Quantcast
Jump to content


Recommended Posts

Posted

I am a ASE certified master tech with my L1, master emission repair license , and state inspection license. I have worked at a Branded gas station for the last 24 years, I am looking for information on how to get started in my own shop. I wanted some input on how to do this if to get a service station or a repair shop . Also a realistic view of what it would cost to get started . If anyone could steer me in the right direction I would be appreciated . Besides obtaining a shop my other worry would be finding good Mechanics, I am a person that believes the work has to be done top notch , I can't stand people that guess or throw parts at cars nor people that gouge or rip customers off like selling 4 oxygen sensors on a car. Never happens, it is like buying 4 tv's at the same time what are the chances that all 4 die at once? anyway any help would be appreciated.

 

thanks,

S.M.

Posted

Move to western NY and work for me. You nailed the biggest problem in shop ownership - finding people that can repair cars and customers as well as yourself.

 

Sign up for some professional help on doing a business plan, that will enable you to answer all your own questions about regulations, advertising, supply/demand, cash flow, feasabilty, and so on but like I said all that stuff is pretty easy compared to finding excellent people to work for you.

  • Like 1
Posted

Ok, first of all, great post and the best of luck to you!

 

I hope this starts a lot of posts, because I am sure that the ASO members will have great advice for you.

 

Here is my advice. You need to have a plan. It's not enough to be a great tech. I was a great tech before I went into business and struggled for 10 years before I finally realized that it's your knowledge in business that's also important, not just your knowledge in mechanics.

 

You will need to have a clear understand of financial numbers, employee management and other areas such as marketing. Check and see if there are any organizations in your area, like the Chamber of commerce or a Small Business Organization that you can sit down with someone and discuss your ideas. As I said, you need to have well-thought out plan.

 

Learn all you can about business. The more the better.

 

Hope this helps.

  • Like 1
Posted (edited)

Where are you located?

 

So like Joe said, the plan will be extremely important and here's how you do it. How much do you want to make/year? The average you the business will take home is 25% of whatever your business brings in. Now do the math and divide it all up and see how many hours you need to bill/week.

 

Are you planning on having employees right off the bat? Renting or buying a shop? We need to know more of your plans to give you any real startup costs.

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Edited by phynny
Posted

The cost is COMMITMENT! The rest is Organization. You will need these things below for starters.

 

Goals - Clearly written and easily understood. What is the destination? What do you want to have?

 

Purposes- What is the fuel to this fire of having and operating your own repair shop. Is it greater security for yourself and your family? Is it because you want to travel around the world saving the elephants? You need purpose! That will keep you going when things seem arduous. That is the fuel to the fire!

 

Policies - Ethics and integrity. What will you stand for?

How will you operate? What will bring the greatest survival potential to the organization?

 

Also:

 

Reading, listening, sorting out information (useful data from non-sense), practicing, lots of doing toward positive results.

 

Owner/Executive Counsel

Manager

Technician

Pick one: If you try to be all 3, you'll be a one man show, even if there are other employees. If you pick 2, you will certainly be dispersed and overwhelmed sooner or later and from then on out.

PICK ONE AND BECOME A PROFESSIONAL AT THAT!

 

As for making money, that is the easy part, everyone makes money, some make more, some make less. Everyone has some, even if its only a nickel.The making money part will be a direct reflection of your COMMITMENT to the business and your goals, purposes, and policies.

  • Like 4
Posted

I appreciate everyone's advice! I am actually have a very good knowledge on how the station that I work at runs I was always very friendly with the owners and got to know the ins and outs of the business, until the station was sold to people who are just worried about money and not the business. I am looking to open a business so I can better my life, and have some kind of nest egg for retiring. I am not sure If a branded station or a repair shop is the way to go. I know with a station you can have a little back up with gas and store for the slow times. I really feel and have been told by many that I will have no problem doing it, I guess my main concern was failure. I think that is a normal concern though. I have lots of people that want to back me but of course I feel that those people really want to invest money sit back while I do all the work and collect off of the business, which I am not willing to do. I have seen to many "partners" fail. I hope this thread will continue to grow with all the great advice that can be shared. once again thanks for all the solid advice so far !!!

 

SKM

Posted

I appreciate everyone's advice! I am actually have a very good knowledge on how the station that I work at runs I was always very friendly with the owners and got to know the ins and outs of the business, until the station was sold to people who are just worried about money and not the business. I am looking to open a business so I can better my life, and have some kind of nest egg for retiring. I am not sure If a branded station or a repair shop is the way to go. I know with a station you can have a little back up with gas and store for the slow times. I really feel and have been told by many that I will have no problem doing it, I guess my main concern was failure. I think that is a normal concern though. I have lots of people that want to back me but of course I feel that those people really want to invest money sit back while I do all the work and collect off of the business, which I am not willing to do. I have seen to many "partners" fail. I hope this thread will continue to grow with all the great advice that can be shared. once again thanks for all the solid advice so far !!!

 

SKM

 

It can't really grow since we don't know what type of shop you are wanting. Location, number of employees, type of work are all huge factors in what advice we can give you.

Posted

well that is kind of what I am looking for advice on... I don't know weather a branded station or an independent repair facility would be best. I of course want to have at least 2-3 other techs there. I want to transition away from doing all the work I don't mind doing the diagnostics and getting keeping my hands dirty to keep the quality and work flow going , but do want to slow down a bit. I am in Maryland as far as exact location well Im not sure at this point. As far as work general repairs and maintenance . I am not looking to run a shop that swaps engines and transmissions out , I my self enjoy diagnostic work, no starts etc. computer related stuff, so basically a all around repair facility.

Posted

I would focus on location first. You know better than anyone what you do best. Focus on your strengths as far as the servicesun you will offer. If you have a good following you won't need a brand name. Just yourself and quality work to start off.

  • Like 1
Posted

I would focus on location first. You know better than anyone what you do best. Focus on your strengths as far as the servicesun you will offer. If you have a good following you won't need a brand name. Just yourself and quality work to start off.

That is what everyone tells me. I should just find a location that isn't too far from where I am now and once word gets out the loyal customers will follow. The thing is I now work 20 miles from where I live. Not a huge distance but I would like to get a little closer to home. I guess what it boils down to is I am afraid of how long it will actually take for the customers to find out where I am since I have been at the same location for 24 years and never passed out business cards or anything like that they just know where to find me and we have a service writer that is their main contact , although they do know me and that I do their work for them. So I guess I am mainly scared of loosing quite a bit of income till they find me. The biggest problem is I am 100% sure that where I work now will NOT pass on my new location.

Posted

I have done a little searching around, and it seems as if it is a huge feet to get a business going, what I mean by this is that to start with all the locations have a pretty steep rent if you want more than an empty hallway with a garage door on one side. So how would you be able to get a business going with out a huge chunk of money? I seems as if it would be impossible to start with out having some techs in line to start work as soon as you open. My case I don't know anyone at the moment I would hire . It would be nice to find a guy who has failed at the business due to poor work and being able to take over that business and grow it, but that seems to be something that is far and few . How did most get started?

Posted

I have done a little searching around, and it seems as if it is a huge feet to get a business going, what I mean by this is that to start with all the locations have a pretty steep rent if you want more than an empty hallway with a garage door on one side. So how would you be able to get a business going with out a huge chunk of money? I seems as if it would be impossible to start with out having some techs in line to start work as soon as you open. My case I don't know anyone at the moment I would hire . It would be nice to find a guy who has failed at the business due to poor work and being able to take over that business and grow it, but that seems to be something that is far and few . How did most get started?

If you are going to succeed in business, impossible can't be a part of your vocabulary. There's always a way. I was unemployed and broke when I started. Had less than perfect credit and most people telling me no. Started out by myself and put in countless hours just to get by. Reinvested every dime I made for the first year and a half and only pay myself the least amount I absolutely need to survive. Finally getting tools paid off and almost to the point I can start paying myself. Its a lot of work with little or no return to start. If I gave up at every road block or every time it seemed impossible, I certainly wouldn't have this business now.

 

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

  • Like 1
Posted

I would advise that you immediately sign on with a capable coaching organization and use them to augment your skills and experience. Don't try and go it alone. Everybody needs a coach. It will pay for itself.

Posted

I would advise that you immediately sign on with a capable coaching organization and use them to augment your skills and experience. Don't try and go it alone. Everybody needs a coach. It will pay for itself.

what do you mean by coaching organization? I know I am going to need help and a lot of advice . That is why I posted on this site to try to get advice on how to get started. I have gotten a lot of sound advice, but it is always vague advice. It is like someone asking someone how to drive a car and they hand them the keys and say "start the engine put it in drive and go" I'm looking for someone to point me in the right direction, such as bureaus etc. that can be contacted where I can get the guidance and information to start moving forward. I definitely don't want to come across as disrespectful I appreciate everyone's advice and input. I am just one of those people that want to learn as much as I can about something .

Posted

I have done a little searching around, and it seems as if it is a huge feet to get a business going, what I mean by this is that to start with all the locations have a pretty steep rent if you want more than an empty hallway with a garage door on one side. So how would you be able to get a business going with out a huge chunk of money? I seems as if it would be impossible to start with out having some techs in line to start work as soon as you open. My case I don't know anyone at the moment I would hire . It would be nice to find a guy who has failed at the business due to poor work and being able to take over that business and grow it, but that seems to be something that is far and few . How did most get started?

I started with no savings in the bank. Zero dollars. Every penny I had went into startup. My first day open I made $25.00, I repaired one flat tire that day. I spent the whole day doing maintenance and repairs on the property. My second day open I made $90.00 I think if not less. My shop overhead was approximately $10,000. a month in Long Island New York with no employees. Just mortgage, property taxes and insurances. I was sure at that rate by the end of the month I would be out of business. I stayed night and day with the lights on and the garage door open so people would see the shop open and know I existed. I did anything that came through the door. It did not matter as long as it was income. You know what? At the end of the month I made more than $10,000. Next month same story. This went on for months. I hired my first employee after a month and a half.

 

Then winter came, slow times were upon me, I thought I failed the public and they just weren't coming to me anymore. I was falling behind financially, overdrafts and all. A couple of late payments here and there and a huge drop in my own morale.

 

I pushed through. I had to look at myself and my past experiences and my determination towards goals I had set and achieved in the past that at those times felt hopeless. That helped me tremendously because I realized that alot of my past endeavors in life (academic, sports, relationships, etc.) started off in an apparent failing state because I didn't know what I was doing

but then turned into gains and victories because I was getting more and more able and competent. It took time to learn what was necessary to succeed.

 

_____________________________

 

 

Then all of a sudden business started picking up again. More than before.

The first 2 years were the toughest because they were the most unpredictable. By year 3 I could predict seasonal patterns and cycles.

 

In the beginning you will have to tough it out. There is no comfort zone. You need to get REAL SMART, REAL FAST. The faster you improve your operations, the sooner you will be successful. There are many lessons to learn and at least for me there were tremendous set backs and failures. Enormous fees and penalties. Money stupidly wasted. Tremendous amount of bad debt for the company, I believe my losses the first year were somewhere between $30,000 to $60,000. that I never collected for parts and labor due to my own stupidity and disorganization. But I, you, anyone must push through that stage. Everyone's business adventure vary's, but for everyone it's an adventure. For some people the adventure is a dream come true for others it's an absolute nightmare. But guess what? It's your tenacity that will get you through, not your hope, not your savings account.

 

Success is a choice, failure is a choice.

  • Like 2
Posted

I am a ASE certified master tech with my L1, master emission repair license , and state inspection license. I have worked at a Branded gas station for the last 24 years, I am looking for information on how to get started in my own shop. I wanted some input on how to do this if to get a service station or a repair shop . Also a realistic view of what it would cost to get started . If anyone could steer me in the right direction I would be appreciated . Besides obtaining a shop my other worry would be finding good Mechanics, I am a person that believes the work has to be done top notch , I can't stand people that guess or throw parts at cars nor people that gouge or rip customers off like selling 4 oxygen sensors on a car. Never happens, it is like buying 4 tv's at the same time what are the chances that all 4 die at once? anyway any help would be appreciated.

 

thanks,

S.M.

Selling someone 4 oxygen sensors is not necessarily ripping them off. In fact one of the models we work on if all 4 sensors are not done at the same time, the check engine light will come back on in a few miles. The last bosch article I read on the subject stated oxygen sensor life was 60,000 miles. If a vehicle has over 100,000 miles and you don't suggest 4 oxygen sensors, I think you are doing them a dis-service. Suggesting them and explaining why, is different than telling them they must replace them.

 

Scott

Posted

I am a ASE certified master tech with my L1, master emission repair license , and state inspection license. I have worked at a Branded gas station for the last 24 years, I am looking for information on how to get started in my own shop. I wanted some input on how to do this if to get a service station or a repair shop . Also a realistic view of what it would cost to get started . If anyone could steer me in the right direction I would be appreciated . Besides obtaining a shop my other worry would be finding good Mechanics, I am a person that believes the work has to be done top notch , I can't stand people that guess or throw parts at cars nor people that gouge or rip customers off like selling 4 oxygen sensors on a car. Never happens, it is like buying 4 tv's at the same time what are the chances that all 4 die at once? anyway any help would be appreciated.

 

thanks,

S.M.

Selling someone 4 oxygen sensors is not necessarily ripping them off. In fact one of the models we work on if all 4 sensors are not done at the same time, the check engine light will come back on in a few miles. The last bosch article I read on the subject stated oxygen sensor life was 60,000 miles. If a vehicle has over 100,000 miles and you don't suggest 4 oxygen sensors, I think you are doing them a dis-service. Suggesting them and explaining why, is different than telling them they must replace them.

 

Scott

Posted

Someone mentioned the local small business helpers and you asked for a bureau of some sort. Out here it is called score. Look on the Internet for small business help and you should find the local non profit that helps small start ups. Best of luck. Prepare to suffer. It helps if you expect the worse and hope for just enough.

Posted

I started with $700 and a desire to help people. In the 11 years since I have kicked. cussed, went broke, banked thousands, lost a good woman, quit, reopened, and cussed some more! I can tell you that location is important but people will come to you regardless of location if you are GOOD AND HONEST! I am now in a 2400 sq ft shop in a fair location and still it is a struggle! But with the help of friends (ASO) and by the grace of God I manage! Good Luck!

  • Like 2
Posted

Selling someone 4 oxygen sensors is not necessarily ripping them off. In fact one of the models we work on if all 4 sensors are not done at the same time, the check engine light will come back on in a few miles. The last bosch article I read on the subject stated oxygen sensor life was 60,000 miles. If a vehicle has over 100,000 miles and you don't suggest 4 oxygen sensors, I think you are doing them a dis-service. Suggesting them and explaining why, is different than telling them they must replace them.

 

Scott

very interesting Scott. I would like to know the Model you work on that the light comes back on after a few miles if all four are not replaced? I don't know of such a thing in my 25 years of working on cars have never seen this. The computer is looking for lambda and building a long term fuel table off of the short term fuel table (reflection of the o2 sensors) the rear o2s are primarily used by the computer pretty much as a monitor of the converters seeing what the up stream does in relation to the down stream, yes they can also show exhaust leaks post up stream o2s. I have my own personal vehicles with over 160,000 miles on both never replaced and o2 nor a converter on either. I follow maintenance schedules on vehicles at work, but I don't sell what they don't need. If it says flush coolant and the ph and coolant strength is good and the coolant is clean I leave it, if the cabin air filter or air filter is clean I leave it. I understand wanting and needing to make money to keep a business going, but lets also be fair to our customers. I am sure when you do repairs on a car and the manual tells you to do it a certain way and you find an easier way you do it the easier way right? Not following the guidelines of the manual . That is all these things are , guidelines then you must use your judgement of whether it needs it or not. Not by how heavy or light your wallet is on that particular day.

  • Like 1
Posted

SKM, Find a older owner of a honest reputable shop, see if he has a exit plan, which he probably doesn't, that will open up a lots of conversation, buy him out , let him continue to work. You have a positive revenue stream , money is cheapest we have seen in years. He maybe be willing to finance it for you. In Florida there are lots of shops like that. Just a idea. Good Luck

  • Like 3

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 Today's Class The "Great Correction" refers to a shift in the industry after a period of relative ease, likely due to pandemic related factors. The key concerns include a decrease in online searches for auto repair, rising costs, increased competition from dealerships, labor shortages, rapid advancements in technology (EVs, ADAS, AI), and the need to explore new revenue opportunities like key services, ADAS calibration, tires, and truck repairs. These issues suggest that the strategies that worked in the past may no longer be effective. Ryan Daily, Business Coach, The Institute Wayne Marshall, Business Coach, The Institute Fred Hule II, Business Coach, The Institute Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Introduction of Guests (00:00:00) Market Challenges (00:02:14) Customer Education Importance (00:04:01) Effective Communication (00:05:16) Listening to Customers (00:06:49) Value of Language in Services (00:08:34) Customer Trust and Attrition (00:09:21) New Car Sales Impact (00:10:20) Facility Appeal (00:12:26) Investing in Facilities (00:14:09) Profitability Challenges (00:15:17) Mindset Shift in Shop Owners (00:16:16) Value Proposition Discussion (00:17:21) Continuous Improvement in Service (00:18:03) Understanding Profit Targets (00:18:49) Shop Management Systems (00:19:51) Training Service Advisors (00:21:06). Proper Vehicle Inspections (00:22:01) Communication with Customers (00:28:15) Follow  Up Strategies (00:29:45) Educating Customers on Maintenance (00:32:15) Company Culture and Staff Engagement (00:34:02) Understanding Expectations (00:35:59) Customer Engagement (00:36:55) Cultural Impact (00:37:36) Continuous Education (00:39:30) Investment in Staff (00:40:36) Onboarding Process (00:42:33) Industry Transformation (00:44:38) Adapting to Change (00:46:31)
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/ Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/ The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/ Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By marxautocenter
      Hello everyone,
       
       Currently we use RO Writer and Auto Vitals to manage our shop workflow. It works out very well overall, but I'm looking for a way to keep track of daily/weekly shop numbers in a clean and easy to read format. We found it difficult to get clear numbers in RO writer, and use the punch in/out feature in Auto Vitals for time keeping (which limits our reporting features in RO writer). I'm looking for other shop owners who use this combination to tell me they way they keep track of their daily/weekly numbers, such as technician hours worked/billed, comebacks, declined work, sold recommended (and develop a ratio from declined work/sold recommended).
       
      I'm working on a Google sheet now, but I'm looking for opinions on what you find easiest to read, while limiting entering too much information multiple times.
       
      Thank you for your comments in advance!
       
      Cheers!
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners,
      RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops. Quality Car Repair. Fair Price Guarantee.
      App Fueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
      Dive into actionable marketing strategies for April with hosts Brian Walker and Caroline Legrand in this episode of the "Marketing by the Months" series. From leveraging Spring Car Care Month to hosting car care clinics, you’ll uncover creative ways to educate customers, build trust, and grow your auto repair shop.
      This episode dives into turning quirky national days like National 4x4 Day into engaging social media content and using VEDA (Video Every Day in April) to showcase your shop’s personality and expertise on camera. Plus, explore strategies to capitalize on tax refund promotions and seasonal maintenance trends that help bring in springtime traffic.
      Tune in now to discover actionable tips and fresh ideas to make your April marketing a success. Don’t miss this chance to fill your bays and grow your Shop!
      Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops
      Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your own customer loyalty app. Visit Appfueled.com
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      https://www.daysoftheyear.com   
      https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/ 
      https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-118-doing-video-every-day-for-a-month/ - Doing Video Every Day For A Month
      https://shopmarketingpros.com/how-doing-video-every-day-can-transform-your-auto-repair-shops-marketing-strategy/ 
      Show Notes with Timestamps
      Introduction to April Marketing (00:00:10)  The hosts introduce the episode and discuss the focus on marketing strategies for April. Spring Car Care Month (00:02:43)  April is highlighted as Spring Car Care Month, emphasizing vehicle maintenance and customer education. Car Care Clinics (00:03:11)  Hosts suggest hosting car care clinics to engage customers and educate them about vehicle maintenance. Vida: Video Every Day in April (00:04:55)  Discussion on the importance of video marketing and committing to daily video creation for engagement. Celebrating National Pickleball Month (00:07:44)  Hosts encourage engaging posts related to National Pickleball Month, even if not directly automotive. Honoring EMS Week (00:08:12)  Discussing ways to celebrate and honor first responders during EMS Week with discounts or special offers. Tax Return Promotions (00:09:55)  Promoting services around tax returns, encouraging customers to invest in vehicle maintenance with their refunds. April Fool's Day Marketing (00:10:48)  Ideas for fun social media posts and jokes to engage customers on April Fool's Day. National Ride Your Horse to a Bar Day (00:14:09)  Hosts humorously discuss the quirky holiday and encourage creative marketing ideas around it. National 4x4 Day (April 4) (00:14:45)  Celebration ideas for off-road enthusiasts and engaging posts for customers. World Rat Day (April 4) (00:15:18)  Discussion on celebrating the impact of rats on auto repairs. National Rita Roadmap Day (April 5) (00:16:12)  A fun take on roadmap reading skills among staff. International Pillow Fight Day (April 5) (00:16:27)  Humorous suggestions for a pillow fight as social media content. National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day (April 12) (00:17:05)  Ideas for a grilled cheese challenge at the shop. State Pride Days (April) (00:17:28)  Encouragement to celebrate local state days and community engagement. Tax Day and National That Sucks Day (April 15) (00:18:08)  Creative marketing ideas related to tax day and repairs. National Auctioneers Day (April 17) (00:19:08)  Fun activities like staff auctioneering for customer engagement. Easter (April 20) (00:19:40)  Ideas for Easter celebrations and community involvement. Girl Scout Leaders Day and Earth Day (April 22) (00:20:24)  Promoting community ties with Girl Scouts and environmental awareness. Clean Comedy Day (April 28) (00:21:38)  Encouraging clean jokes and humor among staff. Viral Video Day (April 29) (00:22:17)  Encouragement to create engaging videos for social media. April Showers Bring May Flowers (00:23:38)  Marketing strategies related to spring maintenance and vehicle care.
      How To Get In Touch
      Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
      Website - shopmarketingpros.com 
      Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 
      Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book
      Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 
      Questions/Ideas - [email protected] 
      Thanks again for listening to The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast on Aftermarket Radio Network. There are some other great shows on the network and you can find them at AftermarketRadioNetwork.com or on your favorite podcast listening apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and many others


      Tune in for another episode next week. Until then, go fill those bays!
      Talking Points


      General Topics for April:
      April showers bring may flowers - wiper blades, Aquapel, tires Continuing the theme from March Spring maintenance and cleaning Pot holes - winter damage Change back to summer tires Continue with the tax refund talk
      Days of the Year - Monthly Themes
      April is the first of the two National Car Care Months VEDA - Video Every Day in April


      Days of the Year - Weekly Themes
      National EMS Week


      Days of the Year - Daily Themes
      4/1 April Fools Day 4/2 National Ride Your Horse to a Bar Day 4/3 National Burrito Day 4/4 World Rat Day ⅘ International Pllow Fight Day ⅘ National Read a Road Map Day 4/12 National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day 4/15 National That Sucks Day 4/17 National Auctioneers Day 4/20 Easter 4/22 National Jelly Bean Day 4/28 Clean Comedy Day 4/29 Viral Video Day














      Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By Changing The Industry
      Episode 202 - A Conversation with Launch Tech's Haresh Gobin On The Future of Diagnostics
    • By carmcapriotto
      The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops.
      Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/
      Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind
      In the 200th episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton marks a significant milestone for the podcast by taking a moment to reflect on the journey over the past year. He shares personal anecdotes that resonate with the audience, including a heartfelt update on Kimberly, who made the selfless decision to donate a kidney to her brother, highlighting the profound impact of family and generosity.
      Chris delves into key topics that are crucial for auto repair shop owners, offering insights and advice that are both practical and forward-thinking. One of the main discussions revolves around the concept of adopting a four-day workweek. He explores the potential benefits this can bring, such as improved work-life balance for employees, increased productivity, and enhanced job satisfaction, while also addressing the challenges and considerations that come with implementing such a change.
      Another focal point of the episode is the distinction between commitment and mere interest. Chris emphasizes that true success in business requires a deep commitment, rather than just a passing interest. He encourages shop owners to fully dedicate themselves to their goals and to cultivate a mindset that prioritizes long-term success over short-term gains.
      The benefits of business coaching are also highlighted, with Chris advocating for the value of having a mentor or coach to guide business owners through the complexities of running an auto repair shop. He shares how coaching can provide clarity, accountability, and strategic direction, ultimately leading to more effective decision-making and business growth.
      Throughout the episode, Chris underscores the importance of professionalism within the industry. He stresses that maintaining high standards of professionalism not only enhances the reputation of individual shops but also elevates the industry as a whole.
      In addition, he encourages listeners to take advantage of the marketing resources offered by the podcast's sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. He explains how utilizing these resources can help shop owners effectively reach their target audience, build their brand, and drive business success.
      Overall, the episode serves as both a retrospective on the past year's achievements and a motivational message aimed at inspiring business improvement. Chris Cotton's insights and stories provide valuable lessons and encouragement for auto repair shop owners looking to elevate their businesses to new heights.
      Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:11)
      Overview of the podcast's purpose and the value it offers to auto repair businesses. Celebrating Episode 200 (00:01:08) Kimberly's Kidney Donation (00:02:06) Highlighting Episode 164 - Unlocking Greatness (00:04:21) Highlighting Episode 170 - Four Day Workweek (00:05:24) Preparing for 2025 (00:07:42) Highlighting Episode 172 - Commitment vs. Interest (00:08:46) Highlighting Episode 175 - The Pumpkin Patch (00:09:58) Highlighting Episode 180 - Profit First (00:11:11) Highlighting Episode 185 - Mom and Pop Shops (00:12:00) Highlighting Episode 186 - Coached vs. Uncoached (00:12:46) Highlighting Episode 187 - Project Alpha (00:13:05) Highlighting Episode 189 - Impact of Politics (00:13:55) Highlighting Episode 192 - Self-Obstruction (00:14:20) Highlighting Episode 193 - Being the Best Shop (00:14:46) Highlighting Episode 197 - Chris's Favorite Things (00:15:30) Looking Ahead to Episodes 201 and 202 (00:15:50)
      Connect with Chris:
      [email protected]
      Phone: 940.400.1008
      www.autoshopcoaching.com
      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
      AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae


      #autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


  • Our Sponsors

×
×
  • Create New...