Collision Repair Business, the Internet, and website design.

Recently, Sheila Johnson requested that I take a look at her website: johnsoncarsalesandbodyshop.com and give her some feedback and ideas for either redesign, new ideas, what exactly to do with the darn thing. In her words:

"I don't care for it much but figure at least it gets me online"

So that is what I did. I looked at her site and responded back to her that I thought that her website is a prime example of websites that we see across the collision repair industry.

Too often I hear the same exact phrases from shop owners and managers about their websites:

1. I have to have one these days
2. I don't pay attention to it because it doesn't do anything for me
3. I don't know how to use it to attract new business
4. I couldn't tell you if anyone has been to my site or not

And the list goes on and on.

In today's economy and the even more competitive nature in our businesses it is imperative that we figure out how to make all the tools at our disposal work to our benefit with the least amount of dollars and time expense.

So, with Sheila's permission we are going to begin the process of dissecting her website and helping her develop an Internet presence that will work as a tool for her to generate new repair business, maintain communications with current customers, and market to past customers.

There are some rules though. The number one rule is that we will not share any proprietary information or strategic information that would conflict with Sheilas operations. Also, as we encourage your input we do request that if you have personal requests that you please send those to me or Sheila directly.

How is this going to work? First, I am posting questions in the forums here on collisionhub.com. This first question is already posted here. If you would like to participate in this discussion please answer the questions to the best of your ability. I am here to help but can only help if you are actively involved.

I will post new questions every few days. I will also post new articles in this series in this blog.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me here or send me an email: pdavis [at] collisionassistance [dot] net.

See you back here real soon.
Paul