Personally I have never advertised since the 90's. I found it here was a complete waste of time and money as it only brought in the deadbeat customers. I even had them calling with ridiculous questions. Currently the only advertising that I have business is the sign out front of the shop. Nearly all my new business clients are referrals which is some the best advertising that can be had.
Now I did have a potential new customer stop by yesterday that seen my sign. Some of the questions she was asking very detailed so it appeared she has been burned in the past by small shops. things how long have I been in business, do I warranty my workmanship, how long I have been working on equipment, am I licensed, and finally a question that I have check into. As to if I accept Greenbelt tax exemption. That one I couldn't answer on the spot. Another one was do I offer discounts for seniors (which I do). It takes care the sales tax part of the bill when they are 65 or over.
Now I am 20+ miles from the nearest large town, several smaller towns closer in but none have repair shops other than fly by night shops. I deal with their screw ups all the time. I actually enough parts on hand now that I can sell just parts if needed without having to order everything.
BTW I currently have one guy that thinks $400 is too much to do the following:
- Replace starter solenoid
- Replace the bearings in all three spindles
- Replace all deck idler pulleys
- Replace both drive belts and idlers pulleys
- Install one inner tube
- Replace front wheel bushings
- Pickup and deliver the mower.
The mower is a 46" 2005 Huskee. Lots of bad bearing noise.
He thinks that is too expensive and I should be doing it for $100. He is nuts.... Currently he owes $75 for replacing the starter solenoid. I done tried to return the mower twice with him missing both appointments. Now he got to arrange his own pickup and return of the mower.
