Quantcast
Jump to content


Newbie in Southern California

Chucks Creations Autobody
 Share

Recommended Posts

Chucks Creations Autobody Apprentice

Chucks Creations Autobody

Posted
Posted

Hello everyone out there in ASO land. You will all become use to seeing my screen name all over this forum because I have a lot of questions lol. A little about why Im here. My father has been doing bodywork for 40+ years and about 12 years ago, he decided that he wanted to open up shop for himself. Business was up and down since and actually closed the shop about 3 years into it because it wasnt making enough to keep the doors open. It started because my father enjoyed what he did, and was very good at it... but didnt know how to manage a business. He was great at his trade, but didnt know what came along with actually running the business side of it. He was the only tech there and my brothers and myself lent a hand but could only do so much. He felt defeated at the time but wanted to try it again when the time was right. They opened up again in 2008 and moved into a bigger location in 2010 where they are at right now. Now my brothers are older and picked up the knowledge from my dad and have done well for themselves as far as getting customers. Problem is, there is no management in play. They know how to do the work and enjoy it, but the business aspect of it is wearing them thin since my younger brother has been stand in office manager/tech/painter. I see the potential in the business and would love to see it flourish so we can continue to build what my father had envisioned. I have a lot of goals and doing my research so that I may see them through. I came across a site that really put things in prospective as far as starting a business. It explained that many times businesses fail because someone gets the itch to open up for themselves because they enjoy something and want to do it for themselves... but dont think about the business aspect of it.. only the trade part. They called the "entrepreneurial seizure" and its explained as:

 

An entrepreneurial seizure is the moment the entrepreneur decides it would be a great idea to start his or her own business. It's when one believes that knowing how to do the work of a business is all one needs to understand in order to start and grow a business. So the accountant starts an accounting practice; the mechanic starts an auto repair business; the cook opens up a restaurant. They go to work, accounting, fixing cars, or cooking meals, none of which is the true work of the entrepreneur. In doing so, the person who starts his or her own business is lost in the teeming confusion created by demands he or she never anticipated...the demands of organization, the demands of cash flow, the demands of people -- employees, customers, suppliers, banks, family -- and so forth and so on. They are simply not prepared for the demands that are going to be made on them. The longer they're in business, the worse it gets. There is no vision; there is only being a slave to work and staying alive. The seizure is long gone, the entrepreneurial vision a vague memory.

 

And I believe this is what happens a lot. Which is why I know that getting feedback from experienced shop owners like yourselves, can only help with what im trying to do to get this business going. I am looking for workflow ideas for organization, management/estimating systems, I have Quickbooks and I'm working on getting the shop cleaned up and looking like a professional location instead of a pile of bondo dust lol (although I love the smell of bondo lol). I do have questions but feel that my "intro" has been super long and I mightve lost a few readers along the way lol. For those that have stuck around, thank you =) I look forward to feedback and to building "friendships" with my fellow ASO'ers . Thanks again for your time.

 

 

*** for those wondering the site that excerpt was from, its called www.e-myth.com ... highly recommend it for the newbies out there looking to start a business from their hobby just for insight ***

 

 

 

*** Gina

Link to comment
Share on other sites
Chucks Creations Autobody Apprentice

Chucks Creations Autobody

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Good luck and you are on the path. Educating yourself is the first step to freedom.

Agreed! I believe its the only way to go. Trust me, I am super excited to start this venture, but I've learned from others mistakes and am doing what I can to be prepared for the task ahead instead of just jumping in and winging it lol Luck can only take you so far.

Link to comment
Share on other sites
Chucks Creations Autobody Apprentice

Chucks Creations Autobody

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Welcome! These guys are really nice and very helpful.

 

Went to the website you posted, now looking for a copy of the book.

 

Yes!! It puts a lot into prospective! I'm easily distracted and impatient at times, so reading that book wouldve kept my attention because of the content but my ADD wouldve kicked in eventually lol So I opted for the audio that is FREE on youtube!! its about 8 hours but great to listen to the narrator emphasis on things. Here is the link for those that are just like me lol https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrqwYB2WUos

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

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
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

    • Joe Marconi
      Your First Step to Attract & Retain Quality Employees
      By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
         4 comments
      A recent study, done by Harvard Business School, concluded that the real problem with attracting and retaining employees has more to do with the workplace environment, not pay or benefits. While the study did find that an adequate pay plan and offering an attractive benefits package did help with recruiting and retention, it’s not enough to satisfy the needs of employees, especially those of front-line workers.
      The study also stated that in 2021, many companies were convinced that giving raises, sign-on bonuses, and other perks would solve the worker shortage problem and prevent people from quitting. However, this strategy did not work. So, what does work regarding attracting quality people and keeping them employed?
      Essentially, it all comes down to the culture of your company.  Management: do all it can to consider the individual needs of your employees. Your employees want to feel that they have a voice, that their opinion counts, and that their role in your company is both respected and recognized. Yes, pay and a great benefits package will go a long way toward making your employees feel secure, but that’s only financial security. People want more than money.
      To attract and keep top talent requires creating a company that people feel proud to work for. You need to reach the hearts and minds of your employees. Become a leader that people are enthusiastic about working for. You want your employees bragging to their friends and family that your shop is a great place to work!
      Step one to attracting and retaining quality employees: Create an amazing workplace environment for your employees!  Trust me, happy employees make happy shop owners too!

  • Similar Topics

    • Joe Marconi
      Many shops say Business has slowed up. Winter related? Or a sign?
      By Joe Marconi

      Premium Member Content 

      This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.

    • carmcapriotto
      "Accelerate Your Success: Why Independent Auto Repair Shop Owners Need a Business Coach" - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
      By carmcapriotto
      This episode is sponsored by AutoLeap. AutoLeap is a cloud-based all-in-one automotive invoice software that helps you supercharge your mechanic shop. Their customers have experienced:
      30% increase in revenue by improving transparency and trust
      50% reduction in time spent researching and ordering parts
      10% increase in profit margins through robust reporting
      Click here to learn more about AutoLeap and schedule a demo:
       
      AutoLeap Link: http://bit.ly/3GRgO88
       
      In this podcast episode, Coach Chris Cotton discusses the importance of having a business coach for independent auto repair shop owners. He lists 16 reasons why having a coach is beneficial, including providing accountability, fresh perspectives, and unbiased insight. A coach can also help with setting attainable goals, improving organization, and celebrating wins. Additionally, they can assist with growth strategies, financial management, employee management and training, and industry expertise. Coach Chris emphasizes that having a coach is essential for shop owners to achieve their dreams and take their businesses to the next level.
      Should You Have a Business Coach? [00:01:44] Coach Chris Cotton explains why everyone should have a business coach, the challenges of running a business, and how a coach can help you achieve your goals.
      Unbiased Insight [00:06:40] A business coach provides unbiased constructive criticism and insights that friends, family, and coworkers may not be able to offer.
      Fresh Perspective [00:08:02] A business coach can help you identify problems and solutions that you may have overlooked due to being too involved in your business.
      Growth [00:07:29] A coach can help you create a strategic business plan to boost growth, qualify your database, and generate leads.
      Balance [00:08:21] A coach can teach you how to balance your professional and personal life, encouraging you to take breaks and prioritize work-life balance.
      Employee Management [00:11:50] A coach can assist in building a strong team, providing guidance on hiring, training, and retaining skilled employees, and implementing performance management systems.
      Don't forget to rate and review us!
      Connect with Chris:
      [email protected]
      940.400.1008
      www.autoshopcoaching.com
      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
      Youtube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
       
      #autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Why Do Agencies Always Find Something Wrong With My Website? - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
      By carmcapriotto
      One of our listeners emailed in with the following question.
      I Always wondered why, when we have another marketing company review and grade our website, it always come out pretty crappy on the scorecard? From loading speed, to keywords, SEO, overall performance etc. I have used Lighthouse and some other things to gauge the performance, but the numbers never seem to match what the other party produces. I feel like some marketing companies use smoke and mirrors for selling their websites that really may not be any better than what we already have. I’m sure this is an issue for others too.
      We answer that question in this episode.
      Talking Points
      There’s a big difference between a solicited audit and an unsolicited audit There are no standards in place Much of what is done in marketing is based on opinion or an internal belief system Trust your “BS meter”  
      How To Get In Touch with Cinch CRM
       
      Website - https://cinch.io/ 
      LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cinchplatform/ 
      Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CinchPlatform/ 
      YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@CinchPlatform 
      How To Get In Touch with Shop Marketing Pros
      Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
      Website - shopmarketingpros.com 
      Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 
      Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Passing the Torch: A Father-Son Journey of Strengths and Learning [RR 847]
      By carmcapriotto
      Recorded Live at the TST Big Event 2023 with Andrew and Knudsen, father and son duo of Coventry Motors in Huntington Station, Long Island. They discuss their background in the car industry, their decision to start their own business, the types of cars they work on, and their succession plan. They also discuss the challenges of running a small business, including labor rates and finding new talent. The conversation provides insights into the rewards and challenges of running a successful auto repair business and the importance of continuous learning and adapting to changes in the industry.
      Andrew and Peter Knudsen, Coventry Motors, Huntington Station, NY
      Show Notes
      (00:00:39) The high cost of living and labor rates in Long Island, with diagnostic labor rates starting at $225. (00:02:00) Peter started Coventry Motors after leaving his job at a Jaguar dealership. (00:06:41) Andrew will eventually buy the company's shares (00:07:07) Peter and Andrew discuss Andrew's interest in the car industry from a young age and how he came to work at Coventry Motors. (00:09:21) Hiring and training employees, including using training videos and on-the-job learning. (00:10:16) Peter discusses his management style and how he improved productivity and morale at a Jaguar shop he had managed in the past. (00:14:39) Peter talks about how he is one of the few people in the business who can fix cars and deal with customers, unlike most mechanics who only fix cars. (00:19:57) Getting involved in coaching and how it helped them implement changes in their business. (00:21:06) The importance of regularly reviewing and adjusting the parts matrix to account for inflation and maintain profitability. (00:24:43) Peter and Andrew's biggest influencers in the car industry, (00:26:30) The challenge of hiring young people who are distracted by their phones and lack basic skills. (00:30:06) Peter's approach to failure helped Andrew become a problem solver and independent thinker. (00:31:45) Peter talks about his son Andrew taking over the business and how he is better at selling and dealing with customers. (00:32:35) The challenge of finding successors in the auto repair industry and the importance of having a passion for the work. (00:33:57) Andrew talks about his unique relationship with his father and the importance of not fighting change in a family business.  
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AUTO CARE
       
      Learn more about NAPA AUTO CARE and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting www.NAPAAutoCare.com
      Connect with the Podcast:
      -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
      -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com
      -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
         
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Where Did all the Cash Go? - Business By The Numbers
      By carmcapriotto
      This week Hunt talks about the most significant missing link between his clients that make money (rich people) and have money (wealthy people)
      • Is there a relationship between how much money someone makes and how much money they actually have?
      • What is your personal ratio, and how can you improve it?
      • If you have never saved money, how can you start setting yourself up to be more responsible in the future?
      • Is debt something to be avoided, or can you actually leverage debt to save more money?
      Thanks to our sponsor partner NAPA TRACS
      NAPATRACS.com
       
      Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
      Visit us Online : www.paarmelis.com
      Email Hunt: [email protected]
      Get a copy of my Book : Download Here
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


  • nptrb

    Extension of the IRS Lookback Period: What you need to know

    By nptrb, in Automotive Industry,

    0 comments 508 views
    Joe Marconi

    Quiet Quitting: New Phrase, Old Problem. Featured in Ratchet and Wrench Magazine

    By Joe Marconi, in Joe Marconi's Tips and Articles,

    1 comment 668 views
    nptrb

    Why We Do Bookkeeping

    By nptrb, in Automotive Industry,

    0 comments 592 views

  • Our Sponsors



Main Sections

More Sections

Discussion Forums

×
×
  • Create New...