<![CDATA[Car Care Forums: Meguiar's Online - Detailing for dollars]]> http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/ Help starting and/or running a detail business en Thu, 20 Jun 2013 03:12:36 GMT vBulletin 15 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/cpstyles/meguiars/misc/rss.png <![CDATA[Car Care Forums: Meguiar's Online - Detailing for dollars]]> http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/ Metering system product help please! http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59292-Metering-system-product-help-please!&goto=newpost Wed, 19 Jun 2013 11:34:47 GMT I have the opportunity to get into the Megs metering system DSM6000 through my local rep. The setup he recommends is: D101 - APC D108 - Super Degreaser D112 - Super Soap I have the opportunity to get into the Megs metering system DSM6000 through my local rep. The setup he recommends is:



D101 - APC

D108 - Super Degreaser

D112 - Super Soap

D120 - Glass Cleaner

D140- Wheel Brightner

D171 - Water Based Dressing



The only one of these I have actually used is the D101 APC. I have some APC+ but have not tried it yet. I also have some of the D170 Hyper dressing and really like it.



He will allow me to change the set up if I want.



I was thinking:



D103 - APC +

D155 - Last Touch Detail Spray

D110 - Hyper Wash

D120 - Glass Cleaner

D140 - Wheel Brightner

D170 - Hyper Dressing



Is anyone using this system and if so what products are you running through it?



What line up of products would you recommend? ]]> Detailing for dollars 2BlackChevys http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59292-Metering-system-product-help-please! <![CDATA[Do you guaranty your work? My work is "superbly guaranteed"]]> http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59140-Do-you-guaranty-your-work-My-work-is-quot-superbly-guaranteed-quot&goto=newpost Fri, 31 May 2013 18:57:27 GMT Now I'm trying to be arrogant or to brag. I'm just so prod of myself and I just wanted to share with MOL how taking pride in your work pays off for everyone.

This customer was suppose to call me back so I could do his interior but he never called.
While I was in his neighborhood I stopped by to check in with him. To my surprise the scratches that I though I had completely removed where still there!:wall: Granted they were caused by a child drawing on a black car with a rock I was still shocked.

Now I take a lot of pride in my work. I consult with Meg's, and other detailers if I ever run into a problem. And as I work all their teachings are telling me what to do. So I was appalled at myself for these scratches "coming back". I blame an oily product, bad lighting/sun/work area. I learned my lesson and this will never happen again.

I told my customer I wanted to come back and fix those scratches with wet sanding and get all psycho on them!!!
Well, all the scratches were removed and the work was triple checked and we were all happy with the results.
Today I checked my on-line reviews and I saw this:

Mike
Coto De Caza, CA
5 stars
5/30/2013:
I had Mario out to do a complete detail on my Black Toyota, It was windy day and he did a very good job in the conditions.
Mario had mentioned to me then that he could do a thorough interior clean at some later day of my choosing. I had forgotten that, and, to call him back, but Mario checked back w...ith me about the interior, and saw some of the paint correction work he'd done previously on my driver door had not lasted, some scratches were back. He said he'd be back the next day and would fix it for free, under warranty.
He showed up and hand sanded the scratches, compounded and polished them completely out. All the time he was working, nearly 4 hours on his dime, he was more than happy to share with me what he was doing at each step, what product he preferred, and tips and tricks for me to utilize myself.
He even showed me the correct method for Dr Color Chip paint fills for scratches that couldn't be corrected out easily. Mario is a consummate professional.
He will teach and demonstrate to professionals and aspiring n00bs.
His work is top quality and is superbly guaranteed.
If you need work on your car's finish call this guy, you will not be sorry.


So guarantee your work, you'll make your customers happy, you'll make yourself prod and your business will grow.

I always tell my customers:
"Your satisfaction is guarantied. Please call me if your not happy with anything and I'll be right over to make you happy"

and on the bottom of my receipt it says this:
"If we did a great job tell your friends, if not tell us" ]]> Detailing for dollars Please Wash Me Detailing http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59140-Do-you-guaranty-your-work-My-work-is-quot-superbly-guaranteed-quot <![CDATA[makin' it official!]]> http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59102-makin-it-official!&goto=newpost Tue, 28 May 2013 15:06:37 GMT hey guys, i've not really been commenting, but i've sure been lurking, buying, and practicing. i graduated about two weeks ago and am now looking to open shop going mobile. i've been writing a business plan for about two months and i'm a little stuck lol. but my current project is, is to get a business license. in Ohio however, we don't have a license for detailers (that i can find) but one for car washes. does anyone work out of Ohio and perhaps know whether i file under car wash or what?

looking to post pics of my ride as soon as i get a camera!

thanks in advance!
Tyler. ]]> Detailing for dollars flight567 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59102-makin-it-official! New Mobile Detailer http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59049-New-Mobile-Detailer&goto=newpost Thu, 23 May 2013 17:22:44 GMT Hey there, I am just starting up a mobile auto detailing company, and I wondered how current mobile detailers are advertising for/to customers? I have business cards (which I hand out at every opportunity), a facebook page dedicated to my company, I am looking into a web site and I have placed... Hey there,

I am just starting up a mobile auto detailing company, and I wondered how current mobile detailers are advertising for/to customers? I have business cards (which I hand out at every opportunity), a facebook page dedicated to my company, I am looking into a web site and I have placed an add on kijiji. Anyone doing anything else for advertisment?

I am going to be doing waterless washing for the exteriors... I have done some research on a few different kinds and I would love some opinions as to which you all prefer? I have looked into a product called NOWET... which looks interesting (claims to be completely eco friendly, organic and REACH certified), it's quite expensive however. The others i'm interested in are Ultima Waterless Wash Plus, and the Meguiars version, Ultimate Wash and Wax Anywhere.
Any advice, or suggestions are completely welcome! Thanks for taking the time to read this :heelclick1.gif ]]> Detailing for dollars The Mobile CARess http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59049-New-Mobile-Detailer Detailing for advertisement at a car show. http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59044-Detailing-for-advertisement-at-a-car-show&goto=newpost Wed, 22 May 2013 21:39:29 GMT Ok guys I will make a long story short here. Guys owns a 911 GT3 black. Swirls all over the place, dirty as hell and even has some bird droppings on it. It's a shame that such a beautiful car gets treated like ****. Owner has plenty of money but is kind of a cheap skate. Car show is coming up 4th of July weekend, guy wants me to do my full detail package. (In the Boise area I usually charge $3-350 for this) and it can take me anywhere from 8-12 hrs depending on the condition of the car. With the Porsche being black and the condition it's in I'm guessing 12 or more hours. He want's a discount on the detail and then he will let me put signage/advertisements on and around his car for the show. Have any of you ever done this? If I do decide to do this how much of a discount if any should I give him? I'm not sure yet how many cars are going to be in the show, so I don't know yet how high my exposure will be. ]]> Detailing for dollars =AFJ=Reaper http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?59044-Detailing-for-advertisement-at-a-car-show How much to Wash a Cessna airplane? http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58816-How-much-to-Wash-a-Cessna-airplane&goto=newpost Sun, 28 Apr 2013 14:40:14 GMT I have a friend who was offered the opportunity to wash (exterior, with materials provided) several Cessnas at a nearby airport. What rate would you charge? Thanks! I have a friend who was offered the opportunity to wash (exterior, with materials provided) several Cessnas at a nearby airport.
What rate would you charge?

Thanks! ]]> Detailing for dollars RacerX88 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58816-How-much-to-Wash-a-Cessna-airplane Local Interest? http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58724-Local-Interest&goto=newpost Tue, 16 Apr 2013 21:41:58 GMT Normal 0 ...]]> So I am looking to do some details for side money. I have had some local interest, and am wondeirng if these prices seem fair for a population that has a minmum wage of $7.50 per hour:
Costs:

(Dependant On Vehicle Size)

Wash and Wax $25

Clean Paint With ClayBar +$30-$50

Seal Paint Before Wax +$30

Glaze Paint Before Wax +$20

Correct *Most* Paint Defects +$100-$150 (Depending On Size)

I do the wheel wells, and I dress the tires a little with a wash and a wax. With the correction I restore the trim with Mothers Back to Black.
This is what I came up with. I have detailed about 3 cars since my own, and have gotten great results with newer, smaller pads from Chemical Guys.
I have been using ECOwash as my wash for those without, or those who won't let me use their hose. I use a diluted ECOwash for the clay lube.
I have based the prices comparing what it costs to use my products and the time spent on each. It takes about $8-10 at a local car wash to wash a vehicle and they only provide a diluted spray on wax that is really only hot water.

My only real concern is since I do not tend to make this into a business, how can I protect myself?
I mean, I take photos of before and after of my work with a high quality camera, but is that enough?
Do these prices look reasonable?

I am fairly new at charging for this stuff, as most of the time it has been my car or, a family members whom I have done. I am just concerned at some sue happy person who intended from the beginning to nap me for a new paint job on a neglected car....
How do I explain to them defects that they will now see with a clean paint job? Such as dents and dings and scratched deeper then the clear coat?
Thanks for the advice.

]]> Detailing for dollars PerfectCreature http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58724-Local-Interest What is your occupation title? http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58404-What-is-your-occupation-title&goto=newpost Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:59:09 GMT I'm looking to make some nice business cards and wondering what some of you guys use for your professional title?

Detailing Consultant
Detailer
etc...

Thanks! ]]> Detailing for dollars kkarasch http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58404-What-is-your-occupation-title Is anyone interested in buying a fully running detailing business? http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58305-Is-anyone-interested-in-buying-a-fully-running-detailing-business&goto=newpost Sat, 02 Mar 2013 19:50:51 GMT Hey Everyone,

I'm thinking that I am going to sell my mobile detailing business as I have a Bachelors degree now and I am just not into it like I was when I started and want to go back to working on my own cars.

This Is a fully operational business which is easilly transportable from Bend Oregon where it is located to really anywhere in the country.

I am not sure on the price as I see the value of the business higher than what its actual face value really is. I am open to offers

Now that you know what it is you probably will want to know what would be included.

1. 10ftx6ft single axel trailer with full graphics, dual doors with lock, florescent light inside, full wood siding with insulation.
I also have a 1994 ford econoline that tows the trailer nicely that can be included if someone wants it.
Exterior detailing equipment
2. 250 gallon water tank
3. 35 gallon water tank
4. 2500psi truck mount pressure washer with pressure adjustment, 125ft hose
5. 1300 psi electric pressure washer with 50ft of hose.
6. 2 wash buckets 1 with grit guard. 4 mitts, 2 wheel sponges, 1 wash brush, 2 shammies
7. 1 megs g110v2, 1 cyclo, 1 drillmaster rotary polisher(harbor freight)
8 American Windshield repair system
9 Fully stocked with polishes,claybars, waxes, wheel and tire cleaner, spray detailer, glass cleaners, dressings,rv polishes,metal polishes. (most are from Malco but I use a ton of megs as well and can order anything at a discounted price)
10. Brinkman xenon swirlfinder light

Interior detailing equipment
1. Craftsman 5hp 12gal shop vac with both large and small hose.
2.Servasteam carpet extractor: Dual Vacuum, newer pump 15 ft of hose with 4in tip, 14 gallon total capacity
3. Vaporclean Tr5 pro steam cleaner: 305 Degree boiler 65psi Steam, 2 liter capacity, 2hr run time before refill, jet tip, upholstry triangle, steam mop and squeegee.
4. fully stocked with all the carpet cleaner, glass cleaner, leather and plastic cleaners, leather conditioner.


Along with all of this the business has an IRS registered name and EIN number
Fully Set up website, google adwords campaigns(professionally set up) Go payment credit card processing, Local directories all set up. All of this is transferable and I will help you get it all set up for your market.

I will also offer a full week of training or more if needed so you are all set up on how to best run the business I will also teach everything I know about detailing so that you will not be lacking in your market.

now that you know about what the business is let me tell you about myself. My name is Mackenzie I have been detailing here in bend for the past 4 years. I have a bachelors degree in business administration and have been working on cars most of my life. this business has been my only source of income since I started it and it makes around 30,000 a year however I have tried to keep it small. the true profit potiential of the business is up to you and what you would like to get out of it.

Please also check out the business's website, yelp reviews and my facebook page

www.showautodetail.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Showro...6130062?ref=hl
http://www.yelp.com/biz/showroom-mob...detailing-bend ]]> Detailing for dollars Showmob http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58305-Is-anyone-interested-in-buying-a-fully-running-detailing-business Fixed location questions http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58273-Fixed-location-questions&goto=newpost Wed, 27 Feb 2013 03:40:49 GMT I am looking to get back into the detailing world. I did some mobile detailing a few years ago but have questions about having a fixed location. I now own my own house. I have a large three car garage and live in a somewhat busy area yet a quiet street. Not out in the country. I would like to... I am looking to get back into the detailing world. I did some mobile detailing a few years ago but have questions about having a fixed location. I now own my own house. I have a large three car garage and live in a somewhat busy area yet a quiet street. Not out in the country. I would like to detail for money again. I think it would be so convienent to do it out of my garage. I have plenty of space and all of my supplies is here. Does anyone here detail from home? I am starting to think that no one would ever drop their car at a strangers house to detail it. Am I wrong? It would be perfect for me. Then again they always say word of mouth is the best form of advertisment. If someone knows I do a good job maybe it would be worth it to them. The thing that bugged me about mobile was I would go places that had very little space to work or even worse no garage. I always felt like I was rushing to beat daylight. Not to mention the gas and time involved loading and unloading everything. I am just thinking of ideas and throwing things around in my head. Any info is greatly appreciated. Especially input from out of home detailers if there are any.

Thank you! ]]> Detailing for dollars carguy2007 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?58273-Fixed-location-questions Smartphone Credit Card Readers http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57767-Smartphone-Credit-Card-Readers&goto=newpost Tue, 05 Feb 2013 17:17:29 GMT Just wondering if any of our professional members have adopted the use of any of the Smartphone Credit Card Readers? Seems that this would be a logical way to expand business by opening up your services to those folks who may not have the cash on hand to pay for a detail, or those who might put off... Just wondering if any of our professional members have adopted the use of any of the Smartphone Credit Card Readers? Seems that this would be a logical way to expand business by opening up your services to those folks who may not have the cash on hand to pay for a detail, or those who might put off a detail until their paycheck deposits or they get that tax return.

PayPal and Intuit are the 2 big players right now, and I know that PayPal charges 2.7% per transaction. For anyone using it, how has it worked for you? Are you satisfied with the security of the transaction? Better yet, are your customers OK with you running their cards through your phone? Do you have to have an established business to use the readers?


]]> Detailing for dollars ClearlyCoated http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57767-Smartphone-Credit-Card-Readers I would like to get your feedback on ****** Coating http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57766-I-would-like-to-get-your-feedback-on-******-Coating&goto=newpost Tue, 05 Feb 2013 03:30:57 GMT >> http://autodetailingblog.thesocalway.com/******-coating-car/]]> I wrote this article for my blog and I have been getting some very different reviews on ******. I would like to hear what you the PROS have to say about ******.

Here is the article. >>> http://autodetailingblog.thesocalway...*-coating-car/ ]]> Detailing for dollars Socal Mobile http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57766-I-would-like-to-get-your-feedback-on-******-Coating Anyone here doing dealer work? http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57536-Anyone-here-doing-dealer-work&goto=newpost Fri, 11 Jan 2013 02:17:57 GMT Are there any detailers here doing work for dealers? Either at their shop or mobile? Please feel free to share pros/cons, approaching them, lot size etc. Are there any detailers here doing work for dealers? Either at their shop or mobile?

Please feel free to share pros/cons, approaching them, lot size etc. ]]> Detailing for dollars Tuck91 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57536-Anyone-here-doing-dealer-work Looking for some feedback.... http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57443-Looking-for-some-feedback&goto=newpost Fri, 28 Dec 2012 23:40:40 GMT >>...]]> Hey all... Hope you had a great Holiday. Hoping to get some of you to look at my Auto Detailing Blog and give your thoughts on some of my latest posts. Maybe you can leave a comment on the blog itself?


Thanks!


Happy Detailing!!!


Here is the blog >>> http://autodetailingblog.thesocalway.com/ ]]> Detailing for dollars Socal Mobile http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57443-Looking-for-some-feedback old website vs new website http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57347-old-website-vs-new-website&goto=newpost Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:01:09 GMT here are my old website: www.proreflection.com/old and my new website: www.proreflection.com i have a good success with the old version , but i realize i loose a lot because has a lack in specific words , and is too plain. with new website i focus on an image that is more professional ,... here are my old website:
www.proreflection.com/old

and my new website:
www.proreflection.com


i have a good success with the old version , but i realize i loose a lot because has a lack in specific words , and is too plain.
with new website i focus on an image that is more professional , customer oriented - will help sell better, better optimized for search engines. ]]> Detailing for dollars Cosmin http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57347-old-website-vs-new-website Tweaked my site, what do you guys think? http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57343-Tweaked-my-site-what-do-you-guys-think&goto=newpost Wed, 12 Dec 2012 19:03:35 GMT Now that winter is setting in I took some time to make a few changes to my site. Let me know what you think. Now that winter is setting in I took some time to make a few changes to my site. Let me know what you think. ]]> Detailing for dollars rustytruck http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57343-Tweaked-my-site-what-do-you-guys-think FREE Ad Space... No Strings Attached. http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57295-FREE-Ad-Space-No-Strings-Attached&goto=newpost Mon, 10 Dec 2012 17:29:05 GMT Hello, I just revamped my Auto Detailing blog and I am offering FREE ad space to detailing product companies. I currently have two ad spaces that are both 125x125 in size and one that is 250x250. You will have to do your own art work and provide me the link. I will keep it up for 3-6 months,...
Hello,

I just revamped my Auto Detailing blog and I am offering FREE ad space to detailing product companies. I currently have two ad spaces that are both 125x125 in size and one that is 250x250. You will have to do your own art work and provide me the link. I will keep it up for 3-6 months, maybe longer. My site has good traffic and a good Google PR ranking. If you are interested please email me at info@thesocalway.com

I ask that the ads are professional and link to ONLY auto detailing product companies. To make it even better, you can submit a article to go along with the ad and I will post that on the blog as well. And again, this is all FREE. I really want to offer the readers of this blog a good experience.

Thanks!!!

Here is the blog >>> San Diego Auto Detailing
]]> Detailing for dollars Socal Mobile http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57295-FREE-Ad-Space-No-Strings-Attached I just launched my revamped Auto Detailing Blog. Please... http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57290-I-just-launched-my-revamped-Auto-Detailing-Blog-Please&goto=newpost Mon, 10 Dec 2012 06:25:16 GMT The new blog just went live and I hope you all like it as much as I do. Please feel free to comment on a post or if you would like you can email me and submit an article to post on the blog. Let me know what you think. http://autodetailingblog.thesocalway.com/ The new blog just went live and I hope you all like it as much as I do. Please feel free to comment on a post or if you would like you can email me and submit an article to post on the blog.

Let me know what you think.

http://autodetailingblog.thesocalway.com/ ]]> Detailing for dollars Socal Mobile http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57290-I-just-launched-my-revamped-Auto-Detailing-Blog-Please 3 ways to get more business from your car detailing website. http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57193-3-ways-to-get-more-business-from-your-car-detailing-website&goto=newpost Sat, 24 Nov 2012 22:59:21 GMT *Car detailers, PDR techs, and interior repair techs like yourself have a massive opportunity to make more money with a website because:* * *Your business is visual, and so is the web.* What better way to win people over than with photos? * *Your customers are affluent, and therefore more... Car detailers, PDR techs, and interior repair techs like yourself have a massive opportunity to make more money with a website because:


  • Your business is visual, and so is the web. What better way to win people over than with photos?
  • Your customers are affluent, and therefore more likely to search for services online. Busy car owners are doing thousands of monthly searches for dent repair, bumper repair, and detailing in your city. They like that the web allows them to quickly compare the prices and reputations of many different shops.


Yet...most reconditioners don't have a website. And those that do, sort of leave them out there as "virtual business cards": they present what they do and how they can be contacted, but don't offer reasons why.
If you're planning a website or if you already have one and want better results, here's the 3 smartest things you can do to attract lots more customers.

Introduce yourself. Include a photo.

P

Here's the most common mistake I see out there: sites that present nothing about the owner! Your customers aren't hiring shiny expensive cars, so why do detailers compulsively post photos of BMWs, Ferraris, and Porsches? They're hiring you, a human being they must trust with the second most expensive thing they own. So let them know who you are why they should hire you, and share a photo of yourself (preferably in-uniform and on the job).
Case in point...
Our customer Jason Plummer of NWPDR added a short video introducing himself to his website visitors. Business is up, and customers frequently say: "I saw your video and found you trustworthy. So I called."

Build a Google "power listing."



If your customers love you, ask them to tell more than just their friends. Ask them to recommend you half your entire city on Google. Here's how:


  • Create a free Google Places account. It's free, and takes about 10 minutes.
  • Ask every customer for feedback, and a Google review. The day after their appointment, send an email thanking them for their business, and a request for feedback or a review on Google. Make it easy for them, and send them the webpage of your Google Places listing.


In time, you'll start to show up on page 1 (for free) with lots of glowing praise for your service.


Present before and after photos of your customers' most common problems.



The second most common mistake I see on detailers' websites is their fascination with posting photos of their favorite cars at the exclusion of photos of the jobs their customers actually hire them for. So be sure to capture before and after photos of these nasty problems you fix to pay the bills:


  • Filthy interiors
  • Pet hair
  • Stained wheels
  • Water spot removal
  • Stain removal



Robert Keppel
Applied Colors ]]> Detailing for dollars ti286 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?57193-3-ways-to-get-more-business-from-your-car-detailing-website Thinking of going legit... http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56565-Thinking-of-going-legit&goto=newpost Thu, 11 Oct 2012 02:18:39 GMT I came to LA so my wife could deliver our little one here and for me to visit some old friends, but ever since I went to the Meguiars class for my Bday, I've been the proud owner of my DA polisher. Once I had it, the demand for details went up. I went from beat up little trucks to Big
Suburbans, Black Tundras and even an exotic detail shop back at home
(San Antonio) wants to hire me!

I began doing it as a hobby, to get my skills up for when I go home I can detail my two babies. Just from bs and what not I made enough to pay not only my bills but mortgage as well.
I have been in love with this machine and can't seem to put it down.

Realizing how much of a demand I have and how much I'm enjoying being my own boss, I have began thinking maybe I should go legit. Problem is I don't know where to begin. I have supplies and I have customers but I'm naive when it comes to legal stuff. Do I need any permits or special licenses to start a name? Is it possible to work from home, or do I need to rent out a place this early? Basically I'm looking for advise and you personal experience on how you guys began.
Thank you
Abe C. ]]> Detailing for dollars Rocksteady-Rebel http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56565-Thinking-of-going-legit <![CDATA[Where to find the top-paying customers you've been looking for.]]> http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56564-Where-to-find-the-top-paying-customers-you-ve-been-looking-for&goto=newpost Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:40 GMT Where you'll meet your best customers: car shows, car clubs, and the race track.

There's car events year-round (many more in the summer) all around you full of deep pocket guys who need clean shiny cars:

  • Car shows. Your local newspaper will announce carshows. They run radio advertising. Auto parts stores announce car shows with flyers.
  • Car clubs. Most have monthly meetings in public places like coffee shops. Google "[your city] car club." You'll find Ford clubs, Mustang clubs, Vette clubs, Porsche clubs, Audi clubs, and Italian clubs.
  • Race events. Check the website of your local race track. I prefer what's called "track days" where owners of street-legal sports cars (sometimes the cars they drive every day), rent the race track for the day. Think: Corvette, GT-R, BMW M3/M5, Mustang, Quattro Club, and Porsche 996/997.
    Would you like to walk out of a car show with new, well-paying customers?


Of these, I've found parking lot "meet ups" to be the best for acquiring new customers. Owners are accessible, relaxed, and importantly...secretly want to have the cleanest, swirl-free car in the parking lot.
Find their detailing "sore spots" and offer yourself as a solution to their problems.


First, don't be that guy: the one scrambling around handing out business cards to half the people there! Those cards will go straight to the garbage. Don't even wear a company t-shirt: it says "I want to sell you something." Big turnoff.
Just be social, be friendly...be a car guy:



  • Break the ice: talk about his car, not your detailing service. Point out things that are different and unique about his car. Ask about who built it, painted it, etc.
  • Prove you're a car guy too. You probably got into detailing because of your love for cars. Share your passion, your knowledge of the specifics of the cars at the event. Prove to that you're one of them, and you might become the one they trust with their car.
  • Listen for these hints he needs your help. You'll find many owners take pride in their own detailing. You won't convert them into a customer, so don't make a fool of yourself trying to. But if you talk to enough, you'll hear a few cries for help: "I just don't have the time to detail my cars" or "I can't get that shine I see on the show winning cars" These are your best prospects!
  • Offer advice: be generous. You'll spot dull rubber, water spots, dry vinyl, fading leather and more. Offer solutions to these "problem areas." But be conversational about. Don't sound like a "know it all."
  • Asking for the sale: be specific. Here's the most common "pitch" I hear at car events: "If you ever want your car detailed, here's my card." That never works! Instead, point out something specific on their car--a greasy engine, heavy brake dust build up, oxidized or swirled paint--and offer yourself as the specific solution.
  • Talk product....talk brands. Car guys put a lot of trust in brands. Emphasize the brands of polish and wax that you use. Names like "3M, Menzerna, P21S, Swisswax, Zymol" etc. People associate brands with quality, and you, as a stranger, want to be associated with quality.



Selling is brutal, but a little goes a long way.

When my detailing business was young I absolutely hated selling. But I was persistent enough to get a just enough car crazy strangers to trust me with their car. And just enough of them loved me enough to tell their 5 more car crazy friends about me. And just enough of them loved me enough to tell 10 car crazies, and eventually reputation spread on the Internet, which made the whole project a full time enterprise!

Quoted from the Applied Colors blog for car detailers. ]]> Detailing for dollars ti286 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56564-Where-to-find-the-top-paying-customers-you-ve-been-looking-for Insurance Question http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56471-Insurance-Question&goto=newpost Mon, 01 Oct 2012 20:15:07 GMT I'm not sure how many on these forums that this will apply to, but thought I'd ask anyways.

So, I've got my full time mobile detailing business (it's just me btw) and my wife and I have gotten our health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) through her job in the past. Well, we are now expecting our first baby :-) and the plan is for her not to go back to work afterward. This means that we'll need to get insurance independently :(

I know it will be more expensive, but Ive been researching options and figured I'd ask on here to see if any business owners on here purchases individual insurance or have any experience or tips on ways to go about this. Thanks in advance for any suggestions that you might have. I look forward to a good dialogue on this topic as I couldn't see it discussed much on here in the past. ]]> Detailing for dollars jarred767 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56471-Insurance-Question <![CDATA[Looking for some feedback on my "Terms & Conditions" page.]]> http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56437-Looking-for-some-feedback-on-my-quot-Terms-amp-Conditions-quot-page&goto=newpost Fri, 28 Sep 2012 03:18:08 GMT >> http://thesocalway.com/socal-mobile-auto-detail-terms-conditions/]]> Just launched a "Terms & Conditions" page on my website. I could use some feedback from you guys.

Thanks in advance.

Click Here >>> http://thesocalway.com/socal-mobile-...ms-conditions/ ]]> Detailing for dollars Socal Mobile http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56437-Looking-for-some-feedback-on-my-quot-Terms-amp-Conditions-quot-page I may have already asked this question before.... http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56364-I-may-have-already-asked-this-question-before&goto=newpost Wed, 19 Sep 2012 04:57:18 GMT Is there anyone who is interested in writing a guest post on my Auto Detailing blog? Doing so is a great way for you to get a good backlink for your website. My website has a PR3, which is VERY good for a auto detailing site. I don't know any other detailing sites that have a PR that is higher although I am sure there are some out there.

If you want to visit the blog to see where your article will be posted, go to thesocalway.com and click on the blog link.

If you don't want to write an article you can always leave a comment and it will give you a backlink as well.

Thanks! ]]> Detailing for dollars Socal Mobile http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56364-I-may-have-already-asked-this-question-before how to get customers? already had one business failed http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56305-how-to-get-customers-already-had-one-business-failed&goto=newpost Thu, 13 Sep 2012 14:31:45 GMT since i cant find a job and have been out of work for awhile, i have started detailing cars again. I'm only getting one car maybe every 3 weeks. i got nice card to hand out, i go to car show and friends to hand out.i try to promote on local forums.

i had a small tire shop and lost all my money in there. i had radio, newpaper, flyers, cards, signs all around the building but couldnt get people through the door. so before i jump head first in, i want to make sure that I can get customers. what should i look into?

I ]]> Detailing for dollars rightaway http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56305-how-to-get-customers-already-had-one-business-failed Business Name Help http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56303-Business-Name-Help&goto=newpost Thu, 13 Sep 2012 10:28:41 GMT Hi all, I got all the equipment I need for detailing and was going to create a website. I'm still pretty stuck on creating a name though. Here's some ideas I'm trying to narrow down, but feel free to chime in if you've got better ones.

Inox Detailing: Inox is an Italian word for "stainless", pronounced like eye knocks. Just like the way it looks and sounds. Not much competition for this name either, drawback is that potential customers will have a tough time spelling it and remembering it to look me up.

Northstar Detailing: I'm in Minnesota, but there is already competition on this as there is a Northstar Detailing in the twin cities area, about 100 miles north of me. I'd rather avoid using my city or county name, because I might move to a nearby city and don't want to limit the name like that if I were to move 20 miles away.

Onyx: This is a type of mineral or rock I think, but once again I just like the way it looks and sounds like the Inox one. Same drawbacks, hard to spell and pronounce for many people, and there is an Onyx detailing somewhere in the U.S. apparently. In the internet age unfortunately it's hard to find something that isn't being used somewhere.

How about something less original, but easier? I've seen many of you go with that for simplicity and how it's going to catch a lot more on Google hits. ]]> Detailing for dollars Jeremy1980 http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56303-Business-Name-Help The Snake in the Grass...(a copycat story) http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56255-The-Snake-in-the-Grass-(a-copycat-story)&goto=newpost Sat, 08 Sep 2012 23:22:23 GMT
Two days ago a "customer" called and asked about getting his three vehicles detailed. That's pretty normal so I gave him all of the details and let him know when I would be available next. He then said that he was going to look around town and see what other business's prices were for a similar detail which many customers do. He then called back later that evening and said that he was most likely going to go with me and asked if he could meet me and I said sure, he came to my home with his wife and they were curious about products that I used and how I cleaned things. He said that he did a ton of research on my website and compared it to other business's. After a while they left and the next day I was looking on Craigslist in the automotive services section and found that he owned a detail business and had copied my detail packages word for word and even copied the price...:wall:
I was irritated by this because I try to be nice to the competition and refer a TON of work out because I cannot keep up with demand. Anyway that's my story I look forward to competing with such an "honest" businessman.

Has anyone ever had this happen to them? I just feel like a sucker for not being able to see he was lying the whole time also what should I do? I don't think legally I have any ground to stand on. Im trying to make this into a better situation by calling some of the other shops that I refer to often to let them know and even some of the others so that they do not fall victim like I did and hopefully I can pick up some extra biz for looking out for them.

Anyways I'd love to retaliate however I think that would just get me in trouble so I guess I will just have to dominate him detail wise to punish him for his actions cause I know he cannot get a shine like this!


]]> Detailing for dollars Showmob http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?56255-The-Snake-in-the-Grass-(a-copycat-story)