[blake]

Dennis, I haven’t been to the forum in some time but I couldn’t help notice you’re a new shop owner looking for what seems like revenue streams from auto insurance co’s and rock lots. Most auto insurance claims are collision claims and many body shops have gone to performing mech. repairs to maintain their own pockets. Most rock lots are bottom feeders looking for patchwork. Neither are sources that will build your business. As a rule, “wholesale work” doesn’t pay what you need in that you’re doing the same work for less money.

Your retail customer is what needs to be cultivated, on the web, on your property signs/banners/etc. and of course face to face with current customers and anywhere else you get the opportunity. When I first opened NT in 01, I carried a stack of business cards and handed one to every person I came into contact with. Cashiers at Lowes, the McDonalds drive up window, etc. with the no pressure “Do you have a car? Here, you might need me someday!” A web presence, correctly constructed w/regard to SEO and SEM, and reviews. Lots and lots of reviews. With customer photo’s. Don’t be afraid to ask if you can share their compliment with potential customers. I’ve never been refused. You might consider a mgmt. class with an emphasis on marketing.

[blake]

Google can be a full time job in itself Tom. I have my web guy do it and he does it very well. Tracking my new customers has almost 100% of them contacting me from an internet source. But I’d never do it myself. I know a little about the “idea”, but that’s as far as it goes. Having a successful web presence will deliver amazing results. Good luck.