How to Grow Your Auto Shop in 10 Ways

As a local auto repair shop owner, it’s essential to stay ahead of the competition and grow your business. One way to do that is by taking advantage of modern strategies, including various digital channels and new technology.

To help you with this, we’ve put together a list of 10 essential tactics uniquely tailored to the auto repair industry. And with Podium’s innovative solutions, you can improve your business efficiency and customer relations even faster.

For example, Podium’s AI BDC helps dealers transform potential interest into concrete actions like booking test drives and scheduling service appointments. 

1. Optimize Your Website for Mobile

Nowadays, most people use their smartphones to search for nearby businesses and services. Consequently, it’s crucial to have a mobile-friendly website to provide an excellent user experience. Ensure that your website is easy to navigate, loads quickly, and offers clear information about your services.

Make your website mobile-friendly to stay competitive and cater to an ever-increasing number of smartphone users.

2. Harness the Power of Podium Reviews

As an auto repair shop, your reputation is paramount. Online reviews play a significant role in attracting new customers, as potential clients often check Google, Yelp, or other review platforms before deciding on a shop. With Podium Reviews, you can easily collect and manage reviews, improving your online reputation.

Podium Reviews can be a great tool for auto repair shops due to its ease of use, automated review collection, and overall ability to boost your business’s reputation.

3. Use Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs)

Digital Vehicle Inspections involve using tablets or other mobile devices to perform and report vehicle inspections. DVIs allow for greater transparency by providing clients with pictures, videos, and detailed explanations of recommended repairs. Clients will confidently make decisions when they understand the services you’re suggesting.

Adopting DVIs is an excellent move as it demonstrates your shop’s modern approach and commitment to transparency and client communication.

4. Offer Appointment-Scheduling Online

Online appointment scheduling allows customers to conveniently book and manage appointments 24/7. It also helps to reduce phone call volume for your staff while providing a seamless experience for your clients.

Providing online scheduling not only streamlines your booking process but also demonstrates your commitment to customer convenience.

5. Create a Loyalty Program

By establishing a loyalty program, you can encourage repeat business and reward your most loyal customers. Offering perks like discounted services or free maintenance checks can build a strong connection with clients and ensure they keep coming back.

Loyalty programs foster long-term relationships with customers while boosting your business’s overall attractiveness.

6. Implement Text Reminder Services

Text reminders are a powerful tool to remind clients of upcoming appointments, ensuring they don’t miss their scheduled services. Simple text messages are more likely to be seen and read than emails and can be easily managed with tools like Podium Texting.

Incorporate text reminders to provide an additional level of professionalism and enhance overall client relationships.

7. Deploy Targeted Local Ads

Local ads on platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads enable you to target potential clients in your area. This customization increases the chances of attracting local clients searching for auto repair services.

Investing in targeted local ads increases visibility and reaches new clients efficiently and effectively.

8. Educate Customers via Blogging

Sharing helpful tips and information on auto repair through blogging helps you establish yourself as an industry expert. This form of content marketing can drive more traffic to your website and improve your online reputation.

Blogging is a way to demonstrate your expertise, generate new leads, and add value to your clients’ experience.

9. Utilize Social Media for Community Building

Social media allows you to engage with your local audience and showcase your business’s personality. Share behind-the-scenes photos, news, updates, and promotions to build relationships and strengthen your online presence.

Use social media platforms to humanize your shop and foster a sense of community with clients.

10. Adopt an Eco-Friendly Approach

With the growing concern for the environment, showcasing your shop’s green practices can help separate you from competitors. By adopting eco-friendly services and practices, you can attract environmentally conscious customers and promote a positive brand image.

Adopt green practices as a way to stand out from competitors and demonstrate your business’s commitment to sustainability.

Growing Your Auto Repair Shop with Podium

By implementing these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to growing your auto repair shop and staying ahead in a competitive industry. To enhance your customer relations and online presence even further, Podium offers a range of comprehensive tools tailored to auto repair businesses. Try Podium for free today. Automate your BDC with AI to dominate the market. Watch a demo today.