Does your auto repair shop run into some seasonal slow downs? For many shop owners, the months of January and February bring some concern as the average weekly car count decreases. Your customers are just finishing up with the holidays and the thought of extra bills… well, you know. This time of year, we plan ahead to assist our clients so their shops stay busy. These are top-quality shops that have a lot of happy customers. So, while they don’t have too much of a down-tick in business, we still create ways to encourage customers to come in. Here are 5 ways you can market your auto repair shop when times are slow.
- Offer a yearly car care club plan for routine maintenance. The plan should spell out exactly what your customers will receive and give them lots of great rewards for their loyalty. Financing the plan is simple. They can pay for an entire year up-front or in whatever interval that works best for you. Not only will it allow your customers to easily budget for their car car expenses, it will also lend some consistency to a percentage of your shop’s income.
- Are you offering seasonal promotions? Some shops don’t like the idea of offering discounts. They feel it lessens their reputations as professionals. This could not be further from the truth. People enjoy the experience of getting a great deal on a service. If a discount brings them in the door, then your team has the opportunity to WOW! them with excellent customer service. There are a number of ways to get the word out on your seasonal promotions. We recommend email blasts, Every Door Direct Mailers, your website and your social media sites. That way you can reach existing and potential customers.
- Seminars. One of our clients hosts BMW and Porsche Car Club meetings and has one of his Master Technicians educate the club members on the latest in automotive technology. Another one holds car care clinics for women. Winter is the perfect time to hold a seminar in your shop – people are looking for something to do!
- Don’t underestimate the power of strategic alliances. Take a look at all the businesses in your area and select one or more with an excellent reputation for customer service. Meet with the business owner and you will be surprised by how easily it is to create a strategic alliance that works for everyone.
- Ask customers for feedback. Slower times are the perfect times to ask customers how they feel about your shop and the services you provide. You may be surprised by what they tell you.
One of the simplest ways to increase your car count is to work with a professional marketer who understands the industry and how to market your auto repair shop. We stand ready to assist you with your marketing so you can concentrate on the other important aspects of your business. Click here to schedule your complimentary 30-minute review now.