Marketing for mechanics does not have to be focused on coupons and discounts to be successful. New technology and techniques can boost profits and help build relationships with customers.
The aftermarket auto industry is primed for growth. Poor road conditions, aging cars, and production slowdowns are helping drive the industry, according to Precedence Research. The average age of cars on the road hit a record high of 12.2 years in May, further increasing the demand for quality car repair shops. Not only do older cars need more frequent repairs, but customers will also seek quality maintenance to ensure their vehicle lasts for the long haul.
Whether you are just getting your mechanic shop up and running or are already established in your local community, a savvy marketing plan can help you stay a cut above the competition. In the past, auto repair shops relied on a combination of coupons and referrals to help drive new business, and direct mail has remained a tried-and-true tool for small businesses to add customers. However, creating a multichannel marketing strategy makes a huge difference.
Think Outside the Box
If you want to mix it up, here are some creative strategies to rev up profits and add new customers.
Film Video Tutorials. While there are nearly 284 million cars on the road in the United States, at least 39 million Americans don’t know how to change a tire. Filming video tutorials about minor car maintenance tasks can help draw attention to your auto repair shop and encourage people to schedule an appointment for a tune-up. Giving people insider tips can help build trust and increase customer loyalty. You don’t need a film crew to make a great video. Most smartphones have adequate features to film a short video you can post on your social media channels.
Fun Product Recommendations. Let’s face it. There are some wacky accessories out there for our vehicles. Posting a short product review of an LED cup holder light, an air freshener shaped like a cactus, or a crochet steering wheel cover is a fun way to spark conversation. Making it a regular feature will engage followers and provide great entertainment value.
Online Reviews. Finding a trustworthy mechanic isn’t easy. An earlier survey from AAA revealed two out of three drivers do not trust their auto mechanic. To put themselves at ease, many customers read online reviews before they visit a car repair shop. Positive online reviews can help drive traffic to your business. Encourage satisfied customers to write a review of your business or send out a follow-up email requesting a review.
Apply for Local Awards. Everyone likes an award winner. Many communities showcase local businesses with special awards. Make sure to apply for the awards in your area to help your car repair shop stand out from the competition. Awards give your business credibility, which can help drive sales. Local awards are an inexpensive way to generate positive PR without any heavy lifting.
Find a Partner. Consider teaming up with a nearby local business to increase profits. A reciprocal deal will be a win-win for both businesses. For example, give customers at your car repair shop a $5 discount if they show a receipt from the coffee shop down the road and vice versa.
New Mover Marketing. If you’ve had success with direct mail, Our Town America can help you target new residents. New Mover Marketing with us enables you to reach new community members before they form loyalties with competitors.
We have more than 50 years of experience building lists that convert. Each month, Our Town America gets lists of every individual who has filed some sort of address change in the past 30 days. We filter out the duplicates to deliver lists that are 95% accurate, ensuring you get a positive return on investment.
Using our high-quality lists, we send new residents a Welcome Package filled with valuable proven offers. Receiving gift-certificate-style offers is a welcome relief to new residents who are navigating an unfamiliar space and trying to get settled in their homes.
As a bonus, the results of a New Mover Marketing program are easy to track. Our Town America developed the TruTrak® app that allows businesses to scan redemptions at the point of sale or at your convenience. The app is easy to download to a mobile device and simplifies your New Mover Marketing effort.
Build Relationships With New Residents
Click here to learn more about marketing for mechanics and how Our Town America’s New Mover Marketing and direct mail services can help your auto repair shop become a mainstay in the local community.
Brittany is the head of Our Town America’s corporate marketing department. She specializes in digital and print media, social media, and public relations.
