The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast

Welcome to another episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, hosted by Brian and Kim Walker! Today, we have a very special guest, Michael Doherty, who was our exceptional service advisor at Peak Automotive in Apex, North Carolina. Michael has been a pivotal figure in our journey, and we are thrilled to share his insights on customer loyalty and retention. He’ll discuss his unique approach to building lasting client relationships and the importance of genuine care and transparency.Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)WorldPac - https://www.wtitraining.com/Worldpac STX - https://automotivetrainingevents.com/event/stx/Traver Technologies: https://traverconnect.com/ShopWare - https://shop-ware.com/How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com 

Customer loyalty programs are crucial for retaining clients in the auto repair industry. On the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, hosts Brian and Kim Walker explore this topic with Joe Schindler and Jeff Rudnick. Joe, a shop owner, shares his experiences with loyalty programs, while Jeff from Pit Crew Marketing offers insights on how these programs can significantly benefit automotive shops. This discussion is part of their ongoing series on customer retention. They highlight how personalized rewards, first impressions, and community involvement can build stronger customer relationships, encouraging repeat business and long-term loyalty. These strategies significantly enhance customer satisfaction and drive business growth.Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Pit Crew MarketingSchindler's GarageSchindler's Garage - see loyalty program postsHow To Get In Touch With The GuestJeff Rudnick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-rudnick-aa611831/Joe Schindler : https://www.facebook.com/schindlersgarageShow Notes with TimestampsThe introduction (00:00:03) Introduction of the podcast episode and the topic of customer loyalty programs.Jeff's background in Hawaii (00:01:03) Jeff's background in Hawaii and the discussion about his current location.Defining customer loyalty (00:04:19) Discussion on the definition of customer loyalty and how it is measured.Earning trust and loyalty (00:06:01) The importance of trust in earning customer loyalty and the significance of knowing the customer's intent.First impressions (00:12:00) The impact of the first impression on building customer loyalty and the significance of creating a welcoming environment.Last interaction and lagniappe (00:18:05) The importance of the last interaction with the customer and the concept of providing a little extra (lagniappe) to enhance the customer experience.Community involvement and charity events (00:20:34) The role of community involvement and charity events in creating customer loyalty and building relationships.These are the main topics covered in the podcast episode transcription segment, organized in chronological order with their respective timestamps.Community Involvement Charity (00:22:26) Shop owner's initiative to involve customers in community charity, raising funds and providing incentives for customers.Supporting Little League Teams (00:23:20) Discussion on sponsoring little league teams, the impact on the community, and the importance of community involvement.Seizing Opportunities (00:24:29) Encouragement to shop owners to seize opportunities, think creatively, and take advantage of moments for business growth.Solving Real Problems (00:25:44) Emphasizing the role of marketing in solving real challenges for small businesses and making their lives better.Involvement in the Community (00:27:31) Discussion on the importance of being involved in the community and creating a sense of belonging, impacting marketing positively.Connecting with Customers (00:28:36) Emphasizing the need to connect with customers in a meaningful way, beyond traditional loyalty programs, and the impact on advertising effectiveness.Fundraising Logistics (00:29:46) Exploring the logistics of fundraising, including tools, graphics, and collaboration with marketing companies for seamless integration.Using Rewards for Community Programs (00:36:29) Discussion on customers choosing to use rewards for community programs, the intrinsic value, and setting up guardrails for giving.Launching Shop Programs (00:41:39) The process of launching shop programs, integration with shop management systems, and activating accounts based on customer history.Service Advisor's Role (00:45:37) Reference to a previous episode discussing the service advisor's role in customer retention and the impact of the 1-to-1 service advisor-technician ratio.Joe's thoughtful gifting (00:46:31) Joe explains his thoughtful and considerate gifting strategies to connect with clients and nurture relationships.Partners with systems and processes (00:47:22) Joe emphasizes the importance of having partners with efficient systems and processes to ease the burden on business owners.Inexpensive customer gifts (00:48:37) Joe shares his inexpensive yet impactful gift ideas for customers, including hot chocolate mixers, cookies, and personalized items.Quality over quantity (00:51:20) Joe discusses the significance of giving high-quality, thoughtful gifts over cheap trinkets and the impact it has on customers.Building customer loyalty (00:53:17) Joe emphasizes the importance of little gestures and thoughtful gifts in building customer loyalty and creating a positive impact.Conclusion and contact information (00:54:02) The hosts express gratitude to the guests and provide their contact information for listeners to get in touch.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com 

In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, hosts Brian and Kim Walker are joined by Rena Rennebohm to discuss the crucial role of service advisors in customer retention. Part of a customer retention series, this conversation highlights the importance of tailored, one-on-one service advisor training. Key topics include the shop owner's role in setting expectations, the benefits of a one-to-one advisor-to-technician ratio, and common mistakes in advisor interactions. Rena emphasizes the need for clear communication, empathy, and consistent follow-up to build trust and enhance customer loyalty, ultimately driving better business outcomes.Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Empower Your Advisor: empoweryouradvisor.comHow To Get In Touch With the GuestRena Rennebohm AAM : https://www.linkedin.com/in/rena-rennebohm-aam-49aa1835/Show Notes with TimestampsThe role of service advisors (00:00:10) Discussion on the importance of service advisors in customer retention and the start of the interview with Rena Greenbaum.Rena's journey into service advisor training (00:01:10) Rena's transition from being a service advisor to becoming a trainer and her approach to one-on-one training.The impact of shop owners' vision (00:04:53) The significance of communicating the shop's vision to service advisors and aligning it with customer expectations.Building trust and communication (00:08:28) The role of service advisors in building trust through clear communication and setting expectations with customers.Creating a raving fan experience (00:11:14) The importance of having a clear process and expectations for service advisors to create exceptional customer experiences.The technician's happiness (00:15:33) The impact of a supportive service advisor on a technician's thoroughness and customer communication.Creating a raving fan experience (00:16:42) The positive outcomes of taking time with customers and creating loyalty through thorough communication.Advisors' extra level of communication (00:17:03) The importance of personalized communication and setting expectations with customers to build a positive experience.RepairPal's mission (00:18:34) Promotion of RepairPal's mission to put trust back in auto repair and its benefits for shop owners.Building trust through communication (00:19:43) The impact of spending time with customers and building trust through clear communication and thoroughness.Understanding and confidence in car repair (00:21:28) The importance of explaining car repair in understandable terms and building confidence in customers.Communication methods and customer loyalty (00:22:22) The impact of communication methods on customer loyalty and the value of phone calls in building relationships.Coaching for shop owners (00:23:21) The role of coaching for shop owners in improving business and customer relationships.Improving advisor-shop owner relationships (00:27:33) The importance of shop owners setting up advisors for success and seeking coaching for business improvement.Advisors' role and responsibilities (00:29:03) The responsibility of shop owners to set up advisors for success and the importance of following processes and policies.Retention starts with communication (00:30:04) Discussion on the importance of clear communication and setting expectations for customer retention.Common service advisor challenges (00:31:07) Identifying common issues such as lack of empathy, rushed communication, and setting specific update times.The controversial "just say yes" approach (00:32:45) Debate on the idea of saying yes more often to customers and the missed opportunities of unnecessary nos.Transitioning from no to yes (00:34:33) Challenges of changing the approach from saying no to finding ways to say yes to customers' requests.Hiring service advisors (00:37:27) Qualities to look for in service advisors, the hiring process, and the importance of involving the existing staff in the hiring decision.Finding potential service advisors (00:40:43) Discussion on professions that translate well into service advisor roles, such as hospitality and hotel management.Final advice and contact information (00:41:04) Encouragement to consider adding more advisors and providing coaching or training, along with contact details for further inquiries.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com 

In this episode, Brian and Kim kick off a series on retention marketing, focusing on how auto repair shops can utilize Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to enhance customer loyalty and communication. They are joined by Greg Rainville from Steer and Chris Enright from Enright Automotive, who share their expertise and experiences.Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)https://www.pendo.io/https://steercrm.com/ How To Get In Touch With The GuestGreg Rainville : https://www.linkedin.com/in/grainville/Chris Enright : https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-enright-4674302ab/Show Notes with TimestampsThe introduction (00:00:01)Introducing the topic of retention marketing and the guests for the episode.Role of CRM in retention marketing (00:02:10)Exploring the role of CRM in retention marketing for auto repair shops and its unique aspects.Implementing CRM in the business (00:04:04)Reasons for implementing a CRM in the business and the benefits of CRM in customer communication and appointment reminders.Effectiveness of CRM in customer communication (00:05:50)Comparing traditional methods of customer communication with the capabilities of CRM and its effectiveness.Key features of CRM (00:08:50)Discussion on the essential features of CRM, including filtering, appointment reminders, and Google reviews.Impact of Google reviews and content (00:12:13)Exploring the impact of Google reviews on customer trust and the importance of customer content in reviews for driving more business.The importance of digital processes (00:14:51)Discussion on the impact of digital processes on customer experience and expectations.Challenges of traditional methods (00:15:21)Comparison of traditional handwritten methods with digital processes and the challenges faced by shops still using old methods.Resistance to change (00:16:31)Observations of resistance to digital inspections and modern CRM systems among some shop owners.Retention marketing (00:17:16)Importance of retention marketing and strategies to keep customers engaged and loyal.Effectiveness of customer outreach (00:18:49)Discussion on the frequency and methods for reaching out to customers to maintain brand loyalty.Benefits of RepairPal (00:20:52)Exploration of how RepairPal can introduce shops to new customers and build trust.Personalized messaging impact (00:21:16)Impact of personalized messages and the importance of keeping customer communication personal and local.Measuring CRM effectiveness (00:25:58)Methods and importance of measuring the effectiveness of CRM-driven marketing campaigns.Attribution and analytics (00:26:56)Importance of attribution reporting and analytics in evaluating the success of marketing campaigns.Testing and training (00:28:48)The significance of testing different messaging and the need for training to effectively utilize CRM tools.Training and Demo (00:29:42)Discussion on the training phase, using demos, and getting familiar with the CRM platform.Software and Subscription Fatigue (00:33:23)Addressing concerns about managing multiple software subscriptions and the importance of investing in a CRM.Implementing and Managing CRM (00:33:52)How CRM companies like Steer make it easier for people to implement and manage their software, including live support and user-friendly features.Benefits and Results of CRM Usage (00:35:16)Discussion on the benefits and results of using a CRM, including customer retention, tracking return on declined repairs, and scheduling efficiency.Future of CRMs (00:38:40)Insights into future CRM developments, including improvements in scheduling, voice over IP integration, and telematics for fleet vehicles.Utilizing CRM and Book Recommendation (00:42:11)Plans for further utilization of the CRM, including hiring someone to delve deeper into the data and analytics. Recommendation of the book "Buy Back Your Time."Over Texting and Campaign Mistakes (00:43:42)Chris discusses the mistakes made in over texting and not setting an end to campaigns, affecting results.Balancing Innovation and Issue Resolution (00:44:54)Greg raises the question of how CRM should balance innovation and addressing current technical issues and customer feedback.Feedback and Continuous Improvement (00:45:23)Greg emphasizes the importance of seeking feedback from shop owners and constantly improving the CRM based on customer input.Engagement with Software and Onboarding (00:47:42)Greg stresses the significance of investing time and effort in onboarding and continuously engaging with the CRM software.Commitment to Seeing Through Implementations (00:48:16)Kim discusses the human tendency to feel a sense of completion after signing up for a service, emphasizing the need for commitment to see through implementations.Contact Information for Guests (00:49:26)Greg provides contact information for those interested in learning more about steer, and Chris shares his social media handles for further engagement.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com 

Want to create content that really connects with your audience? Learn how to identify what your customers need, personalize content from your shop, and tap into local community insights for better engagement.We'll share practical tips on using Canva, planning your content calendar, and driving more traffic to your website. Plus, discover strategies to promote your brand, enhance your shop's culture, and create SEO-friendly content.Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your content strategy and see amazing results. Tune in now and start making content that truly connects!Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)They Ask You Answer - https://marcussheridan.com/they-ask-you-answer/Show Notes with Timestamps[00:00] Introduction and SponsorIntroduction to the episodeMention of RepairPal as the sponsorOverview of the topic: Creating great content for automotive repair shops[02:00] Understanding Your AudienceImportance of knowing your audienceFocus on the needs and questions of the audience[04:30] Sources of Content IdeasUsing service advisors' and technicians' FAQsRecording questions for content ideas[07:00] Book Recommendation: "They Ask You Answer"Mention of Marcus Sheridan’s bookBenefits of reading the book for content ideas[09:45] Types of ContentVideos: Short and informativeBlogs: Detailed written contentSocial Media Posts: Engaging with the audience[13:30] Practical Tips for Content CreationUsing Canva for creating graphicsPlanning content in advanceRegular features like "Tech Talk Tuesdays"[17:00] Community InvolvementSharing content from local clubs, chambers of commerce, or community groupsHighlighting customer reviews[19:45] Company Culture and Team AchievementsImportance of showcasing company cultureHighlighting team achievements and events[23:00] Engaging with the CommunityJoining the Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Facebook groupSharing ideas and successes within the community[26:00] ConclusionInvitation to email feedback and content ideasMention of other shows on the Aftermarket Radio NetworkEncouragement to tune in next weekHow To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com

When looking to enhance your auto repair shop's visibility, promotional products can make a significant impact. In this episode, host Kim Walker welcomes Megan Romano, owner of Romano Promo. Megan shares her journey into the promotional products industry and underscores the importance of having a strategic plan for their use.She also highlights the benefits of working with local distributors for personalized service, the significance of diverse apparel options for team members, and the value of unique, high-quality promotional items. Join us as we explore how these strategies can elevate your business and strengthen community ties.Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Romano Promo’s websiteRomano Promo's Automotive Shop - just for shops!How To Get In Touch With The GuestMegan Romano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-romano-5a110228b/ Contact info: https://romanopromo.com/contact-usShow Notes with TimestampsIntroduction (00:00:11) Introducing the podcast and the topic of promotional products.Meeting at the Chamber (00:01:18) Discussion about meeting at the Chamber of Commerce and the importance of community involvement.Locally Owned Tangy Project (00:03:42) Discussion about the locally owned Tangy project during the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact.Megan's Background (00:08:50) Megan's background and how she got into promotional products.Promotional Products for Auto Repair Shops (00:15:51) Tips for independent automotive repair shops on using promotional products effectively.The importance of planning and knowing your audience (00:16:55) Emphasizing the need for planning, understanding the audience, and avoiding rushed decisions in marketing.Promoting trust in auto repair (00:17:45) Acknowledging RepairPal's mission to build trust in auto repair and the benefits of being part of their trusted network.Understanding the audience in marketing (00:18:45) Highlighting the significance of knowing the target audience, particularly focusing on female customers in the automotive repair industry.Quality over quantity in promotional products (00:20:32) Stressing the importance of investing in high-quality promotional products that reflect well on the brand, rather than opting for mass quantities of cheap items.Connecting emotionally through promotional products (00:27:36) Exploring the emotional impact of promotional products on both the shop owner's pride and the end user's connection and happiness.Benefits of using a local promotional product distributor (00:29:38) Explaining the advantages of working with a local distributor, including personalized service, expertise in product selection, and the ease of the process.Local promotional products (00:33:16) Discussing the benefits of working with local businesses and how to find them through the chamber of commerce.Importance of samples (00:37:14) Emphasizing the value of requesting and utilizing product samples before making a purchase.Understanding setup fees (00:39:17) Explaining the purpose and occurrence of setup fees for specific product artwork and decoration methods.Additional fees and artwork requirements (00:42:25) Detailing additional fees such as PMS match fees and discussing the need for vector artwork for printing.Innovative promotional products (00:44:36) Encouraging the use of unique materials and designs for promotional products to stand out from the competition.Final tips and online resources (00:48:05) Offering advice on selecting useful, interactive, and quality products, and providing information on accessing their online shop for automotive products.The smp closet (00:49:22) Discussion on providing budget for team members to choose conference attire, emphasizing individual preferences.Customized Apparel (00:49:41) Importance of offering varied apparel options for team members to feel comfortable, confident, and represent the company well.Local Community Connection (00:51:21) Expressing gratitude for connecting with the local community through the guest's presence on the podcast and acknowledging listeners' support.Podcast Conclusion (00:52:27) Closing remarks, promoting the podcast, and encouraging feedback and engagement from the audience.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com

When choosing a marketing company to market your auto repair shop you may find yourself deciding between a local marketer in your hometown or an auto repair marketing specialist whose office is halfway across the country.Which one should you choose? There’s no wrong answer. But as agency owners who used to be local generalist marketers and now specialize, we know both sides of the coin. Today we’re going to give you an unbiased look at what factors you should be using in the decision-making process.Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)They Ask, You Answer - https://marcussheridan.com/they-ask-you-answer/Show Notes with TimestampsMeeting face to face and building relationships (00:12:20) The importance of in-person meetings and building strong relationships with the marketing company.Pandemic's impact on remote meetings (00:13:15) The shift to remote meetings due to the pandemic and the realization that effective communication can still be achieved from afar.Benefits of in-person interaction (00:14:21) The advantages of in-person meetings, including the ability to connect on a personal level and fully understand the products or services offered.Meeting Preferences (00:14:26) Discussion on the shift from in-person to virtual meetings and the impact on relationships.Industry Knowledge (00:19:30) The importance of understanding industry-specific acronyms, terminology, and business practices for effective marketing.Local Knowledge (00:25:54) The significance of understanding local events, culture, and geographic factors for targeted marketing strategies.Specialist vs. Generalist Agency (00:25:45) Comparison between the expertise of a specialist agency and the adaptability of a generalist agency in marketing.Local vs Specialist Agencies (00:29:23) Discussion about the advantages of local agencies and specialist agencies in terms of knowledge and time investment.Overall Results (00:30:09) Comparison of overall results between generalist agencies and specialist agencies, focusing on the knowledge and experience in a specific industry.Case Studies (00:31:48) Case studies and examples of how local knowledge and specialty agencies can impact marketing results, with specific examples from the automotive and HVAC industries.Facebook Group Invitation (00:41:10) Invitation to join the Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Facebook group, emphasizing its active and informative nature.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com 

When it comes to marketing there’s an order to things. You want to build on a solid foundation. You shouldn’t just focus on the marketing tactics you are most interested in, but rather what is most important to the business’ survival first, then long-term growth, and then thriving as an empire.It’s not so different from the basic needs of a human, and that’s the comparison we’re making today. So listen in to hear an interesting take on how you can use Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to determine what you should be doing in your marketing based on the current position of your business.Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Blog: Walker’s Hierarchy or Marketing NeedsShow Notes with TimestampsWalker's Hierarchy of Marketing Needs (00:00:10) Brian introduces the topic and mentions the episode's main focus.Introduction to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs (00:00:52) Kim expresses skepticism about relating Maslow's hierarchy to marketing.Matt Fangio's Influence (00:02:30) Brian credits Matt Fangio for the idea and discusses his intelligence.Understanding Maslow's Hierarchy (00:03:40) Kim expresses initial skepticism, and Brian explains the need for thorough research.Value of Maslow's Hierarchy in Marketing (00:06:21) Brian realizes the practical value of Maslow's hierarchy for evaluating marketing strategies.Comparison of Basic Business Needs to Maslow's Hierarchy (00:09:27) Brian compares basic business needs to Maslow's hierarchy of needs.Importance of Google Business Profile (00:11:59) Brian emphasizes the importance of a Google Business Profile for any business.Website as Marketing Hub (00:13:11) Brian discusses the significance of a website as the central hub for marketing efforts.Building Your Brand (00:15:04) Discusses the importance of building an email and texting list, creating a separate podcast, and the significance of having a website.DIY Website Building (00:16:00) Emphasizes the option to build a website using platforms like Wix or Squarespace, and the importance of eventually investing in a professional website.Social Media Pages (00:16:33) Discusses the importance of creating and regularly posting on social media pages, and the role they play in building trust and familiarity with potential customers.Safety and Security (00:18:53) Relates Maslow's theory of personal security to the importance of reputation in business, and introduces the topics of reviews, content marketing, and search engine optimization.Reputation and Reviews (00:20:25) Discusses the significance of good reviews in establishing trust and reputation, and the role of CRM systems in managing reviews.Content Marketing (00:23:36) Emphasizes the importance of businesses being media companies first and creating content to establish trust and thought leadership.Search Engine Optimization (00:27:00) Explains the importance of being found online through SEO and Google Ads, and how these strategies contribute to driving business to the shop.Issues with Marketing (00:29:17) Discussion about not being overwhelmed by marketing tasks and taking it step by step.Importance of Networking (00:30:03) Emphasis on the significance of networking and building relationships in business.Chambers of Commerce and BNI (00:35:47) Explanation of the benefits of being involved in chambers of commerce and BNI for business networking.Moving from Good to Great (00:42:04) Highlighting the transition from being a good shop to a top-tier shop through self-fulfillment and self-actualization.The fourth level: Brand building (00:43:58) Discusses the uniqueness of a shop, brand building, and the importance of being recognized and respected.Advanced digital marketing strategies (00:50:32) Explains the importance of understanding the client and brand, and how advanced targeting and marketing can be achieved.Community involvement and impact (00:52:23) Emphasizes the significance of community involvement, sponsoring events, and creating solutions within the community.Cultural impact and shop culture (00:55:23) Discusses the positive impact of the shop culture and its connection to pop culture, reflecting a deep and positive influence.Self-actualization and fulfillment (00:56:23) Explores reaching one's full potential, achieving self-fulfillment, and making a positive impact without solely relying on wealth.Self-Actualization and Thought Leadership (00:58:40) Discussion about thought leadership, educating clients, and hosting technical trainings.Community Impact and Strategic Partnerships (00:59:50) Exploring the impact on the community, hosting events, and forming strategic partnerships.Becoming an Integral Part of the Community (01:01:17) Examples of local businesses making a significant impact in their community.The Importance of Marketing Alignment (01:03:22) The significance of aligning marketing efforts with the business's stage and goals.Networking and Brand Building (01:04:23) The necessity of networking and brand building for business growth.Encouraging Blog Access (01:05:29) Encouragement to access the blog for a deeper understanding of the discussed topics.Closing Remarks and Podcast Promotion (01:06:11) Closing remarks, promotion of another podcast, and encouraging further listenership.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com

In episode 100 of The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, we invite Tony Mercury from AutoShop Solutions, Carrie-Lynn Rodenberg from Turnkey Marketing, Connor Tracy from Kukui, and Kelsey Outram from Lift Auto Repair Marketing to join us for a meeting of the marketing minds. We talk about where marketing has been, where it’s going, and drop lots of useful knowledge bombs for shop owners to implement in their marketing!Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shopsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Tony Mercury, Autoshop Solutions - https://autoshopsolutions.com/ Carrie-Lynn Rodenburg, Turnkey Marketing - https://www.turnkeyautomarketing.com/ Connor Tracy, Kukui - https://www.kukui.com/ Kelsey Outram, Lift Auto Repair Marketing - https://liftautorepairmarketing.com/ Brian & Kim Walker, Shop Marketing Pros - https://shopmarketingpros.com/ How To Get In Touch With the guestTony Mercury - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-mercury-759061b/Connor Tracy - https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-tracy-005a5663/Carrie-Lynn Rodenburg - https://www.turnkeyautomarketing.com/contact-us/Kelsey Outram - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseyoutram/Show Notes with TimestampsThe introduction (00:00:01) Introduction of the episode, sponsors, and special guests.Discussing the future of marketing (00:01:17) Conversation about the future of marketing and the gathering of various marketers in the industry.The significance of change in marketing (00:03:43) Discussion on the significant changes in marketing for auto repair shops over the last decade.Common mistakes in marketing for auto repair shops (00:05:31) Addressing common mistakes made by auto repair shop owners in their marketing efforts.Challenges in communication and handoff from marketing to sales (00:07:19) Challenges and issues related to communication and handoff from marketing to sales within auto repair shops.Role of AI and automation in marketing (00:10:08) Exploring the role of AI and automation in the future of marketing for auto repair shops.AI in Marketing (00:14:07) AI's role in targeting audiences and delivering custom messages through different platforms.Emerging Technologies for Auto Repair (00:15:10) Shift from web dominance to direct-to-consumer strategies, including online scheduling and live scheduling.Google's Monetization and Direct-to-Consumer Shift (00:16:11) Google's efforts to monetize and sidestep web-based processes, leading to a shift in consumer behavior.Omnichannel Interactions and Augmented Reality (00:18:21) Discussion on changing consumer interactions and potential future use of augmented reality in marketing and repair processes.Telematics and Data Privacy Concerns (00:20:42) The use of telematics in remote diagnostics and the impact of data privacy concerns on the industry.Marketing Differentiation and Community Involvement (00:24:38) Strategies for auto repair shops to differentiate themselves through customer-centric marketing and community involvement.Humanizing the Auto Repair Experience (00:28:02) The importance of humanizing the auto repair experience and leveraging social media for personal connections with customers.Humanized Touches and Great Reviews (00:29:00) Discussion on the importance of humanized touches and leveraging great reviews for marketing.Overthinking Marketing and Human Connection (00:30:10) Emphasizing the simplicity of marketing as human connection and the need for shop owners to connect with their community.Defining Unique Service Propositions (00:31:41) Highlighting the importance of defining what makes auto repair shops unique and understanding their unique service propositions for effective marketing.Underrated Marketing Tactic: Customer Testimonial Videos (00:33:05) Advocating for the use of customer testimonial videos as an underrated marketing tactic for auto repair shops.Consistency and Patience in Marketing (00:34:24) Emphasizing the significance of consistency and patience in marketing strategies for long-term success.Personal Touch and Overrated Word of Mouth Marketing (00:37:51) Discussion on the value of personal touch in marketing and the overreliance on word of mouth marketing.Measuring Results and Importance of Personalized Communication (00:35:20) Highlighting the importance of measuring marketing results and the impact of personalized communication, such as picking up the phone to connect with customers.Diversifying Marketing and Embracing Change (00:40:45) Encouraging shop owners to diversify their marketing efforts and embrace change for continuous growth and success.The importance of industry collaboration (00:43:09) The value of industry collaboration and the passion for helping the industry.Customer-centric marketing strategy (00:43:43) The importance of understanding and connecting with customers' needs and interests in marketing.Taking action and being patient in marketing (00:44:44) Emphasizing the need to take action in marketing, the importance of patience, and consistency in marketing efforts.Gratitude to listeners and sponsors (00:45:17) Expressing gratitude to the listeners and sponsors for their support and encouragement.Closing remarks and podcast information (00:45:52) Closing remarks, information about the podcast, and encouraging listeners to engage and provide feedback.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com

Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. As shop owners we were part of RepairPal’s Certified network and you can learn more at RepairPal.com/shops.Show Notes My Facebook Ads are showing to people way outside of my service area (not set up right)My social media doesn’t seem to be providing a return on investment (Junk smm)I never see my Google Ads when I search for my business (low budget)I don’t show up in the Map Pack when I search for auto repair near me, and I’m searching while I’m in my business (connected to wifi)My website is too slow (pictures too big or cheap hosting)My website doesn’t come up when people search for mechanic near me (stock content)I get lots of leads but they don’t turn into customers (Your SA sucks)My marketing looks like every other shop’s marketing (are you talking to your marketers?)The shop is slow. It’s time to turn our marketing back on. (never stop marketing)How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com