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The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
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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.

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What's Next? [E210] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
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
Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great.
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/autorepairmarketingmastermindIn
To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify.
Don't forget to rate and review us!
Connect with Chris:
AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching
www.autoshopcoaching.com
www.aftermarketradionetwork.com
940-400-1008
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
Email Chris: [email protected]
In this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," host Coach Chris Cotton takes listeners on a journey through both his personal and professional life, offering a glimpse into the milestones and aspirations that shape his career. Chris shares the exciting news of his upcoming graduation, a significant achievement marking the culmination of 34 years of dedication and perseverance in pursuing a bachelor's degree. This personal triumph serves as a testament to his commitment to lifelong learning and growth.
As he looks to the future, Chris unveils his ambitious plans to develop a new educational series focused on the fundamentals of auto repair management. This series is designed to be a valuable resource for both new and seasoned shop owners, providing them with essential knowledge and strategies to navigate the complexities of the industry. By addressing key topics such as operational efficiency, customer service excellence, and financial management, Chris aims to empower shop owners to elevate their businesses to new heights.

In addition to his educational endeavors, Chris highlights his active involvement with Worldpac, a leading distributor of automotive parts. Through this collaboration, he underscores the critical importance of staying attuned to market needs and trends within the auto repair industry. By understanding these dynamics, shop owners can better position themselves to meet customer demands and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Chris also takes the opportunity to promote Shop Marketing Pros, a marketing company that specializes in providing tailored services for auto repair shops. He emphasizes the value of partnering with experts who understand the unique challenges and opportunities within the industry, and how effective marketing strategies can drive business growth and customer engagement.

Throughout the episode, Chris Cotton reinforces the theme of returning to fundamentals as a means to enhance business operations and customer service. By focusing on core principles and best practices, shop owners can build a solid foundation for success and create lasting value for their customers. This episode of "The Weekly Blitz" serves as both an inspirational narrative and a practical guide for those seeking to thrive in the auto repair industry.

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:08)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on auto repair business insights.

Personal Update: Graduation (00:01:09)
Chris shares his excitement about graduating after 34 years of working towards his bachelor's degree.

Future Plans and Opportunities (00:02:23)
He discusses contemplating his next steps now that he has completed his degree.

Expanding Services to Different Repair Industries (00:03:25)
Chris outlines plans to better communicate the services offered to various types of repair shops.

Worldpac Involvement and Upcoming Events (00:04:41)
He mentions his role in organizing Worldpac's events and facilitating smart groups.

Back to Basics: New Series Announcement (00:05:51)
Chris reveals a new series focused on fundamental auto repair management concepts.

Addressing Industry Challenges and Tariffs (00:06:59)
He shares insights on current business challenges and the confusion surrounding tariffs.

Business Performance Insights (00:08:01)
Chris discusses the mixed feelings about business performance despite record sales in some shops.

Call to Action: Finding Needs in Business (00:09:02)
He encourages listeners to identify needs in their businesses and stay tuned for upcoming content.

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Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Planting a Copper Beech Tree: Preparing for the Next 150 Years [RR 1001]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Scott Brown shares his profound journey through significant health challenges, specifically his battle with bladder cancer. Scott reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment and preparing for the future. He discusses the emotional impact on his family, the illusion of control, and the necessity of succession planning. Scott’s story is a powerful reminder of life's unpredictability and the need to cherish each day, encouraging listeners to take proactive steps in their personal and professional lives. Scott Brown, Cardinal Plaza Shell, Springfield, VA. Scott’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode The Illusion of Control (00:03:25) The Diagnosis Revelation (00:04:21) Assessing Succession Plans (00:06:52) Health Challenges and Recovery (00:07:41) Living One Day at a Time (00:08:25) The Impact on Loved Ones (00:10:56) Long-Term Family Planning (00:12:10) The Copper Beech Tree Metaphor (00:14:05) The Importance of Values and Legacy (00:16:07) Succession Planning in Business (00:20:36) Competitive Advantage Discussion (00:22:28) Emotional Impact of Health Challenges (00:26:24) Busyness as an Idol (00:28:39)
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: -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 Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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Inspiring the Next Generation: How Camp DRIVE Is Shaping Future Automotive Professionals [THA 386]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching, and Today's Class Tenise and Weston Chapman, owners of Black Hills Tire in Rapid City, South Dakota, discuss their initiative, Camp Drive. This hands-on camp introduces young people to the automotive industry through engaging activities like brake and alignment modules, electrical scans, and engine performance sessions. The Chapmans discuss the Camp's positive impact on participants, support from local schools and businesses, and plans for expansion. They highlight the importance of inspiring the next generation of automotive professionals and the enthusiastic feedback from both kids and parents. Tenise and Weston Chapman, Black Hills Tire, Rapid City, SD. Listen to previous episodes HERE Show Notes
Camp Drive Concept (00:01:50) Introduction to Camp Drive initiative, its purpose, and the importance of skilled trades for young people. Camp Drive Activities (00:03:08) Description of the activities and sessions at Camp Drive, including the waiting list for participation. Engaging the Participants (00:05:19) Discussion on the hands-on activities and the excitement of the participants during the camp. Parent and Community Feedback (00:08:31) Feedback from parents and the community regarding the impact of Camp Drive on the participants. Support and Sponsorship (00:11:02) Support from aftermarket suppliers, tool companies, and businesses, as well as the non-profit status of the initiative. Expanding Camp Drive (00:12:14) Expansion of Camp Drive to include more stations and activities, including welding and HVAC modules. Logistics and Community Support (00:14:01) Management of time and community involvement in providing additional experiences for the participants. Engagement and Participation (00:15:02) The engagement of participants and the approach to ensuring their focus and involvement during the camp activities. The smiling and excited kids (00:15:42) A discussion about a young participant's enthusiasm and transformation during the camp. Interviewing students and industry encouragement (00:19:13) The importance of encouraging young people to pursue careers in the automotive industry. Dane's experience and career aspirations (00:24:28) An interview with a student, Dane, who shares his experience at the camp and expresses his career aspirations in the automotive industry. Savannah's interest in welding and automotive technology (00:31:44) An interview with Savannah, who shares her interest in welding and her experience at the camp. The competition (00:33:22) Discussion about an upcoming competition and the number of teams participating. Exploring different stations (00:33:39)The various stations at the camp, including HVAC, alignment, scanning, engines, welding, changing tires, and changing oil. Learning about automotive skills (00:34:10) The participant talks about learning to change oil, spark plugs, and brakes, and gaining knowledge about suspensions and spark plugs. Impact of the Camp (00:35:24) A participant shares their positive experience at the camp and how they learned about it through radio advertising. Career prospects (00:36:27) Discussion about the potential career opportunities in the automotive industry and the high-tech nature of the field. Experience of a 12-year-old participant (00:38:09) An interview with a 12-year-old participant who shares their excitement about welding and other activities at the camp. Engagement and hands-on learning (00:42:49) A station leader discusses the engagement and excitement of the young participants and the hands-on learning approach at the camp. Community involvement and career prospects (00:45:17) Discussion about the importance of community involvement and events like Camp Drive to introduce young people to the automotive industry as a high-tech career option. Success of the Camp and future plans (00:46:30) Reflection on the success of the camp, the engagement of the young participants, and plans for future editions, including potential additions like a plasma cutter. The importance of engaging young people (00:49:42) Discussion on the need for the automotive industry to engage with young people to secure its future workforce. 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/ 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: -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 X (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
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio