If you’re like most auto repair shop owners, you know about cars and running your business, but the thought of social media makes you nervous. That’s understandable. There’s a lot going on in the world of internet marketing and social media can become quite complicated. Facebook, Google, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram… It seems like the list in endless. Then, the thought of having to post to all those accounts! It becomes mind boggling.
Some social media experts will tell you that your shop should have all the social media accounts listed above. I disagree. In my experience, the only successful social media accounts are the ones that you will be posting to on a regular basis. Unless you have all the time in the world to post to social media, my recommendation is to stick with the ones that are proven to be most effective. First, and foremost, have a Facebook business page. After that, it’s prudent to post on your Google business page (Don’t forget to post videos to YouTube!) and your LinkedIn profile. Why LinkedIn? Because if you are “doing LinkedIn” right, you should be connected with a lot more people than other auto repair shop owners and mechanics.
People are looking at you through the eyes of your social media accounts, so when it comes to those accounts, here are a few things to remember:
- You have to make a commitment to posting regularly. If someone comes to your Facebook business page and the last time you posted was in 2015 or 2016 (I’ve even seen some accounts that haven’t been posted to since 2012!), it will leave your page visitors with a negative impression about your shop.
- Include a link to your active social media sites on your website and in your email signature line.
- Make sure people will find value in your posts. Mix things up between posts that are informative and fun (80%) with those that are promoting one of your services or specials (20%).
- Show your shop’s personality and let people get to know you. Consumers like doing business with people they know and like. Post photos of big engine repair projects or cool vehicles you’re servicing. Congratulate your employees when they celebrate a birthday or it’s their anniversary working in your shop.
- Engage in the conversation. If people comment on your posts, get involved in the conversation.
- Manage your reviews. If someone leaves a 4- or 5-star review, thank them. Likewise, if you receive a negative review, make sure you deal with it in a manner that is professional (click here to see how to handle negative reviews).
Does social media still seem daunting? We offer a complimentary 30-minute review during which we can talk about all your marketing strategies and how they are performing for your shop. At the end of the review, you’ll find out about how Motorhead Advantage create and manage a personalized social media campaign that will showcase your business without taking up much of your precious time. Click here to schedule your free consultation now.
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