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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
Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Recorded at the 21st annual TST Big Event, Robert Kenny Jr shares his journey from technician to mobile diagnostician and educator. Discussions cover the challenges of technician retention, fair compensation, and the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). Robert Kenney Jr., Ampd Auto Diagnostic Solutions, and instructor at Hudson Valley Community College. Show Notes
Robert Kenny Jr.'s Career (00:01:03) Overview of Kenny's career and his transition to entrepreneurship. Starting a Shop (00:02:24) Kenny's journey to opening his shop and the obstacles he encountered. Technician Training (00:03:20) The significance of training for technicians and its industry effects. Education and Industry Development (00:03:59) Kenny's role in automotive industry education and growth. Mobile Diagnostic Business Growth (00:06:43) The development of Kenny's mobile diagnostic service and its influence on small shops. Balancing Roles (00:08:00) The challenge of juggling teaching, diagnostics, and shop management. Technician Pay Issues (00:10:03) The problem of technician compensation and its effect on new talent. Accountability and Mentorship (00:11:17) The role of accountability and guidance in business growth. Admitting Failure (00:12:31) The difficulty of acknowledging mistakes and seeking assistance in the field. Mobile Diagnostician Benefits (00:14:16) Advantages of working as a traveling mobile diagnostician. Labor Rate Comparison (00:16:09) Analyzing labor rates and their significance in the industry. Flat Rate System Comparison (00:22:51) Contrasting flat rate systems in various shop types and their technician impact. EV Standards Development (00:24:19) Participation in setting electric vehicle charging standards and curriculum updates. EV Technology Importance (00:25:44) The significance and progress of electric vehicle technology in the sector. Training Importance (00:27:05) The consequences of inadequate training on businesses and the demand for specialists. Robert's Mobile Diagnostic Experience (00:32:12) Kenney shares his enjoyment and insights from his mobile diagnostic venture and time at Gill's Garage. Educational Programs and EV Training (00:32:17) Discussion on Hudson Valley Community College's programs and Bronx Community College's EV class development. Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network 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/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.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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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS and AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Industry shop owners discuss the challenges and strategies of opening and managing a second location. They explore the motivations behind opening additional shops, touching on wealth building, seeking new challenges, and planning for retirement. Carl Hutchinson emphasizes the importance of providing a growth path and career opportunities to attract and train the next generation of industry professionals. The conversation highlights the complexities of scaling a business and the need for strong leadership, financial planning, and a commitment to developing talent within the industry. Carl Hutchinson, Complete Automotive, 2 locations, Springfield, MO. Listen to Carl’s previous episodes HERE Kim Auernheimer, CS Automotive, 2 locations, TN. Listen to Kim’s Episodes HERE. Jim Fleischman, Automotive Alley, 2 locations, Arcade and Marilla, NY. Listen to Jim’s previous episodes HERE.
Behind the Scenes: New Shop Retrofit/Remodel with Carl Hutchinson [CC 097]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/cc097/ Store two considerations (00:01:01) Discussion on the importance and reasons for opening a second store, including financing and marketing efforts. Finding the second location (00:02:52) Panelists share their experiences in finding and choosing the location for their second store. Preparation and challenges (00:09:33) Challenges and preparations for operating a second location, including policies, procedures, and staffing. Systemizing and structuring (00:12:29) The importance of systemizing and structuring operations for a second location, as well as the challenges and preparations involved. Transition and training (00:15:14) Discussion on transitioning and training staff for a new location, including the use of a shop management system. Reflection and passion (00:17:32) Reflecting on the passion and effort required to start and grow a business, including the challenges of expanding to multiple locations. Store Number Two Challenges (00:17:56) Challenges of opening a second store, losing customers, ordering parts, and managing separate entities. Inventory and Supplies (00:20:14) Challenges in stocking inventory and supplies for a new store, unexpected expenses, and the importance of thorough planning. Financing and Cash Flow (00:24:43) Discussion on financing options, including seller financing, bank loans, and personal investment, and the impact of COVID-19. People Problems and Leadership (00:29:17) Dealing with turnover, hiring challenges, and the importance of finding the right people for leadership roles. Grooming and Growing Store Two (00:32:45) Balancing time and effort between store two and store one, empowering vice presidents, and the changing role of the company president. Building an MSO (00:34:48) Discussion on the motivations for building a multi-shop operation, including retirement planning, challenges, and personal growth. Creating Career Paths (00:41:26) The importance of creating a career path for the younger generation, fast-tracking growth, and training and educating employees. Valuing and Acquiring Businesses (00:47:31) Challenges in valuing and acquiring businesses, including the impact of market competition and the importance of assessing profitability. Equipment and Location Considerations (00:49:29) Discussion on starting from scratch, acquiring equipment, and the significance of location and infrastructure.
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, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching Proven Auto Shop Coaching with Results. Over 61 Million in ROI with an Average ROI of 9x. Find Coach Chris Cotton at AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching on the Web at https://autoshopcoaching.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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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS and AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching A deep dive into the SWOT analysis of our industry with a panel of shop owners. As we navigate the evolving automotive landscape, it's crucial to turn threats into opportunities, revving up for success. Andy Fiffick, CEO Rad Air, 10-locations, franchise. Listen to Andy’s other episodes HERE Greg Bunch, Aspen Auto Clinic, Transformers Institute. Listen to Greg’s previous episodes HERE. Brian Sump, Avalon Motor Sports, and Urban Auto Care, CO. Brian’s previous episodes HERE
Watch Full Video Episode The Concept of Mastermind (00:01:58) Discussion on the concept of mastermind, its origins, and its application in the automotive industry. The Role of Independent Repair Shops (00:02:47) The nimbleness and expertise of independent repair shops compared to dealership networks, and the need for better public perception. Challenges of Independent Repair Shops (00:04:49) The weaknesses and challenges faced by independent repair shops, including the lack of unified marketing efforts and lobbying. Perception and Marketing of the Industry (00:09:16) The need for greater respect and recognition for the automotive aftermarket industry, and the importance of effective marketing strategies. Courage and Self-Respect (00:12:36) The courage and self-respect required to succeed in the automotive industry, along with the need for transformation in mindset. Advancements in the Industry (00:14:35) The industry's progress and advancements, challenges faced by smaller independent shops, and the industry's value and fragmentation. Image and Perception of Independent Shops (00:16:25) The importance of image, modernization, and professionalism in independent repair shops to build trust and attract customers. Training Engagement (00:17:15) Discussion on the importance of owners engaging in training with employees and setting an example. Shop Management System (00:17:49) Importance of a shop management system for profitability and efficiency, and the support and training offered by NAPA TRACS. Auto Shop Coaching (00:18:00) The benefits of Auto Shop Coaching in redefining success and efficiency within a shop, and the importance of accountability. Owners' Involvement in Training (00:21:03) The importance of owners attending training classes and being involved in the learning process to understand and support their employees. Challenges in Attracting Talent (00:23:36) Discussion on the challenges of attracting and retaining young talent in the automotive industry. Opportunities in Change (00:28:07) The positive aspects of change, embracing new technology, and being first to market with innovative equipment. Industry Opportunities (00:29:58) Discussion on the opportunities for growth and impact in the automotive industry, despite challenges and competition. Rising to the Opportunity (00:30:47) Embracing the opportunity to make a significant impact in the industry through creativity, thought, and effort. Car Count and Economy (00:33:37) Discussion on the impact of car count and the economy on the automotive industry. Challenges with Car Maintenance (00:34:16) Issues with consumer awareness of car maintenance, including oil changes and service intervals. Barrier to Entry (00:35:29) The increasing barrier to entry for new shop owners due to technological advancements and specialized skills required. Consolidation and Opportunities (00:38:26) Opportunities for family-owned and independent operations amidst market consolidation and private equity involvement. Threats and Strategic Thinking (00:43:22) Discussion on threats such as constant change, aging technicians, and government involvement, and the need for strategic thinking. Future of the Automotive Industry (00:46:52) Optimistic outlook on the future of the industry, including the potential for strong independent shop operators to thrive. Mental Resilience and Rising Costs (00:48:31) The importance of mental resilience and adapting to rising costs as a key factor in the industry's success.
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, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching Proven Auto Shop Coaching with Results. Over 61 Million in ROI with an Average ROI of 9x. Find Coach Chris Cotton at AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching on the Web at https://autoshopcoaching.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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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS and AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Dive into the intricate process behind the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams. Sharing personal experiences as SMEs for the ASE exams, the panelists discussed the challenges and learning opportunities involved in the process. Matt Fanslow, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN, Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Podcast Bryan Pollock, Willco Auto Care, Sanborn, NY and Lockport, NY Scot Manna, ACDelco Technician of the Millennium. Scot’s previous episodes HERE.
Another ASE Rant [E091]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/091 ASE Renewal App Rant [E105]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/105 The importance of ASE test questions (00:00:01) Discussion about the extensive work and expertise required to create high-quality test questions for ASE certification exams. ASE's role in setting pass rates (00:02:07) Explanation of how ASE organizes workshops to determine pass rates and exam difficulty, with input from industry representatives. Challenges of writing test questions (00:03:30) Discussion on the difficulty of creating distractors and the extensive effort required to write and vet test questions. Role of subject matter experts (00:06:21) Insights into the qualities of a good subject matter expert and their importance in contributing to the test question writing process. Educational opportunities of ASE exams (00:10:46) Explanation of how ASE exams provide educational opportunities for technicians to identify areas for improvement and further training. Qualities of a good subject matter expert (00:15:36) Discussion about the qualities and skills needed for a subject matter expert, including formal education and practical experience. Experience is Key (00:18:44) Importance of real-world experience in writing test questions and the value of subject matter experts. Communication and Mix of Expertise (00:19:47) The importance of communication skills and the mix of engineering and field experience in test writing. Ensuring Fair and Effective Questions (00:22:41) The process of discarding or refining questions to ensure fairness and effectiveness in testing. Creating Plausible Answers (00:23:17) The challenge of creating plausible answers and the goal of not tricking test takers. Different Philosophies in Testing (00:35:19) Contrasting philosophies between the ASE renewal app and traditional exams, focusing on education vs. pass/fail. The process of taking tests (00:36:46) Discussion on the feedback provided after answering test questions and its educational value for technicians. Importance of continuous learning (00:37:42) Emphasizing the value of taking tests as an opportunity for education and the need for continuous learning in the automotive industry. Advancements in automotive technology (00:38:06) Highlighting the rapid advancements in automotive technology and the necessity for technicians to stay updated through education and testing. Responsibilities of subject matter experts (00:40:38) The panel discusses the responsibility and honor of being a subject matter expert and the importance of the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) organization. Challenges in writing test questions (00:41:11) The difficulties and learning experiences involved in writing test questions, including the importance of embracing voluntary certification. The impact of COVID-19 on training workshops (00:52:16) The loss of intimacy and networking opportunities due to the shift from live in-person workshops to online formats, with a plea to bring back in-person workshops.
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, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching Proven Auto Shop Coaching with Results. Over 61 Million in ROI with an Average ROI of 9x. Find Coach Chris Cotton at AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching on the Web at https://autoshopcoaching.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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By Joe Marconi
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