Small Businesses are the backbone of our society. Sure it’s easier to build a brand if you’re a big company, but you have something big companies don’t, and that’s the fact you have a small business. Big companies spend thousands of dollars a year to make their company feel and look like a small business. The thing is that a lot of people trust small businesses, not the big competitors. Don’t get me wrong, even if you’re a small business you need to have a brand, something that makes you different from the competitors. So let’s start at the beginning.

1. Define your brand

The customers aren’t going to know your brand if you don’t. This party involves research, research on your industry, services, prices and customers. Your brand should be more than just the name of you shop. Think of it as a person with morals, values, and a purpose. This will help you in the long run when it comes to differentiating yourself from the competitors.

2. Consider what drives your business

Why are you in business? You can probably answer that question pretty quickly but how deep can you dig? In order to establish your brand, you need to know exactly what your customers are coming into YOUR shop for. Are you doing a lot of oil changes? Tires? Engine work? All the above? Take a pen or a pencil and mark a tally for each service you do in a month and you’ll know what you need to promote. 

3. Establish a relationship with your customers

Small local auto shops have an advantage in this category. People tend to go to places around where they live, so there is a high chance that if you do a good job once, they’ll be back the next time. Quality of service is important here, try and get to know your customers, those personal interactions go a long way.

4. Stay consistent

The last thing you want to do is confuse your customers. If you define your morals and values for the shop you can’t change them every few months. Communication is key here. If you plan on changing something make sure you let your customers know. It’s better they hear it from you than someone how might have their facts wrong.

If you want to create the best automotive branding plan, get help. We are experienced and can help you market your shop. Contact us today to get your free consultation!

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