Advice is a tricky thing. Often, the person giving the advice has great intentions but lacks situational understanding. So, whether your shop is struggling with insurance companies, acquiring new customers, or upset with the quality of paint, we are here to help with some proven advice.
In no particular order, here are what the best collision shops focus on daily to outpace the competition:
- Focus on providing high-quality work: Providing excellent repair work and customer service is essential for building a strong reputation and attracting repeat business. The fastest way to go out of business or to attract the wrong kinds of customers is to do sub-par work. Sending cars back with streaks, dents, or uneven bumpers is a recipe for bad online reviews and upset customers.
- Stay up to date on industry trends and technology: Keeping abreast of the latest trends and developments in the collision repair industry can help you identify new opportunities and ensure that you are using the most effective and efficient repair methods. The technology that supports collision shops today is light years ahead of where it was just 5 or 10 years ago. Now is not the time to lag behind.
- Build relationships with customers and other businesses: Establishing positive relationships with customers and other businesses in the industry can be a valuable way to attract new business and build a loyal customer base. Sending simple things like text messages, Christmas cards, or even a $5 Starbucks gift card can be a powerful way to create human magic for your shop.
- Be proactive in marketing your business: Marketing your business effectively can help you reach new customers and showcase the services you offer. Leveraging Google, Facebook, and Groupon can be powerful ways to market your business locally.
- Stay organized and manage your finances carefully: Proper organization and financial management are crucial for the success of any business, and this is especially true in the collision repair industry where margins can be tight. Working with a coach at the Automotive Training Institute is a great way to keep your finances top of mind.
There has never been a better time than the present to grow your business. There is a wise proverb that says, “the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second-best time is now.” Now is the time to take advantage of this simple advice to grow your business this year.