Today’s auto repair customers expect your web presence to be professional, up to date, and easy to find. Unfortunately, many auto repair shops and other small businesses often rely on their Facebook page as the only online representation of their business.
Though it’s crucial for repair shops to have an active Facebook page to bring in customers and build their brand, it’s also important to have a website that establishes you as a trusted and professional source of repairs. Without a fully optimized website, some customers may choose to go with another service provider, a national chain, or a company they feel they can trust more because the company has a strong, modern web presence.
If your business’s website is due for a facelift, here are five ways to improve your web presence and attract new auto repair customers.
1. Consider UX (User Experience) in your web design.
User-driven design is extremely important for business websites because it determines how easy-to-use and intuitive your website is to your visitors. UX web design uses certain principles to ensure users find your website helpful, attractive, informative, easy-to-navigate, and comfortable to use. Some things to consider are an easy-to-locate search bar and contact information, seamless online appointment options, accurate service descriptions, and friendly customer service access via phone, chat, or email.
2. Make sure your website is mobile-responsive.
Responsive websites look great on all devices, not just laptop or desktop computers. In fact, today’s consumers are more often searching from their mobile devices than any other device they own. When it comes to auto repair, your customers are often searching for you on a moment’s notice. It’s crucial to have a website that’s user-friendly and attractive on every device, from a desktop computer to a tablet to a smartphone.
3. Use a content management system.
A content management platform enables you to update your site easily and continue to add valuable, timely content in the form of blogs, FAQs, and announcements. Popular CMS platforms to consider include Joomla, Drupal, and the ever-popular WordPress.
4. Your website should help to build your brand.
Use your website to create a consistent and recognizable brand for yourself in the auto repair community. Hire a knowledgeable designer to create an eye-catching logo for use on your website and other marketing channels. You may even want to consider hiring a copywriter to come up with a slogan and ensure all online communications are consistent and brand-driven.
5. Use several forms of Auto Repair Marketing consistently.
You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars a month on marketing campaigns. However, you should be doing at least 1 to 3 things regularly. For example, you could incorporate any of the following things into your marketing efforts:
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- Develop a strong social media marketing campaign
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- Work with a consultant to improve your SEO
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- Explore Pay-Per-Click advertising opportunities
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- Advertise in your local newspaper or on a local radio station
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- Join your local Chamber of Commerce
- Become a RepairPal-certified shop
Joining RepairPal gives your business a marketing edge by proving to customers that you’re dedicated to quality service. Our business model builds consumer trust by certifying only repair shops that offer fair price estimates, high-quality service, and transparency.
