Setting up a new garage is definitely exciting. Whether you have been working in one before, have just qualified, or have tons of business experience, there are some things to avoid. These can impact productivity, customer satisfaction, and long-term profitability.
As technology advances and cars get more and more innovative it can get complicated. Customer expectations and operational demands will get more and more taxing. We want to help you get off on the right foot and future-proof your business. We have put together some easy tips for making sure your garage will be off to the races straight away!
1. Choose digital over paper
It’s important you start off how you mean to go on. Some garages have had struggles managing the transition from paperwork over to digital tools. That’s why it’s so important that you start off on good footing and integrate digital tools straight away.
With the right tools, like VGM, you will be able to manage all aspects of your business quickly and efficiently. You’ll be able to do it from the garage or elsewhere thanks to cloud storage. This will save you time faffing about with piles of paper and mismatched records.
Traditional paper processes can be expensive, cost valuable time, and cause more errors. This can lead to less profits, unhappy customers, and stressed-out technicians. A streamlined digital system minimizes errors, improves customer communication, and lets your team focus on the work that really matters: getting cars back on the road.
Bonus Tip: Choose software with customizable options, so as your garage grows, your system can adapt to meet new demands.
2. Invest in long-lasting tools
Cutting corners sounds appealing at first. Sadly, it can really come back to bite you in the long run. Prioritise investing in high-quality tools and equipment that will last you and your team a long time. Being cheap and buying lower-quality tools will mean you will spend more and waste time.
Remember, you and your team will be using these tools to fix hundreds of vehicles. You need to make sure they’re up to the job.
Bonus Tip: Regularly review your equipment for wear and consider establishing a maintenance schedule to keep everything in top condition.
3. Build a customer-obsessed team
A successful garage doesn’t just fix cars – it builds relationships. You should make sure your team are comfortable talking to customers and building a rapport with them. Your team’s ability to communicate effectively with customers, explain complex repairs in simple terms, and build trust. This can help turn a one-off customer into a customer for life.
Most of the time your customers will come to you feeling stressed. Your team will need to be empathetic to their needs and give them stellar service. You don’t want bad customer service to add to their already stressful day!
Bonus Tip: Implement regular training on customer service best practices to reinforce these values over time.
4. Create an inviting and professional space
First impressions matter, especially when it comes to garages. Nothing is more off putting than a garage that is messy and unorganised. While it may be hard to stay clean, a bad space can make customers question your skills.
Keeping your space tidy and organised will instill confidence in your customers. It will also mean that your team will be able to find things quickly and navigate around the space more easily.
We’re here to help you on this journey
Setting up a garage takes more than tools and space. It requires a strategic approach that considers customer experience, efficiency, and adaptability.
VGM can help you manage all aspects of your garage and can support you and your team from opening day and for many years to come. What’s more, it is commitment-free and costs start from only £50 per month. This means is an incredible solution to choose without breaking the bank.
Want to learn more? Book a free demo today!
