Professional Detailing. How to get started ?

[Red 4]

The initial message was deleted from this topic on 23 December 2012 at 00:14

[Mr2Mike]

Have you actually started a proper registered business and do you have insurance etc?

[sawman]

Have you got a website? A gallery with pics of jobs done (before and afters) is pretty compelling.

I would imagine that it does take time to develop a reputation. Do you have any connection with a car club? it might be worth finding out were local classic car clubs meet - eg local TVR or MG group. they usually have meetings in a local pub one evening a month, you could drop in and hand out some leaflets or maybe do some discounted first details?

I have just booked my car in for a bit of work with a local guy, following a recommendation from my local forum on here - initially the pics on his gallery impressed me, and then chatting with him yesterday confirmed my feeling that he is good at what he does, and meticulous.

[TonyHetherington]

Red 4 said:

The problem is that most people simply don't understand detailing and are happy to have their car "washed" for a fiver at the local scratchers. Trying to explain the amount of work that goes into detailing and what needs to be done to get decent results usually falls on deaf ears. I appreciate that detailing isn't for everybody though.

That is, ultmately, the problem which all detailers face - trying to show value in what you do as opposed to the quick hand car wash which costs 1/50 of the price and still makes the car look shiny.

You are not on your own in trying to overcome that battle, and that is why many detailers are not going through prosperous times at the moment.

[LordGrover]

Have a look at some of the established companies. I use Paul and Darren here: click.

[grand cherokee]

Mr2Mike said:

Have you actually started a proper registered business and do you have insurance etc?

insurance is critical - even the 'best' can make an error and get 'paint burn'

one suggestion if i may - maybe specialise - i know there is a shortage of detailers good on Range Rovers - and owners generally are prepared to pay for quality work - also if possible offer chip repairs etc

best of luck in your venture