A surge in the number of rogue auto locksmiths operating in the UK has led the country’s largest trade body, the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), to issue a warning to homeowners and motorists alike. Losing car keys is an alarming situation, especially when the vehicle is essential for commuting or ferrying children to school, so it’s unsurprising that car owners may panic and fail to check out the credentials of their chosen auto locksmith.
The rise in rogue locksmiths is also concerning for legitimate professionals. If automotive locksmith services gain a bad reputation because of the substandard service of a minority of businesses, it can be harder for you to gain the trust of customers in future. So, what can you do to promote and maintain your reputation for professionalism and reliability?
Ensure your credentials are visible
When hiring an auto locksmith, customers will often look for evidence that their chosen business is trustworthy. A reputable locksmith will clearly display their identification and branding to show that they work for a reputable company, for example through their business logo, uniform, and vehicle signage. Incredibly, the locksmith industry is unregulated in the UK, but professional locksmiths can be approved by the MLA, which ensures that customers have confidence they are dealing with a legitimate and qualified expert.
Ensure that you can prove verification
Rogue locksmiths often make false claims about certification or membership in trade associations to increase their credibility. As a professional auto locksmith, it’s your responsibility to verify your certifications or memberships, so ensure that documentation and registration numbers are freely available for customers to inspect. While, unlike a traditional locksmith, you may not be working in environments where vulnerable people, such as children, are present, possessing an up-to-date Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may also offer reassurance to customers that you take your responsibilities seriously.
Provide written testimonials
Online reviews offer valuable insights into the reputation and reliability of an auto locksmith and customers will often check these out before deciding who to work with. As a professional with an unblemished history of offering auto locksmith services, you should actively encourage customers to read reviews from your previous customers. Displaying positive snippets on marketing material is one way to promote your business but ensure that you have the permission of the customer who provided the comments before using them.
Be upfront about costs
A reputable auto locksmith will provide clear and transparent information about the cost of their services. If costs are confusing, or the customer is charged more than they expected, your business’s reputation can be damaged. Provide a clear, itemised breakdown of charges including VAT and, if there are any uncertainties about the final cost, explain the reasons for this to the customer before commencing work. This transparency will help you to avoid any dissatisfied customers and increase the likelihood of recommendations and repeat business.
Find out more
At Advanced Keys, we supply auto locksmiths with high-quality tools and equipment, including wholesale car keys, to carry out their work quickly and efficiently so they can deliver outstanding customer service for their clients. To find out more, please browse our website and get in touch for professional advice.