When you run your own business, there are so many things to worry about. In the case of car washes, you have to make sure you’re getting enough customers, you have enough wash fluid, your car wash equipment works and that you’re making a profit.
Some people might say you should also be concerned with media coverage. Is the media your friend or your enemy? Here are some tips on how to make journalists and reporters your allies.
Understand How the Media Works
Remember that journalists and reporters won’t come to you, unless there’s a story to be told. You don’t need to worry about getting media attention if there’s nothing worth writing or broadcasting.
That being said, you will attract media attention if something good or bad happens at your car wash. If, for example, there’s a major accident at your business, reporters and journalists will come running. Attention doesn’t have to be negative – you could hold a charity event, which would also be a good local story.
Take Charge
As a small business owner, your image matters. The good news is, you have control over that image.
You can reach out to journalists and reporters in order to gain publicity for your business. The advantage of doing this is that you’re not caught off guard when the media approaches you because something happened at your car wash.
Before you pitch a story to the media, remember that it has to be newsworthy. Examples of newsworthy stories include charity events held at your car wash or outstanding employees who go above and beyond the call of duty to deliver great customer service.
Be Calm and Confident
When you do talk to the media (regardless of whether that contact is solicited or not), you have to stay calm and confident. Reporters and journalists are giving you a chance to represent your car wash, so you want to make a good impression.
Remaining calm, no matter how the reporter or journalist tries to rattle you, is crucial. If you rant, rave or babble, it will come across in the interview and will hurt your business. Confidence is also important, because it shows that you know what you’re talking about and that you can be trusted. Your customers (and potential customers) want to know that they can trust you with their vehicles.
Get People Talking About Your Equipment
Your car wash’s equipment is what will keep your clients coming back and telling friends. This is where MacNeil Wash Systems can help.
With more than 30 years experience, we know what your car wash needs to be profitable. Learn more about our car wash systems or contact us for more information.