AT WHAT POINT DID YOU KNOW YOU WERE A COMPETENT BUSINESSMAN?
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By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog5 commentsI recently spoke with a friend of mine who owns a large general repair shop in the Midwest. His father founded the business in 1975. He was telling me that although he’s busy, he’s also very frustrated. When I probed him more about his frustrations, he said that it’s hard to find qualified technicians. My friend employs four technicians and is looking to hire two more. I then asked him, “How long does a technician last working for you.” He looked puzzled and replied, “I never really thought about that, but I can tell that except for one tech, most technicians don’t last working for me longer than a few years.”
Judging from personal experience as a shop owner and from what I know about the auto repair industry, I can tell you that other than a few exceptions, the turnover rate for technicians in our industry is too high. This makes me think, do we have a technician shortage or a retention problem? Have we done the best we can over the decades to provide great pay plans, benefits packages, great work environments, and the right culture to ensure that the techs we have stay with us?
Finding and hiring qualified automotive technicians is not a new phenomenon. This problem has been around for as long as I can remember. While we do need to attract people to our industry and provide the necessary training and mentorship, we also need to focus on retention. Having a revolving door and needing to hire techs every few years or so costs your company money. Big money! And that revolving door may be a sign of an even bigger issue: poor leadership, and poor employee management skills.
Here’s one more thing to consider, for the most part, technicians don’t leave one job to start a new career, they leave one shop as a technician to become a technician at another shop. The reasons why they leave can be debated, but there is one fact that we cannot deny, people don’t quit the company they work for, they usually leave because of the boss or manager they work for.
Put yourselves in the shoes of your employees. Do you have a workplace that communicates, “We appreciate you and want you to stay!”
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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 this podcast episode, Chris Cotton, an auto repair business coach, talks with Mark, owner of an independent European auto repair shop in Rochester, New York, that also does sales and bodywork. They discuss Mark's family history, including his father's move from Germany to the U.S. and his transition from diamond cutting to car sales. Mark recounts his own path in the family business, from washing cars to his current role, and the lessons learned along the way. They also delve into succession planning, with Mark's son Hunter potentially taking over in the future. Mark highlights the benefits of working with Chris implementation of a new service management system, and the positive changes in business performance and staff engagement. The episode touches on the importance of regular staff meetings, understanding daily business metrics, and the joy of family involvement in the business. It concludes with personal anecdotes about family meals and the cultural heritage that enriches their lives.
The background of Mark's family (00:00:05) Mark talks about his father's journey from Germany to the United States and their family background. Mark's family's journey in the auto repair business (00:02:05) Mark shares the story of his family's involvement in the auto repair business, including their transition from sales to service. Mark's father's journey in the auto industry (00:04:08) Mark details his father's experiences in the car industry, from working at a BMW dealership to starting his own car sales business. Mark's connection to European cars (00:10:52) Mark discusses his family's deep connection to European cars, particularly Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen. Mark's journey in the auto repair business (00:14:48) Mark reflects on his journey in the auto repair business, from washing cars to becoming a service advisor and learning to buy cars at auctions. Car Sales and Sunroof Surprise (00:19:22) Mark recalls a car sales experience and his father's tough love and succession plan. Auto Auction and Nostalgia (00:21:29) Chris shares his experience working at an auto auction, and both speakers reminisce about the excitement of auctions. Transition and Succession Plan (00:23:16) Mark discusses his role in the business and the prolonged transition plan from his father. Family Involvement and Future Plans (00:25:43) Mark talks about family members' roles in the business and his son's potential as a service manager. Succession Planning and Family Dynamics (00:29:31) Mark emphasizes the importance of communication and close relationships in succession planning. Future of the Business and Retirement (00:34:14) Mark discusses his long-term plans for the business and his reluctance to fully retire. Family Living Arrangements (00:36:40) Mark shares that his mother still lives in the family home, and he and his wife live next door. Each timestamp is followed by a short description of the topics covered in the corresponding segment of the podcast episode. Family and Business History (00:37:29) Discussion about family's daily routine and plans for creating a slideshow of old pictures for the website. Transition to New Location and Succession Plan (00:38:19) Mark mentions the upcoming 40th anniversary at the new location and transitions to discussing their decision to change service management systems. Transition to Auto Leap Service Management System (00:39:13) Mark's decision to switch to Auto Leap, initial challenges, and his encounter with Chris Cotton's podcast. Initial Meeting and Decision to Work with Chris (00:43:40) Mark's initial meeting with Chris at a convention, initial reluctance to work with a coach, and the decision to start working with Chris. Impact of Coaching on Business (00:45:48) Positive impact of coaching on business performance, particularly in December and January, and how it has improved their outlook for the year. Benefits of Coaching and 20 Groups (00:50:40) Discussion about the value of coaching, 20 groups, and the supportive industry landscape in Rochester. Shop Renovation and Growth (00:54:30) Description of the shop's renovation and growth, including the increase in employees and the focus on cleanliness. Future Plans and Idea Sharing (00:55:20) The anticipation of a productive year with many ideas yet to be explored and nurtured during the coaching sessions. Accountability and Responsibility (00:55:34) Discussion on the importance of accountability and responsibility in business ownership. Meetings and Regimen (00:56:37) The significance of regular meetings and a structured approach to managing the business. Future Plans and Succession (00:58:36) Mark's future plans for the business, including the involvement of his son and the transition of responsibilities. Family Traditions and Gratitude (00:59:22) Mark's family traditions, including meals prepared by his mother, and expressions of gratitude. Closing Remarks and Sponsorship (01:01:00) The conclusion of the episode, including acknowledgments and sponsorship mentions.
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 #riseandgrind
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
This week on Business by the Numbers, I want to talk shop and share insights that hit close to home for every garage owner out there. Today, I’m talking about an often overlooked aspect of your business - the true cost of inaction. Not just the dollars and cents you count every day, but the opportunities you might be missing out on.
• The Hidden Expenses: The not-so-obvious costs tied to decision-making in your shop. From choosing between internal work vs. retail work to the long-term effects of quick fixes
• Opportunity Cost Explained: Ever wondered about the cost of sitting on your couch instead of grabbing that $100 helping a buddy out? Opportunity Cost: It's all about what you're missing out on by choosing one option over another.
• Real-life Examples: From loaner cars to hiring decisions, I aim to illustrate how overlooking opportunity costs can have a tangible impact on your bottom line.
And hey, if you're hitting up Kansas City for Vision 2024, swing by and say hi. I'll be there, ready to chat and share insights in person. See you out there!
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
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
It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Great news, you don’t have to go it alone. 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]
Get a copy of my Book: Download Here
Aftermarket Radio Network
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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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 this podcast episode, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching highlights the significance of always saying yes to customers in the auto repair industry. He recounts two examples where service advisors faced challenges in agreeing to customer requests. Cotton stresses the importance of customer satisfaction and the delicate balance of agreeing to customer demands without making unrealistic promises.
Saying Yes to Customers (00:02:36) Importance of prioritizing customer satisfaction and finding ways to say yes instead of no.
Handling Customer Requests (00:03:45) Addressing an instance where a service advisor struggled to manage customer expectations and deliver on promises.
Customer Service Skills (00:05:54) Emphasizing the need to take care of the customer, manage expectations, and avoid overpromising while saying yes.
Saying Yes and Managing Expectations (00:10:11) Discussing the importance of saying yes to customers while managing expectations and not overpromising.
1. Importance of not saying no to customers in the auto repair business
2. Instances of a service advisor struggling to say yes to customers
3. Emphasizing the need to prioritize customer satisfaction
4.Managing expectations while saying yes to customers
5.Not overpromising to customers
Quotes:
Coach Chris Cotton', '00:06:54', "How would you like it if you were leaving town in 24 hours and somebody said, 'Oh, you can't take your car because we can't finish it up'? It's just not the right place to be in."
'Coach Chris Cotton', '00:09:14', "The customer doesn't care about any of that; the customer just wants to know if you can help them or not."
'Coach Chris Cotton', '00:12:16', "If they're in front of you unexpectedly, say yes, smile, and be like, 'Oh, I'm so glad, Mrs. Johnson, that you're here today. I haven't seen you in a while. Absolutely, we'll take care of your crisis for you.'"
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
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com
Matt Fanslow and Tanner Brandt discuss the nuances of automotive training and education. They emphasize the importance of selecting relevant classes that address specific areas of struggle within the industry, such as diagnosing parasitic battery drains. They highlight the complexities of troubleshooting and the limitations of current diagnostic tools, underscoring the need for better vehicle monitoring. The conversation also touches on the importance of networking and knowledge sharing, as well as the value of stepping out of one's comfort zone to explore new areas of learning at training events.
Importance of selecting classes and getting the most out of training events in the automotive industry Choosing classes based on areas of struggle and seeking advice from experienced instructors Different phases of attending training events Value of soft skills and communication courses in the automotive industry Impact of quality training programs offered by NAPA Importance of ongoing training to keep up with evolving vehicle technology Importance of specialized training, particularly in the area of electric vehicles (EVs) Value of specialty classes focused on specific vehicle brands Importance of networking and staying engaged during training events Challenges faced in diagnosing automotive issues, particularly related to parasitic battery drains
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com
Email Matt: [email protected]
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE
Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Insights to the Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2024 Class “Which Scan Tool Should I Buy?" on Thursday, February, 29, from 1pm-5pm. Our panel discusses the importance of tailoring scan tool recommendations to a technician's specific needs, including the car lines they work on, their budget, and the features they require. Don't sit on the value of seeking advice from experienced users and trainers to make informed decisions. Justin Morgan LMV Bavarian Technical Support and Trainer, ASE-Wave Technical Ambassador. Justin’s Previous Episode HERE. Tanner Brandt, Autodiag Clinic. Tanner’s previous episodes HERE. Scott Shotton, The Driveability Guys. Scott’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes
Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/ Which Scan Tool Should I Buy? Thursday, February 29, 2024, 1pm-5pm Importance of proper training (00:01:18) The need for proper training in understanding the capabilities and limitations of scan tools. Factors to consider when recommending a scan tool (00:04:35) Questions to ask when recommending a scan tool, including car lines, functionalities, and budget considerations. Impact of feedback on scan tool development (00:06:08) Discussion on the importance of feedback from users and the impact of feedback on the development and availability of scan tools. Remote access and networking (00:10:02) The benefits of remote access for professional tech support and peer-to-peer networking among technicians. Understanding the capabilities of scan tools (00:13:34) Discussion on the importance of understanding the capabilities and limitations of scan tools before making a purchase. Importance of Proper Training (00:19:42) The importance of proper training before investing in tools and the impact of buying from industry-connected vendors. The Value of Support (00:22:04) The significance of having support when using tools, illustrated by a story about receiving support for a scope issue. Learning Methods (00:25:30) Discussion on different training methods, with a focus on the effectiveness of hands-on and in-person training. Virtual Training Challenges (00:26:51) The challenges of virtual training and the importance of in-person training to understand diagnostic processes. Hybrid Training Approach (00:32:08) Exploring the idea of a hybrid training approach combining virtual classes and hands-on sessions for better learning. Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX and NAPA TRACS Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2024. Mark your calendar now … November 5th-7th, 2024. AAPEX - Now more than ever. And don’t miss the next free AAPEX webinar. Register now at http://AAPEXSHOW.COM/WEBINAR 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/ Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -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 Twitter: 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 -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
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