Quantcast
Jump to content

Recommended Posts

Posted

Even after 35 years in business, I am still looking for that one day when things go smoothly. Yesterday, Friday, everything was going fine. We were finished up a few big jobs, the schedule was filling up for next week, the weather was absolutely beautiful and everyone (including myself), was in a good mood.

 

Then it happened; The Friday afternoon nightmare. Just as the clock hit 5 o’clock, things began to fall apart. A brake job, just completed, had to be redone due to defective brake rotors. A BMW which was supposed to have been checked out for safety concerns now has a brake warning light on that was not discovered earlier. And the customer was told that “Everything was ok.” There was still one more car that needed a wheel alignment. With most of my techs leaving for the day, I blew up. “Hey, this 5 o’clock drop your tools and run has to stop”, I said.

 

I was upset, but was I right to say what I said? What I am about to tell you is not an excuse, but it needs to be said. As a shop owner for 35 years and someone working in the auto repair industry for more than 40 years, I have been through more bad days than I care to remember. I do try to be positive. In fact, I preach this to others. But, sometimes, even the preacher sins.

 

This morning I am sitting here typing away thinking about my day. It’s Saturday and my wife and I are spending the day with my daughter and future son-in-law visiting wedding venues.

 

So, when I really think about, yesterday may have been a bad day at the shop. But today is a great day in my life.

Lesson: put things in perspective and judge your life by the good things in your life, not the bad stuff that’s part of running an auto repair business.

 

Let’s hope I can take my own advice.

  • Like 1
Posted

Even after 35 years in business, I am still looking for that one day when things go smoothly. Yesterday, Friday, everything was going fine. We were finished up a few big jobs, the schedule was filling up for next week, the weather was absolutely beautiful and everyone (including myself), was in a good mood.

 

Then it happened; The Friday afternoon nightmare. Just as the clock hit 5 o’clock, things began to fall apart. A brake job, just completed, had to be redone due to defective brake rotors. A BMW which was supposed to have been checked out for safety concerns now has a brake warning light on that was not discovered earlier. And the customer was told that “Everything was ok.” There was still one more car that needed a wheel alignment. With most of my techs leaving for the day, I blew up. “Hey, this 5 o’clock drop your tools and run has to stop”, I said.

 

I was upset, but was I right to say what I said? What I am about to tell you is not an excuse, but it needs to be said. As a shop owner for 35 years and someone working in the auto repair industry for more than 40 years, I have been through more bad days than I care to remember. I do try to be positive. In fact, I preach this to others. But, sometimes, even the preacher sins.

 

This morning I am sitting here typing away thinking about my day. It’s Saturday and my wife and I are spending the day with my daughter and future son-in-law visiting wedding venues.

 

So, when I really think about, yesterday may have been a bad day at the shop. But today is a great day in my life.

Lesson: put things in perspective and judge your life by the good things in your life, not the bad stuff that’s part of running an auto repair business.

 

Let’s hope I can take my own advice.

why do techs have to stay over because writers promiss the world? That's what has to stop. Things happen like this all the time. 35 years in the business you should know. People will never be happy with everything you do anyways.

Posted

Its not the techs fault the parts were defective. Its not the customers fault either. Nor is it the shop owners fault. Its really not the parts stores fault either. Can we blame the machinist? The warehouse staff? The global economy?

 

The happy customer ultimately signs everybody's paycheck, and who makes sure they are happy? Hddm3, You expect to be paid for your hours worked but when the job isn't finished where's the money going to come from?

  • Like 2
Posted (edited)

I have felt like that before. But I don't force techs to stay. I immediately let the customer know there is an unforseen delay. I've stayed later myself if necessary. HOWEVER, I do make note of who stuck In there and who DIDN'T! When paychecks come around, I Round up for the tech that stays. When someone wants to bring their own car in on a weekend to use the lift, I'm conveniently NOT available for the tech that bolted. When there's extra gravy work unattended, the stuck around tech gets first dibs. I won't penalize for leaving. But if you don't look out for ME then I won't do anything EXTRA to look out for you. You work for your pay check, I don't OWE you anything else...no extras. It's life.

Edited by davine4real
  • Like 1
Posted

I just want to point out that the reason for my post was more to point out that we have things in our lives to be thankful for, and not to focus on the issues and challenges of running a business. My 5:00 reaction was uncalled for and not the way I want to lead others. So, the only person I was truly looking to improve and be accountable was me, not my techs.

 

But, I do appreciate all the great posts, Thanks!

Posted

I fixed the 5 o'clock problem.... I close at 4:30. Lol.

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Posted

This is why I don't promise any same day repairs, not even on an oil change!. Crap happens and auto repair is not a cut and dry process sometimes. If it's 5 and the job likely won't be done real soon then I will arrange a ride home for the customer and it's time to go.

 

I have enough signage telling customers that I don't operate as a drive thru (mcdonalds) repair shop that they don't blink when I say no guarantees on same day service. I tell them it will probably will be done but they better have plans for transportation to and from work and don't even think about holding my feet to the fire!

  • Like 1
Posted

I try not to guarantee same day repairs either.

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Posted

Excellent article Joe! I have been struggling with this myself, and constantly need to remind myself of how much good there is in my life along with the "problems"

  • 4 weeks later...
Posted

I know it wasn't supposed to be the focus of your post, Joe, but I thought some of the other posters might appreciate my thought on this...

 

We often speak to our staff about the level of service we give out customers, and I don't mean to imply it's a one-way street. My techs are reminding me about Mr. So& So, and the issues his car is having. They're quick to remind our service advisors that it's the PEOPLE we serve, not the cars. As a matter of fact, it's company practice to refer to the jobs for the day ONLY by the customer's name, not the vehicle or the type of service. (No one here will answer the rookie who asks who's working on the Ford Taurus, or who's going to get to put those spark plug in the PT Cruiser. In fact, the correct question is literally, "Who's taking care of Mr. Jones, today?")

 

My advice on the 5 o'clock bolt? We had a round table meeting with employees and suppliers alike, and here's what we agreed to as a team: The service advisors would respect the technicians' schedules, and assign work that could reasonablly be completed by 4:30pm, giving the tech a 30 minute window. Our whole team would honor the delivery schedules for the "last minute" parts emergencies, and not abuse the friendly nature of our relationship with suppliers by rushing them every other day at 4:30 for jobs that "had to go", and conversely, our technical staff agreed to staying as late as 5:30pm on ANY day, knowing they would of course, be paid, if it meant keeping a promise to our customer for delivery that day.

 

With each leg of the service triangle working together, and respecting one another...we're often out the door by 5 anyway, with most promises kept. In the instance that a tech needs a little more time, or the service advisor needs to keep a promise, etc....we talk to one another, and keep the peace.

 

Just one man's opinion.

  • Like 2
Posted

I know it wasn't supposed to be the focus of your post, Joe, but I thought some of the other posters might appreciate my thought on this...

 

We often speak to our staff about the level of service we give out customers, and I don't mean to imply it's a one-way street. My techs are reminding me about Mr. So& So, and the issues his car is having. They're quick to remind our service advisors that it's the PEOPLE we serve, not the cars. As a matter of fact, it's company practice to refer to the jobs for the day ONLY by the customer's name, not the vehicle or the type of service. (No one here will answer the rookie who asks who's working on the Ford Taurus, or who's going to get to put those spark plug in the PT Cruiser. In fact, the correct question is literally, "Who's taking care of Mr. Jones, today?")

 

My advice on the 5 o'clock bolt? We had a round table meeting with employees and suppliers alike, and here's what we agreed to as a team: The service advisors would respect the technicians' schedules, and assign work that could reasonablly be completed by 4:30pm, giving the tech a 30 minute window. Our whole team would honor the delivery schedules for the "last minute" parts emergencies, and not abuse the friendly nature of our relationship with suppliers by rushing them every other day at 4:30 for jobs that "had to go", and conversely, our technical staff agreed to staying as late as 5:30pm on ANY day, knowing they would of course, be paid, if it meant keeping a promise to our customer for delivery that day.

 

With each leg of the service triangle working together, and respecting one another...we're often out the door by 5 anyway, with most promises kept. In the instance that a tech needs a little more time, or the service advisor needs to keep a promise, etc....we talk to one another, and keep the peace.

 

Just one man's opinion.

 

I appreciate your opinion. Great post.

 

One of the other key take-away's is that everyone looks at things thru their own set of eyes. Your perceptive is your reality. So, we need to each other's view point in consideration. Also, keep the lines of communications open and promo-to the culture of,"We are all in this together."

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Available Subscriptions

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         0 comments
      It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
      While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
      Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
      One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
  • Similar Topics

    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      Are you truly a business owner, or just a well-paid employee? In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, dives into the critical distinction between running a business and simply working a high-paying job within your shop. Learn how to measure your hourly rate, assess your true profitability, and make strategic moves to improve your bottom line while working less.
      Key Takeaways:
      The difference between being a business owner vs. an overpaid employee How to calculate your true hourly rate (and why it matters) The role of profit in determining business health vs. personal earnings The trade-off between high profit and business independence Practical steps to transition from working in your business to working on your business
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS
      Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?
      It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.
      Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
      Thanks to our partner, Promotive
      It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.
      Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
      Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
      Email Hunt: [email protected]
      Download a Copy of My Books Here:
      Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop 
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      Welcome to another episode of Business by the Numbers, hosted by Hunt Demarest, CPA, with Paar Melis & Associates. This week, we're diving into the pros and cons of leasing versus buying vehicles and equipment, covering critical tax implications and cash flow considerations. Whether you're eyeing a new luxury SUV or financing essential shop equipment, this episode breaks down the factors that influence your financial decisions.
      Key Points:
      Leasing vs. Buying: Understand the key differences, from cash flow management to tax deductions, when deciding whether to lease or purchase vehicles or equipment. Tax Implications: Learn how vehicle weight (like the 6,000-pound gross vehicle weight rule) affects first-year deductions. Leasing Equipment: Discover why leases dominate the automotive equipment industry and how they’re treated for tax purposes. Cash Flow Management: Explore how financing options impact cash flow, both short and long-term. Real-Life Scenarios: Gain insights from real-world examples, like a $3,000 savings on a BMW purchase using dealership financing incentives.
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS
      Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?
      It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.
      Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
      Thanks to our partner, Promotive
      It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.
      Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
      Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
      Email Hunt: [email protected]
      Download a Copy of My Books Here:
      Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop 
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      Welcome to this episode of Business by the Numbers! Host Hunt Demarest, CPA, explores the recent IRS developments and what they mean for business owners, taxpayers, and accountants alike. With executive orders, funding cuts, and shifting policies, there's plenty to unpack about the future of the IRS and tax compliance.
      Key Takeaways:
      IRS Funding Cuts: The Inflation Reduction Act promised $80 billion for the IRS, but political maneuvering and budget cuts have significantly reduced this allocation. Commissioner Resignation: The departure of the IRS commissioner raises questions about future agency direction and efficiency. Audit Frequency Impact: With fewer agents and reduced funding, audits for wealthy individuals and large corporations are likely to decrease. Taxpayer Challenges: Delayed refunds, processing slowdowns, and a backlog of cases could worsen due to IRS understaffing. Emerging Trends: Discussion on potential international tax changes and the possibility of an "External Revenue Service" impacting U.S. tax revenue collection. https://www.projectfinance.law/publications/2025/january/trump-executive-orders/ https://waysandmeans.house.gov/2025/01/23/president-trumps-cease-and-desist-to-irs-protects-middle-class-families-and-small-businesses-from-irs-audits-and-weaponization/ https://moneywise.com/a/ch-synd/irs-asks-for-more-funding_1737633682545
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS
      Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?
      It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.
      Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
      Thanks to our partner, Promotive
      It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.
      Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
      Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
      Email Hunt: [email protected]
      Download a Copy of My Books Here:
      Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop 
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By Zenoo
      Hi my name is Zenas and I am 26 years old from Alberta, Canada. I started my own automotive repair shop in December 2023. After running it for 1 year I made a little bit of profit. I needed some advice on how I could increase it. Its a 3 bay shop with two 2 post hoists and one 4 post hoist with alignment. I am the only mechanic in the shop as I can't afford to hire anyone at this point. I am charging about $120 per hour for the labor and very minimal mark up on parts. The shop had no customer base when I got it so it took me sometime to build returning customers. If I try to increase the prices on parts the customers run away. Seems like they are calling around the city and going to the cheapest person. My monthly over head cost is about $7000. Whatever I make in a month goes back into next month's rent. Any advices on how to manage this properly from other shop owners?
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      Welcome to this week’s episode of Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest, CPA. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into how certain actions or oversights could put you at risk for an IRS audit. By understanding these triggers, you can better safeguard your financial health and avoid unnecessary complications.
      Learn about common mistakes like underreporting income and how they can put you on the IRS’s radar. Discover how gambling winnings and losses can attract scrutiny. Explore why industries like art, wine, and horses often face extra attention from the IRS. Understand why amending a Schedule C return can almost guarantee an audit. Tips to avoid an audit, such as maintaining accurate documentation and working with knowledgeable tax professionals.
      Stay informed to protect your business and personal finances from unnecessary IRS scrutiny.
      Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS
      Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?
      It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.
      Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
      Thanks to our partner, Promotive
      It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.
      Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
      Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
      Email Hunt: [email protected]
      Download a Copy of My Books Here:
      Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop 
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


  • Our Sponsors

×
×
  • Create New...