be included:
- Oil change includes a 10-point inspection.
- Safety test and free oil change.
Make use of the most recent automotive technology
Enhance the customer experience in your shop by using Digital Vehicle Inspections software.
DVI provides auto technicians with multimedia (photos, videos) to pinpoint the problem. This will help your customers better understand the process and allow them to make informed decisions about the auto repair services you recommend.
These modern automotive tools can help auto repair shops increase their average ticket size. DVI is one example.
You can purchase such auto repair software with many features in one place, such as motorcycle repair shop software and many more. This will reduce your workload and allow you to focus on bigger issues.
Automated reminders
Have you ever thought that simple reminders could make you more money?
- Your auto repair scheduling software can send automated appointment reminders via email and text to your customers that can reduce customer no-shows and increase revenue.
- Automated reminders to repair estimates that need authorization are sent. This will increase your quote-to-job conversion ratio.
Take your business to the next level by ensuring recurrent revenue from your existing clients.
Reminders for maintenance
You can kill two birds with one by reminding your customers to keep their vehicles in good condition. Customers have more peace of mind while on the road, and so does your shop, which means repeat business is a sure win.
Customers will notice that service reminders are personalized and show you care about their vehicles. This makes you stand out from your competitors. Auto-repair software lets you save maintenance and services and automate follow-up with customers. Even if you forget, customers will still receive reminders.
Loyalty programs
Did you realize that acquiring a new client costs your auto shop five times more than retaining an old one? It only makes financial sense to focus on retaining repeat clients, and one of the greatest ways to do it is through an auto repair loyalty program.
According to research, 79% of shoppers check for bargains in loyalty and reward programs before purchasing. An auto repair loyalty program is an excellent marketing tool for encouraging drivers to return to your business, and it offers a win-win situation for both of you.
For your loyal customers, offer a VIP (or loyalty) program. This will encourage them to use you for all their auto repair needs. Take this example:
- For every five oil changes that are fully paid, you could offer a free oil change
- You could also offer a coupon for free car washing for every $X you spend at your shop. In return, the car wash can advertise your business to their customers.
Conclusion
From everything mentioned above, it is clear how you can grow your auto repair business and how good auto repair shop software can reduce your workload and make your life easier.