Learning the Dynamics of a Small Business at KC’s Car Wash
I’m Evan Schmidt, a senior at Temple University majoring in advertising. I started my internship at KC’s Car Wash at the beginning of the semester, unsure of what to expect. KC’s is a small, family-owned business in Havertown, PA, known for its quality car wash services and excellent customer care. What I quickly realized, however, was that this internship would offer me much more than just marketing experience; it would offer a front-row seat to the inner workings of a small business.
What This Experience Has Taught Me
My role at KC’s Car Wash is centered around managing their social media accounts and creating content strategies to improve their online presence. This hands-on work allowed me to experiment with different types of content, learn about customer engagement, and track analytics to assess what worked best. Through trial and error, I learned that understanding customer behavior online is just as important as providing excellent service in person. My internship also gave me a deeper understanding of how a small business operates, from revenue generation via membership plans and car wash services to managing the operational costs that come with running a business.
When I first started, I thought my internship would solely involve working behind the scenes on marketing strategies. While I did get to do that, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I learned about the operations of a small business. Seeing firsthand how everything is managed, from car washes to customer interactions, made me appreciate the complexities of running a small business. If there’s one thing I would’ve done differently, it would be to dive deeper into learning about the operational side of the business earlier on, as it gave me a more complete understanding of the entire process.
Positive Aspects of the Business I Discovered
Working at KC’s Car Wash opened my eyes to the positive and supportive environment that drives the success of a small business. Despite the challenges they face, like high operational costs and unpredictable weather conditions, the team at KC’s remains positive and focused on providing the best customer service possible. I also discovered the importance of customer loyalty programs, like the membership plan, which ensures a steady stream of income while offering customers a valuable service.
One of the best aspects of my internship has been the people I’ve met along the way. Charlotte O’Connor, the head of sales, was a mentor who guided me throughout my time at KC’s. Her ability to balance day-to-day operations with long-term strategic thinking showed me what it takes to make it in the small business world. I also appreciated the friendliness among the team members at KC’s. The work environment felt more like a family than a business, and it made the experience all the more rewarding.
Advice for Those Starting Their First Internship:
For anyone looking for an internship, my advice is simple: take the initiative. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, propose ideas, and step out of your comfort zone. At KC’s, I was given the freedom to manage social media accounts, create content, and analyze engagement, but none of that would have happened if I hadn’t taken the first step and reached out to offer my help.
As I wrap up my internship at KC’s Car Wash, I can honestly say that it has been a valuable experience that has shaped my professional growth. Though my career path may lead me into a different field, the skills I’ve gained here will be beneficial in whatever I do next. The relationships I’ve built and the lessons I’ve learned will stick with me as I continue my journey after graduation.
