Do you need to be certified as a detailer? That’s a big question among business owners who are starting out. Unlike other trades, there is actually no requirement to have a detailing certification.
The barriers to entry to starting a detailing business are relatively low. Not only do you not need a certification – you don’t need much cash either. It can cost as little as $5,000 if you decide to have a mobile business without a physical location.
But, don’t be fooled. It still takes a high level of expertise and a lot of hard work to run a successful detailing business. Just because it’s not required for you to be certified doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider it. In fact, there are many good reasons to invest in education and get a certification.
There are a handful of training programs that can take your detailing expertise to the next level. Not only can a training program make you a better detailer, having a detailing certification can set you apart from your competitors.
Whether you’re just starting out or are looking for ways to improve, getting a detailing certification is a smart move. Here’s why:
1. Low-Cost Investment in Your Business
The International Detailing Association (IDA) offers a thorough detailing certification training program that costs less than $1,000 for members. The written exams and hands-on skills testing is completed in phases. The IDA has Recognized Trainers scattered across the country, making it convenient no matter where you live. You will have to dedicate a few days of your time to complete the program.
In the big scheme of things, this is a relatively small investment to take you to the very top of your profession.
2. Become a Better Detailer
The most successful detailing businesses are those that do the best job. Delivering quality service again and again is the key to success. Getting a detailing certification will be great training to learn what to do and what not to do while detailing. It’s also an official confirmation that you represent the best in your industry.
If you can carry out your work to the highest possible standards, then your customers will return and even tell their friends about your business. With the right knowledge and products, you can ensure you are being efficient and effective in your services. A detailing certification will also ensure you know the most up-to-date detailing methods.
The bottom line is—if you’re a better detailer, you’ll run a better business.
3. Set Yourself Apart from the Competition
Since detailing is a relatively easy industry to break into, anything that helps set you apart from the competition is helpful. If there are lots of detailing businesses in your area, having a detailing certification can be a great differentiator. When customers have the choice between a certified detailing business and one that’s not certified, chances are they will choose the one with a certification.
You can also use your detailing certification for your marketing efforts. A detailing certification shows your customers and potential customers that you work to the highest possible professional standards. It helps you communicate professionalism and trust. You can add proof of your detailing certification to your website, your Yelp listing, your Facebook page, your emails, etc. You can even print out a certificate and hang it in your shop.
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4. Help Raise Standards in the Industry
Right now, there’s not one standardized detailing certification that the detailing industry depends on. Anyone who decides they want to start a detailing business could start today if they had the money to do it.
This means there are huge differences in the level of knowledge and experience from one detailer to another. If more high-end, professional detailers get certified, they can help set and improve standards for the industry.
Eventually, customers will benefit too. If it’s expected that professional detailers have some sort of certification, customers will look for it when they’re shopping. They’ll know they can expect a high level of service from a detailer who has gone through a standardized certification.
5. Earn More Money
As with any investment in your business, the main reason to become certified is to help you earn more money. We’ve already talked about how having a detailing certification can set you apart from your competition and bring you more business. But that’s not the only way it can help your bottom line.
One of the biggest challenges in detailing is coming up with prices for the work you do. Often, detailers undercharge for their time and are afraid to raise their prices. Unfortunately, that means detailing businesses are not maximizing their profit potential.
Getting a detailing certification is one of the ways you can help justify your pricing. An official certification can give you the confidence to charge what your time is worth and increase your hourly labor rate.
Do I need to be certified as a detailing business?
While there is no requirement for a detailing certification, there are many reasons to consider it. Ultimately, being a better detailer means you can run a successful business and earn more money in the long term.
What detailing certifications should I consider?
Just because a certification could be a good idea, don’t sign up for the first class you see. Do some research to find out if the training is worth your time and money. You can do this by asking others who have completed the program and doing internet research. Don’t spend your money on something just to get a certificate if it doesn’t really provide any value.
Detailing training programs vary by how much it costs and how long it takes. Here are some trainings and certification programs to look into:
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