Mechanics are perhaps one of the few workers that won’t be replaced by AI soon. At least not yet. So, it makes sense that a skilled mechanic might want to monetise their skills and open an auto repair shop and garage. But just because you’re skilled with your hands and know your way around an engine doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be equipped with a keen eye and mind for business. So, today we’ll be filling in the blanks for you and helping anyone with the right tools and the right drive (pun very much intended) learn how to set up and run a successful auto repair business.
1. Create a Business Plan
The foundation of any successful auto repair business is a well-thought-out business plan that includes your goals, target market, and any financial projections. This will be your roadmap to success and should feature several steps you can tick off as and when you reach them, providing a clear roadmap for your business journey and helping you feel as if you’re constantly moving forward. A comprehensive business plan can also be instrumental in securing funding when needed, as investors will almost certainly ask for it before throwing down any investment capital.
2. Licensing and Security
Understanding and complying with the necessary legal requirements and licenses to operate any business in the UK is paramount but when your business includes working on cars, that importance increases tenfold. Choosing the right premises and ensuring they are adequately insured is a good start. Motor trade premises insurance is engineered specifically to protect businesses that work with motor vehicles and should be your first port of call.
3. Marketing and Branding
Building a strong brand identity isn’t just something that major retail brands need to think about; in an increasingly digital world it’s imperative for all businesses to consider how they come across to the wider world. Effective marketing strategies and strong branding are essential to attract and retain customers. A professional online presence, including a well-designed website and active social media profiles, can significantly enhance your visibility and customer engagement and try to ensure you’re promoting yourself in all the right places. For example, places where car owners and petrol heads might congregate,
4. Customer Service
How many times have you asked a friend for a referral when it comes to something as important as your car? That’s why word-of-mouth is so crucial in this business and why exceptional customer service is the best way to ensure those words are favourable. Maintain open communication, promptly address customer concerns and ensure you ask for and act on feedback to really underline your customer service and organically help your business stand out.
5. Futureproofing
While they might make up a small percentage of the market right now, electric cars are going to be the new standard in a few years so ensure you don’t just know your way around traditional cars but electric cars and hybrids too! Even if you have to delay opening your business to take care of the necessary extra training, it’s a decision that will almost certainly pay off in the long term.
