Online work provision is a divisive topic in the aftermarket, but Checkatrade believes that garages are missing out on the opportunity to build their reputation and potentially generate more business. In this article, the company explains why the platform might be of use to PMM ’s readers.
Compared with other trades, automotive technicians are seriously under-represented within Checkatrade’s directory of more than 30,000 listed tradespeople. This means that garages that decide to lead the way can get a step ahead of the competition by listing their business as a trusted and vetted member.
Unlike other platforms, which focus on bidding for leads – creating a race to the bottom in terms of price – Checkatrade is a reputation builder that encourages potential consumers to approach tradespeople based on the portfolio of work and reviews that they have built up online. Customers know that to become a member, tradespeople have to pass a thorough and vigorous vetting process. More than 4.3 million reviews have already been posted to the online directory, offering honest and trusted feedback – there’s a reason Checkatrade has an ‘excellent’, 9.1 TrustScore rating on Trustpilot.
The platform was founded in 1998 after a tornado hit the small West Sussex town of Selsey. As a result, traders from around the country poured in to help rebuild the area. Unfortunately, some decided to rip off the inhabitants of the town. A local businessman realised that there was nowhere to check out the traders’ credentials, so the company that became Checkatrade was formed to end this ignorance.
To maintain a high standard amongst members, all new tradespeople must pass the rigorous vetting process, which includes, but is not limited to: identity, proving qualifications, credit checks, appropriate insurance, and previous customer references. All checks are completed by the vetting team who work through the process with all new members. Once tradespeople have passed these checks, they can begin to build their online reputation and will appear when potential consumers search for a trade in their area.
The Checkatrade Members Board gives trades the opportunity to help shape the future of the directory. Regional representatives are appointed every 12 months via a members’ vote, and they meet once a quarter to voice the feedback of their region’s members. This process of feedback is an integral aspect of Checkatrade’s growth and it helps to ensure that the platform is working for its members.
The Members Board is offering a unique opportunity to work with Checkatrade to tailor the service for the automotive industry. Join today and start growing your business with a £25+VAT joining fee, and then it’s just £69.99+VAT per month, with 12 months for the price of 10. You can also choose to be included in a local directory in your area, which is posted to 50,000 homes.
