Dear Janet,

I want to start up a mobile auto repair service doing minor repairs, oil changes, etc. What's the best way to advertise this business? I want to cater to businesses and private owners.

--Mobile Mechanic

Dear Mobile,

There are several things you can do to advertise this business. First, plan on advertising in the Yellow Pages. That is the first place many people will look to find services such as this. 

Use your vehicle to advertise your business too. If you use a van for the business, be sure the name of the business and the phone numbers is boldly and professionally painted on the side of the van. That way it's will work like a billboard to advertise your service any place you travel. 

Yet another option: get telephone directory that's arranged by street address rather than alphabetically. Make telemarketing calls neighborhood by neighborhood to introduce your business. Ask those you talk to - and your customers - for referrals to their neighbors and friends who could use your help. 

To get business clients, network at local association meetings. Also, put an ad in local association publications.

Good luck!

Copyright 2000, Attard Communications, Inc.

About the author
Janet Attard is the founder of the award-winning  Business Know-How small business web site and information resource. Janet is also the author of The Home Office And Small Business Answer Book and of Business Know-How: An Operational Guide For Home-Based and Micro-Sized Businesses with Limited Budgets.