What does your auto repair shop’s online presence look like? Whether you’re a brand new business or you’ve been around for a while, a healthy dose of online content will help curious consumers find your auto shop the next time they need an oil change or part replaced. Building the foundation for your auto shop’s online presence is easier than it may seem.
Follow the infographic below to learn 4 tactics to establish your presence online.
4 Steps to Establish Your Auto Repair Shop’s Online Presence
1. Get on Google Maps.
77% of people use Google Maps to search for local businesses. If your auto repair shop isn’t listed, you’re missing out on a major opportunity for generating traffic. After claiming your Google My Business listing, make sure to claim Bing and Yahoo, too.2. Look for Other Local Listings
While Google Maps is king, there are other popular websites that list local businesses. They often consist of creating or “claiming” your own page and always require your business name, address, and phone number. YellowPages and Yelp, for example. Because these are reputable sites, it’s very likely that when someone searches Google for “auto repair Houston, Tx” the top search results will include a page from one of these websites. For a list of local listing websites, read this post.3. Set up Social Media Profiles
Facebook and Instagram reach a more adult audience (i.e., people who drive cars) and are great for sharing images and videos of your shop. Those are the best places to start when setting up social media profiles. Because creating an organic social media strategy takes time, it’s better to invest in just a couple sites that are sure to reach your target market than spread yourself too thin. Establishing an online presence isn’t completely about quantity. Rather, pick social media that has the greatest opportunity to reach your audience, then make sure your info is consistent with the other elements of your online presence.4. Create a Website
Yes, you need one! It doesn’t have to be fancy, even just one page would be a great start. At the bare minimum, make sure your website includes your phone number, address, hours of operation, and list of services. While creating a website can be an expensive and time-consuming experience, there are ways to minimize the effort and still get a great result. Read our Quick Guide to Creating a Website.Creating a Web of Online Information
When the information about your auto shop is consistent across your local listings, social profiles, and website, Google starts to associate all of these individual pieces with one another. The more there is, the more Google starts to trust you. And the more Google trusts you, the more likely it is that they’ll recommend your business in online searches! This web of information catches people as they search for local auto repair shops, putting your name at the top-of-their mind. Read more posts about advertising your Auto Shop.
By Talitha Turkin
By Eric Shafer