We’ve all been told that social media is important, but many shop owners believe only millennials use it. At this point, social media is being used by all generations to keep up with what is going on in the world, and it is a great place for businesses to spend time advertising on. If your auto shop is not already on social media, this is your invitation to the party.

DID YOU KNOW:

• 83% of Americans have a social media account.

• 48% of Americans have interacted with companies or institutions on at least one social media network.

• 41% of Americans say it’s important that the institutions they engage with have a strong social media presence.

Like email, social media is a great way to stay top of mind with your customers. Because you are able to post on social media frequently, it is a marketing tool that should not be passed up. Consider these social media benefits below:

1. It makes it easier for customers to find you.

Your potential customers are on social media. They expect you to be on social media too.

2. Build an online reputation.

Because social media is more casual than your website, it is a great place to show your auto shop’s personality while nurturing a conversation with current and potential customers.

3. Increase your website’s traffic.

If you constantly post content on your social media channels, users will click through to your website increasing your website traffic. If users find your content beneficial or entertaining, they will also share your posts so their friends and followers can see your content – further increasing your reach.

4. Online reviews.

Social media is another forum where users can post reviews of your company. As always, make sure to monitor your reviews and respond accordingly.

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube… The List Goes On and On!

While there are numerous different social media channels available today, as an auto repair shop we recommend that you start with business accounts on at least Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. These channels are great places to post all of the fresh content that you are updating to your website. By posting this content you will increase the amount of clicks to your website, once again extending your online reach.

EXPERT TIP: Remember those coupons that we talked about earlier? Social media channels are a great place to run promotional campaigns!

This blog post is part six in our “Local Online Marketing Planning” blog series. If you missed part one, two, three or four, click below to read them now:

Part 1: Use Your Website to Make a Lasting Impression

Part 2: Optimize Your Auto Repair Shop with SEO

Part 3: Build Your Online Presence with New Content

Part 4: Online Reviews: The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly 

Part 5: Use Email Marketing to Stay in Touch with Customers

Do you want to grow your shop?

Scan your website today for a full report that will provide insight into how you can find more customers!