The value of local partnerships

At Safelite AutoGlass, we’re proud of our national presence. In fact, we’re the only auto glass company in the country that can make this claim.
The value of being national is three-part: anywhere a customer travels, they can find us if they need additional services; customers can expect a similar experience no matter the Safelite location they choose; and our size allows us luxuries such as national advertising and brand-building.
Yet, we cannot ignore the value of local partnerships.
At Safelite, we want to make a difference and bring unexpected happiness to people’s everyday lives. We do that partly by becoming a part of the local fabric of the communities where we live and work. We strive to be No. 1 in each market, while being seen as the local company that happens to have a national presence.
Our locally driven strategies focus on the following areas:
A physical presence
While many know us for our mobile service, we also have more than 800 physical locations. Store managers often invite their neighbors to a variety of events at our facilities such as new store openings with the local chamber of commerce, fundraising events and “block parties.”
We want to be known on a first-name basis because that shows that we are friendly and trustworthy.
Opportunities for social involvement
Nearly every community has a rallying point. For example, in our hometown of Columbus, that’s the Ohio State Buckeyes, of which we are an official sponsor. Buckeye fans are avid supporters and we can create an emotional connection to our brand by supporting their passion point.
Similarly, Salt Lake City is extremely proud of their Tour of Utah professional cycling race that highlights the beauty of their state.
Our local team sponsored the event, bringing forth opportunities for our employees — i.e., brand ambassadors — to interact with the participants. The feedback was phenomenal. In fact, so many visitors requested our service that we set up on-site repair during the event.
Meaningful support
Having a caring heart is part of who we are, so finding ways to contribute to the greater good is a natural part of our support — this includes civic and charitable efforts.
For instance, our Phoenix market is closely involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix. It’s not a one-and-done philosophy of giving back. Our people give of their time, talent and treasure throughout the year, which in the Phoenix market means hosting an employee-led “birthdays in a box” building event so the clubs can celebrate with their members on a monthly basis. Our local team delivers cake for each monthly party.
Similarly, our Contact Center team in Columbus has a monthly sign-up of volunteers for the Ronald McDonald House Charities. This year alone CSRs from this team have volunteered more than 1,000 man-hours for the Ronald McDonald House.
 

These are just a few ways our people make a lasting impression in their local communities. No matter how big or small your company is, consider: How can you best get involved and become part of the local fabric in your community?

 
Tom Feeney is the President and CEO of Safelite AutoGlass®. In his 28 years with Safelite Group Inc., Tom has been instrumental in establishing Safelite AutoGlass® as a nationally well-known brand. Since 2008, he has set the course for doubling Safelite’s business through two core principles: People Powered and Customer Driven.