Selling to Women
Tire and automotive servicedealers, especially, need to remember that women do indeed hold the pursestrings when it comes to purchases. They wield significant economic power,purchasing 80% of all consumer goods. And, they make up about 65% of thecustomer base for automotive repair and service centers, according to theAutomotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). So, how can
Bring in New Customers With New Approaches
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 the toughest, most vital part of staying on top. This holds true particularly for tire dealers in today’s economic climate, where the majority of consumers are limiting tire and vehicle service
Six Common Sales Mistakes
Here are the six most common mistakes salespeople make and how to overcome them: 1. Fearing the customer’s reaction. When salespeople are afraid of what a customer might say, they end up losing sales opportunities because they don’t find out what the customer really wants. For example, what if the customer says, "Your price is
Handling Customer Complaints
No one likes to get complaints. Most tire dealers will do almost anything to avoid them. But mistakes happen, and – believe it or not – a complaint from a customer can actually be a blessing in disguise. Follow these six steps to turn complaints into opportunities: 1. Act fast. It can be tempting to
Superior Customer Service
In the history of the world, the topic of customer service might not generate as much enthusiasm or interest as, say, global terrorism. But don’t tell that to a businessman – especially a tire dealer – who is battling a badly strained economy for his own survival in the marketplace. These days, businesses will “go
Reject the Recession
While heavy news coverage of the financial turmoil is hard to avoid, you don’t need to let it overwhelm your dealership operations. It is hard to avoid feeling the "recession depression,” but you can either let the media send you into panic mode or view the downturn as an opportunity. Here are some ways to thrive
Creating a Buzz: Shatter Expectations to Keep Customers Coming Back
Operating any business in today’s economic climate certainly brings with it many challenges. But tire dealers are met with a unique set of hurdles, not the least of which is consumers’ tightened budgets. You’ve probably been met with many customers who are trying to stretch their money – those driving on tires that are well
Maximize Your Chances With RFPs
If your dealership becomes involved in a Request for Proposal process (RFP), there are specific issues that require careful attention to maximize your chances and avoid a time-consuming and costly situation. An RFP can be an informal process where a few suppliers are interviewed and a selection made from among them, or a formal process
Accepting Credit Cards
Those of you who don’t already know that credit cards are safer than checks are living in the past. Even so, common sense must prevail when accepting credit cards, just as it does when you accept a check. Compare the name on the credit card to a driver’s license or other valid identification. Be careful
How to Retain Customers
If you treat your customers better than the giant retailer down the street, you can bet you’re going to get their tire business first. It all boils down to common courtesy. Offer the reality of great customer service and consideration. Treat your customers this way every time, all the time. Here are some things you
Make New Friends, But…
You know the old saying: “One is silver and the other is gold.” While it’s always smart to prospect for new customers, don’t forget the ones who have purchased tires or services from you in the past. Remind former customers that you exist and give them a reason to pay you a visit. If possible,