Auto Show, Cars & Coffee and Car Cruise Etiquette

**Niko Molina** · 02-11-2015, 03:04 AM

So, the car show season is just around the corner for us northerners, it may been going on all year round for some, but it's about kick off up here in Ohio in April.

My question is, how do you get your name out there at these events without sounding desperate, annoying or on the other hand, how do make sure you aren't forgettable? Do you pay for a booth, have info and maybe some products? Do you walk around and introduce yourself to each car owner at the show leave a card? I just feel like at a car show there must be a lot of new car washers walking around trying to beg for business, I just want to know how to not seem like that if I go. Any info would be great! Thanks!

(this was taken from a post made on a Facebook group of detailers by somebody else and I thought it was a good enough question that it was Autogeek-post worthy!)

**fotomatt1** · 02-13-2015, 02:52 PM

Good question! I'd like to hear everybody's input for this one as well!

Mike Phillips · 02-13-2015, 03:15 PM

This question has come up in the past and I know I've written out a "probably" detailed reply.

Trying to think of the right key search words to Google to find the thread.

Hmm.....

**thebamboo23** · 02-13-2015, 05:58 PM

people on forums wil talk about those shows/meets on the forums.

Make sure you're on the forums engaging with those people adding value

People will also use the hashtag on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter... go through the photos and just add value to the conversation

Run a giveaway specifically for the show/meet

**swanicyouth** · 02-13-2015, 06:29 PM

Someone should write an article "The Politics of Car Shows" lol.

**FUNX650** · 02-13-2015, 07:50 PM

I think of Car Shows as festive occasions. Ergo:
The only thing I buy at Car Shows is "festival food".

Taking-a-stab at selling me some other service/product,
will result in being reciprocated-in-kind.

Yours Truly,

(aka: Big Belly Man)

**dcjredline** · 02-13-2015, 07:53 PM

One thing I really don't like as a patron of a car show is coming back to my car and having the front seat full of flyers!!!!! Can't stand that.

Sent from my XT1030 using AG Online

**MPBGT** · 02-13-2015, 09:37 PM

I would think that you would want to do a booth with some hands on demos for people to watch. Also it would not hurt to walk around and talk to people about their cars. Just remember perfect paint is not everyone's first priority at car shows.

I go to car shows often, I usually toss out all the flyers that pile up on my seat.

**Klasse Act** · 02-13-2015, 10:26 PM

Originally Posted by swanicyouth

Someone should write an article "The Politics of Car Shows" lol.

Ain't that the truth!

**Niko Molina** · 02-14-2015, 04:44 PM

Some replies from detailers on that Facebook group where the question was original posted:

Originally Posted by Jordan Lee

I personally would go around, introduce yourself and just be really nice. Show them respect and just ask them about their car to get a conversation going. Tell them what you do, cars that you've worked on but don't try to make the whole conversation on detailing and on yourself. Show them interest in them, their car(s) and stuff like that. At the end of the conversation tell them if they need anything here's my card, feel free to call me at anytime. Stuff like that.

Originally Posted by Scott Race

I would pay for a booth and setup test panels and interior coated items. Do demos and show people how and why these products work. Don't be pushy and just show how you can add value.

I would also maybe do a raffle and collect names, e-mails and phones. Maybe some nice microfibers, ONR, bucket and grit guard. A maintenance wash kit since that's the level of dirt on most of these vehicles. Make sure to give them an hour or so of your time, showing and teaching them how to use the kit.

Originally Posted by Chris Chandler

Convince your customers to bring their cars to the events. In addition to sponsoring and volunteering at the local C&C I have several customers who frequent the event. I have received a fair amount of business because someone comments on those vehicles and my customers are quick to introduce me. You are right about just being one of the many drooling "car washers". Don't come across as one. Compliment their car and have a normal conversation. With practice you will learn the cues of when to bring up your business.