Dear John:
I believe you have a grand idea for a business! In fact, my brothers were
involved in car detailing for many years - one of them still does it!
You will need to look into all of the things that business owners have to
muddle through before they can open their doors. You can find a great article
about some things to consider at http://www.powerhomebiz.com/Index/checklist.htm
. You must create a business plan as well as a marketing plan so you know what
you want to do, what your goals will be, how you want to reach your target
audience; as well as to help you obtain financing or partners. Be sure to ask
an attorney and a tax advisor about whatever information you need to set up a
business.
One of the biggest things, from the sound of your message, is determining
how to reach your audience - or the people who you want to work for. The most
profit in the business can be found through used car dealers who purchase
automobiles at auctions. Most of them need immediate detail work before they
can sell the car and most of them purchase at a volume. You can start by
visiting with local dealers who do not have in-house detailers. You could also
attend the auto auctions in your area, handing out business cards and visiting
with the many dealers who come to make purchases.
Another place to look for customers is at the local truck stops. I am
remembering a huge truck stop outside of central Missouri that had
unbelievable traffic at all hours of the day and night. If your business were
mobile, you could service their trucks while they were fueling, showering
and/or dining! I would think, to do this, you would need to get permission
from the business itself. To do this, you may think of offering them a
percentage of your income from their business! That is a great way to get
permission as well as to save yourself up-front money if they asked for a
rental fee or vendor's fee.
The most important thing for you to do is to earn trust in the industry.
Get involved in your community and offer to do some charity work or donate
your services to needy not-for-profit groups. This way, you earn free
publicity while showcasing your talents. Be accessible, communicate to
whomever and whenever you can and enjoy all of it!
Best of luck to you - I'm sure you can make your dreams come true!
About the PowerHomeBiz.com Guide:
Tammy Harrison is a successful
home-based working mom for over five years. She holds a degree from Mizzou in
Consumer Economics. Her business focuses on Marketing and Creativity for
Small Businesses as well as numerous other small
businesses. For more information, you may contact her at