Whenever trying to promote an auto repair shop there is no real substitute for word of mouth. Some of the best business is going to come through recommendations from clients that were already serviced. Many auto repair shops will invest in PPC campaigns, SEO, TV ads and more but the first strategies a manager should consider are those that can increase word of mouth referrals.
Through traditional marketing techniques, you convert those that do not know the business. Through word of mouth, you basically end up with clients you had doing the promotion for you. It is quite clear why this is advantageous.
If you want to increase results for your word of mouth marketing campaigns, here are some great suggestions given by Pickerings Auto Service.
Use Email Newsletters
In the modern digital world, these are useful as you try to keep in touch with your current customers. Do not send newsletters that give out specials or discounts. Try to send some emails that will entertain and that will give important information that is of real value. That is going to help much more since content marketing done through email will keep customers engaged while not selling. Content that is useful is going to be appreciated so the reputation of the auto repair shop will increase.
Don’t Forget About “Thank You”
Thanking people for the business is something many auto repair shops forget about or do not even consider. The idea is really simple but if you make it creative, results can be huge. The focus should be on making customers tell friends and family members about the experience they had with the auto repair shop. If you do not know how to thank the customer, just ask for some feedback. The customers will be more than willing to give you ideas or tell you what they liked in the past.
Think Social
It is a shame to see how many auto repair shops do not have a social media presence. This is a huge mistake because social networks are nowadays used in order to get information about various service providers in practically all industries, including automotive. Build strong social media profiles and manage them properly.
Try to share articles that are helpful for people following you on social media. Do not make the mistake of blindly promoting the business. It is always more important to provide value. Just as with the email newsletters, you want to mainly think about offering quality information that is truly useful for the follower.
Ask For Referrals
Although you might think differently, there is absolutely nothing wrong in taking advantage of your current network. As you see customers, let them know you appreciate referrals. Give them business cards and do all that you can to get the customer’s contact information. An email sent can help you and you can always give out something extra if the client refers someone in the future. Something as simple as an Amazon gift card will be enough of an incentive for people to refer you if the services offered were of high quality.