Mobile businesses are quite unique in the way they must promote to stay in the customers mind; it takes creativity, savvy planning and a lot of listening to your customers. After years running a franchise system in 23 states with mobile detailing units everywhere. We learned quickly that professional auto detailing is more than just showing up on time, maintaining your customer base and looking sharp. Mobile detailers know you need to create promotions which are exciting. Here are a few ideas for you: Referral Bonuses This program worked very well for the Alpha-Beta supermarket chain and phone giant MCI. Alpha-Beta simply went on TV and asked people to tell a friend, and turned this into a well-known slogan that everyone relates to their stores. MCI went a little further by offering people bonuses for referring their friends to MCI. Everyone has heard about the friends and family program. Referral bonuses in the form of discounts, free washes, and customer awards work very well for us also. Free Washes For Receptionists Offer the receptionist of a large building a free car wash in exchange for telling others about your services and informing them of your scheduled stop at their building. Sometimes one free wash is enough to have them telling everyone about your great service. Sometimes theyll expect it each time you are working at their building. Either way, if their position as the communications link of a large company or building helps get the word out about your services, this referral bonus can pay off. If you dont get many customers after a while, offer the receptionist a discount price for her car wash. After all if she brings you one executive who up-sells himself to a full $200.00 detail, that car wash was well worth it. Customer Awards If a customer refers a lot of clients to your business, you might give them a certificate that entitles them to a free wash, or a certificate they can pass on to a friend, such as a Customer of the Month certificate. Asking For Referrals You should always ask for referrals, as asking for a referral is the easiest way to get them. It is also a great way to build your business. Why wait? Many times, your good customers will be glad to give a referral they may not have thought to give had you not asked. Thanking Customers Always thank customers for a referral. Tell them theyre one of your best customers and thank them very much for their help. This involves them in the growth of your business and will motivate them to continue referring people your way. Make sure that you always have some type of exciting promotion to pitch, something worth talking about and your customers will love it. Everyone wants to save money, everyone wants a bargain, everyone loves the word FREE, after all isnt that your favorite price? Well it is theirs too. Think about it. |
