Any Marketing Tips

[Tom1uk]

Hi guys,

Myself and my business partner have opened up a motor garage in the Warrington area, about 12 months ago. Since opening we have done well, and are now looking to stabilise our customer flow, as our trade suffers from constantly needing new custom. As if you service someone's vehicle this month you may not see that customer until next year.

I was wondering how other people keep there marketing fresh? As we try to reach as many customers as possible to keep our footfall high. But we believe that people may be getting used to seeing our name now and we just fade into the back ground. Have any other people found a particular marketing strategy effective? and how do you kick start it when you feel it dries up?

Cheers all

 

[liamcbarrett]

hello, have you thought of a website for your company? as many people use the likes of google to search for companies such as 'garages in warrington' with an SEO / optimization package this will allow you to appear on the major search engines and be found by new customers all year round. if this is something of interest to you please contact me on 01325 364 367 and ask for myself Liam. i hope this has helped and gave you a different thought

 

[Mon]

Hi,

a well optimized website is certainly a good idea; perhaps you could also try some of the following:

- discount for repeat customers (e.g. 10%off next service, etc) to encourage customer loyalty
- discount for referrals
- use of social media to engage with customers (perhaps have a youtube channel with simple instructional / training videos including some basic maintenance tips, etc)
- specialise in one particular area (e.g. classic car maintenance) alongside what you currently offer?

best of luck!
m

 

[Scott-Copywriter]

Building up enough repeat custom removes the issue of having to wait so long until they next need you, even if it's a year. However, it does require the investment of time and money.

For example, let's say that you take in two services per week, every week for a year. That's 104 services and 104 customers.

Now if you started doing them in January through to December, then by the time January comes around again the following year, the people from the January of the previous year will need their annual service again. The same goes for the clients from February, March, April and so on.

This means that once you've completed your first full year of sales, the next year will also contain another full year due to repeat customers, as will the year after that. So even though there's a whole gap of a year between services, you're using repeat custom to get regular business.

To make sure that cycle ticks over nicely, you need to provide an incentive for people to keep coming back, so something like a percentage off. However, if you hand over a voucher, also make it clear that you will note their name and reg in a book, so even if they lose the voucher (highly likely to happen over the course of a year) then they can still get their discount.

Also, in your type of trade, word of mouth really is incredibly powerful. People are fully aware of mechanics which overcharge or sell things which you don't need, so a large proportion will seek recommendations first. To help encourage this, do two things:

1). The obvious one: provide an exceptional, fair service.

2). Give all your customers 'refer a friend' vouchers with a discount or offer of some kind. This encourages the person to recommend you more as they feel like they're doing their friend or family member more of a favour than just recommending a good garage alone.

A website is also a good idea, but make sure it has good sales copy on it which makes people realise why they should choose you over your competitors, otherwise it isn't going to do a great deal.

 

[Square Social]

Set up a Facebook and Twitter account and integrate them into your store customer service:

1) Ask customer's to like you on Facebook (offer an incentive of your chosing)
- Once they like you on Facebook, their friends will witness this and you'll get a steady stream of organic growth from the people you want to be connecting with
2) Use Twitter for re-tweets and reach
- Set up a Twitter profile (if you haven't aready) and build a small following by following other local businesses in the area, then ask them nicely to re-tweet the content and deals you post to increase your reach.

Hopefully these tips help a bit

 

[CoretiumMedia]

To add up to everything what was already mentioned consider using google maps and other map applications. As the usage of mobile phones is growing every year (or even month) it would be wise to use it. It is often much easier and faster to look for services on the phone, so ensure that you appear there.

I have read a few industry research articles which proved that marketers should concentrate more on the mobile applications. Also as an employee of design and marketing agency I can tell that almost every clients brief now includes some kind of application or adjustment to mobile phone usage.


Obviously, there are planty of other marketing strategies you can use for promoting your business and for better results you should combine those. Old good flyers always work in a local area and will be a good combination with online activities.

Good luck!

 

[Tom1uk]

Thanks for all the replies people! Just to give you more of an insight in to what we currently do:

We pay to be top of the lists for Google, such as tyres and servicing in our area
We have a Google pin on the maps
We use Facebook a lot
We use leaflet drops as and when we can
We email all nearby businesses and previous customers

From day one we have always tried to offer an after market dealer level quality, fitting quality parts so the job only has to be done once, but keeping the labour charge low so its affordable. This model works brilliantly, but were finding now are awareness is dropping. We have had very few complaints and word of mouth is as stated above our biggest advantage, and this is starting to work.
We offer discounts to repeat customers but I think the refer a friend idea is fantastic and will be looking for a way to implement this.

However after reading the above posts I believe that our website is letting us down, along with any kind of SEO. I have always wanted a website with the right information on that looks clean and professional, like we go the extra mile to make our workshop look as most garages fail on their image. This is an issue as the people we had build the website are obviously not up to scratch with these points so I need to look at some way of getting this done using the current website.

Also the mobile phone compatibility interests me greatly as mobile phones are now more popular than computers, and I want to be sure we make the most of it but I am unsure how to?

 

[CoretiumMedia]

Why not to create an app with tips and advices? Remember that you should provide customers with something of a value to them. Avoid talking about yourself too much when using such a tool. Leave advertising for promotion and use app to entertain people while simply informaing who is provider/creator.

If you would like to discuss some more ideas give me a call on 0207 9545 977 for a free consultation

 

[Scott-Copywriter]

Thanks for all the replies people! Just to give you more of an insight in to what we currently do:

We pay to be top of the lists for Google, such as tyres and servicing in our area
We have a Google pin on the maps
We use Facebook a lot
We use leaflet drops as and when we can
We email all nearby businesses and previous customers

From day one we have always tried to offer an after market dealer level quality, fitting quality parts so the job only has to be done once, but keeping the labour charge low so its affordable. This model works brilliantly, but were finding now are awareness is dropping. We have had very few complaints and word of mouth is as stated above our biggest advantage, and this is starting to work.
We offer discounts to repeat customers but I think the refer a friend idea is fantastic and will be looking for a way to implement this.

However after reading the above posts I believe that our website is letting us down, along with any kind of SEO. I have always wanted a website with the right information on that looks clean and professional, like we go the extra mile to make our workshop look as most garages fail on their image. This is an issue as the people we had build the website are obviously not up to scratch with these points so I need to look at some way of getting this done using the current website.

Also the mobile phone compatibility interests me greatly as mobile phones are now more popular than computers, and I want to be sure we make the most of it but I am unsure how to?

Better sales copy for your website will do the trick comfortably. It's not just about selling your services, but it's also about writing in a style and tone which makes potential customers feel comfortable and safe using you.

The four things people worry about the most in this sort of trade are:

1). People lying about what the vehicle really needs
2). The quality of the parts
3). The quality of the labour
4). Being overcharged

Use the text on your website to overcome these worries through the content and the tonality and you will immediately set yourself well ahead of your competitors.

 

[CustomJewelry]

I just got off the phone with PRWeb and was wondering if anyone has had any knowledge in this area of how well it works? Sound like a viable plan to push media and marketing.

 

[amissryan]

If you are in the marketing than it is very much necessary for you to have knowledge about the marketing tips. Marketing tips give make you aware various this that how you can establish yourself in this field, how to make deal, how to attract costumer and many more.

 

[TamworthCleaningSupplies]

Hi Tom,

A garage by us in Tamworth has a loyality card scheme in place, whereby if you buy anything from them tyres, parts etc.. you will get a stamp on your card and each stamp represents money off your next service or MOT.

Just a thought, hope it helps

Jason

 

[Litherland]

set up a linkedin page,set up a facebook fan page, twitter page (with these social media methods you can put across your personality and interact with new and old customers, keep communicating with them and dont come across too robotic.

leaflet drop with special offers.

put your website on gumtree and craigslist for any offers your doing, put your cars on their that your selling and you can set your location to the northwest.

just some ideas hopefully you might find them helpful

good luck im from warrington way also!

 

[PayPoint net]

Is there anyway you get involved with the community / council with regards to sponsorship to raise your profile? Whether it be by donating something or sponsoring a sports team etc...

Otherwise when I was growing up a good old fashioned free sausage sizzle outside the front of the garage always got attention

 

[I Love Spreadsheets]

I have a similar problem with my business. People will want spreadsheet work doing every 1, 2 or even 3 years and its making sure they come back to me (without thinking) rather than go googling for another expert.

At first I tried to create touchpoints with my clients to ensure I was kept fresh in their memory. I tried newsletters, email shots etc, but none of them worked.

Social media has worked a treat for me. I now have an almost daily contact with my clients, which keeps me in their mind at all times.

 

[Tom1uk]

Thanks for the great responses all! We are currently updating the website with more content and trying to make it more user friendly. We use leaflet drops and this is the single most effective type of marketing we currently commit to, but I think the loyalty cards are a fantastic idea and we are now looking for ways to implement these. I am still curious as to if any of you had any more info on:

SEO - does it work? How much should you be paying?

Google Maps - We have a pin if you Google our name but not if you Google say Garages Warrington, does anyone know how to make this happen?

Mobile Apps - I think these are a fantastic idea as I know my mobile is always in my hand. Has anyone had on made? Or anyone know a rough ballpark figure for cost?

 

[GeorgeM]

"Myself and my business partner have opened up a motor garage in the Warrington area, about 12 months ago. Since opening we have done well."

So how did you get your initial customers ? and have you continued to use that marketing or stopped it ?

 

[Postcardanddesign]

You getting good customers flow since you stabilized your business. and for your asking you need start one policy which make customers satisfaction well it is feed back call where you need to ask them about your service, and if any problem is there then instant solve it in free of cost.. it can survive your customers..

 

[Elliottc26]

In your market, best deal banners and posters work well. For instance, a campaign that says, "Buy 3 tyres, get fourth free" and "Free Oil change with servicing."

Also, advertising these deals in the local papers and on local radio will go a long way too...

You culd also try sales initiatives like "Free Car Check...just drop in!" Then check tracking, exhaust system, tyres, battery, lights.,.

 

[altwebdesign]

If you are doing well then keep doing whats working.

I recall watching Alex Polizzi turn a garage around and she did a number of thigns such as:
Improved the car parking
Improved the look of the waiting area
Gave set prices
Ensure every member of staff new their exact role and could address any customer issues without having to go and ask someone else

It was on BBC2, maybe you can find it online, was a good watch.

Craig

 

[Tom1uk]

We started by writing to all the local companies as well as flyering all the local houses. This still happens on a regular basis, with the flyers and letter changing slightly to keep it interesting. We also make outbound calls to local companies and previous customers as follow ups.

We do offer some offers but I struggle with matching some of the offers out there, as some garages offer stupidly low prices which in my opinion brings the industry down. I had someone the other day with an invoice for a local garage stating they would replace a new clutch for £120, which is ridiculous.

As for the appearance of the garage, we put alot of money into this, all the staff wear branded uniforms, and the waiting area is very much like a fords waiting room, all freshly painted well furnished etc. We also offer what is called a "free vehicle health check" which drums a lot of business up as when the cars on the ramp we find tyres, brakes etc.

But I am now trying to find ways to make sure every possible customer finds us, and we are at the front of as many peoples minds as possible. Increase our reach

 

[kaminiprajapati]

Hi,
If you want to get more customer in your Business then you should promote your company or Business best way by Online Yellow Pages.

Online Yellow Pages are still the best way to advertise, especially for new businesses. You want people to be able to find you. Many people still look in the Yellow Pages when they want to find a business. By Yellow Pages, You can promote your Business easily & get more customers in your business.

 

[FindMyService]

Our website advertises services like yours.
Along with great SEO, a good website and making use of social networking websites.

 

[WebFixer]

Word of mouth is the best, if you can hang on long enough. I wouldn't compete on price. Everyone is doing that and they're all cutting each other's throats.

Compete on quality and maybe speed of service.

Ask on this forum about specific marketing avenues like Y*ll.co.uk and you'll get some considered opinions.

 

[chrisitine]

Referrals is definitely a great way to get results - I would highly recommend that as a route - in fact I'd say it is critical to business success, combined with other online and offline marketing of course.

 

[CREDEMA48]

I can see that you are just a start-up and you are looking to spread your customer base. I agree with what everyone has advised you. Online marketing would be totally helpful and may provide you a tremendous amount of potential customers.

My suggestion would be to start with Social Media (yes, they have said it.) If you and your business partner have your own personal Facebook profiles, any one of you may create a Page and have it promoted to your friends. Both of you may also have permissions to manage the business page.

A business Twitter profile would be necessary, especially when you're on the internet all the time. This gives you the chance to give your "fan base" updates about what's going on. It also provides real time two way feedback with you and your followers.

Although the evident coming of online marketing seem to be really effective to grow a fan base and eventually convert them into customers, if you're not so into the world wide web and its functions to business development, the traditional word of mouth and text messaging promotion may still prove to be effective.

If you need effective business solutions for a sustainable development, let us know. We may be able to help you.

 

[Tom1uk]

Hi,
If you want to get more customer in your Business then you should promote your company or Business best way by Online Yellow Pages.

Online Yellow Pages are still the best way to advertise, especially for new businesses. You want people to be able to find you. Many people still look in the Yellow Pages when they want to find a business. By Yellow Pages, You can promote your Business easily & get more customers in your business.

We are currently advertising with Yell on-line at the number one position, but I have yet see all but two customers come from this compared to the incredibly high price they charge.

We do use social media, including a Facebook page, group and user account. Aswell as a twitter page that integrates into the website as a feed on all pages. But one thing we do struggle with is getting the people on our social media sites, to interact with us. So it is difficult to see if this is actually helping sales.

 

[paulstewart64]

Using mobile phone technology is becoming a very interesting area in marketing.

Tom has certainly done more than most in his marketing so give yourself credit here.

There are a number of aspects regards using mobile phones in your marketing.

1) Ensuring your website can be read from a mobile
2) Using text technology as a method of communication. This can be as a service aid i.e. "your car is ready for collection" type message, to confirmation of the date of a service or as a reminder that a service is due, or as a marketing method e.g. a refer a friend message.
3) Using QR codes on your marketing pieces which can link to a specific page on your website with an offer, or to your home page. Usually, they are linked to an offer. QR codes are now becoming more popular.
4) Creating an free app, although this would need a lot more thought regards usage.

I hope this helps

 

[WebFixer]

We are currently advertising with Yell on-line at the number one position, but I have yet see all but two customers come from this compared to the incredibly high price they charge.

The consensus on this forum is that they're a bit of a rip-off.
http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=site%3Awww.ukbusinessforums.co.uk+yell

A guy I worked for previously had the same experience.

 

[paulstewart64]

Tom

PM me if you don't mind as I live in Warrington area and could always use a good honest garage.

Paul

 

[Phoenixflyhigh]

Hello Tom,

You are right, you dont only need a good website but a complete package. You need some one who has prior experience in developing, maintaining and marketing such websites and businesses. Please feel free to contact my good friend at +357-977-95114, Sarvo is his name. He has been running this business since 2006, you could ask for reference if you like. He deals with clients from UK, US & all over Europe. His company provides SEO, Marketing, development and provide VA's for support.

Hope this help...

All the best

 

[Marco Casario]

I can't say I may have a great answer to your question but I can say that I have a great potential source of answers to your it. The Customer Magnet by Michael Cheney attempts to help the modern enterpreneur on the subject of Finding, Attracting and Keeping Customers for Life.