Online Applications Available Now for 2012 GAAS Scholarships; Deadline is March 31
Applications are now being accepted online for the 2012 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) scholarship, awarded to students planning automotive aftermarket careers. The application process is now entirely electronic through the GAAS scholarship website.
Tampa Repair Shop Makes Sure Customers are Comfortable While in Waiting Room
When Charles Calise opened Signature Tire & Auto Care in Tampa, FL, he wanted to make sure his customers had a pleasant experience while waiting for the vehicles to be repaired. The waiting room features a kids-free business center, kids play area and picture windows so customers can watch their vehicles being repair. Calise invested approximately $45,000 into the waiting room and projects to get that back within a year or two.
Attract Female Customers to Boost Your Shop’s Word-of-Mouth Power
Testimonials from customers who are raving fans of your shop are among the best methods for gaining new customers. And a major segment of that word-of-mouth promotion is made up of your female customers.
Editor’s Notebook: Gender May Influence Vehicle Selection
A report released earlier in the year by CarGurus shows that “guy” car and “girl” car stereotypes hold true, confirming the “love affair” that consumers have long had with their vehicles lives on, but also validating the influence of gender on vehicle preferences.
Bring in New Customers with New Approaches: 10 Ways to Elevate Your Shop’s Image in the Community
Although it’s been proven to be far less expensive for a company to keep existing customers than gain new ones, attracting new business remains a very important part of growing your business.
Waukegan Tire & Supply Co. Embraces Social Media to Keep Pace with Shifting Demographics
Waukegan Tire & Supply Co. Inc. has learned to adapt. The company did not just accept change because there was no other choice; it embraced change, and is thriving as a result. From adopting social media to keeping pace with shifting demographics, the company has found ways to grow a sense of community. As a family-run business, it is naturally focused on personal relationships, and has chosen to see not only customers, but also the entire community as its extended family.
Think You’re Female Friendly? Examine the Basics to See if Your Shop Measures Up
Women account for 85% of all consumer purchases, including everything from automobiles to healthcare, and they spend about $5 trillion annually – about half of the U.S. gross domestic product.