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We Built the Building, But the Building Built Us – Tara and Dan Topel [AW 127]


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Guest Host and Shop Tour with Tara and Dan Topel, Topel's Service Center, Lake Mills, WI. Tara and Dan had a dream 15 years ago to completely rebuild their 2nd generation family shop.

Tara and Dan Topel, Topel’s Service Center Inc. Tara’s previous episodes HERE.

Key Talking Points 

  • 2nd generation
  • The building was built in 1948- needed new infrastructure. The conception was 15 years ago
  • Did all the planning through Zoom due to COVID, their builder was a first-time builder
  • Soon to be parts store next door that will be rented- 3,200 square ft
  • Took a full year to secure financing during COVID
  • Temporary location for 2 years
  • Created a shop facilitator position to relieve the service advisors
  • 10 bays
  • In floor heat- heated with waste oil boiler with 4,000 oil tank outside

 

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Check out today's partner:

Dorman gives people greater freedom to fix vehicles by constantly developing new repair solutions that put owners and technicians first. Take the Dorman Virtual Tour at www.DormanProducts.com/Tour

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  • 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.
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