Quantcast
Jump to content


Empower Your Employees: Implementing the 131 Rule for Better Problem Solving in Auto Repair Shops [E176] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz


Recommended Posts

Posted

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 episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching introduces the "131 Rule," a strategic framework designed to empower auto repair shop employees to become proactive problem solvers. The rule encourages staff to identify one challenge, propose three potential solutions, and recommend the best option among them. This approach not only fosters a culture of critical thinking and independence but also significantly enhances decision-making and customer service within the shop. By implementing the "131 Rule," employees are trained to take ownership of issues, analyze various solutions, and make informed decisions that benefit both the business and its customers.

Additionally, the episode delves into the broader implications of adopting such a strategy, including increased employee engagement, improved operational efficiency, and a more collaborative work environment. Coach Chris Cotton shares real-life examples and success stories from shops that have successfully integrated the "131 Rule" into their daily operations, illustrating the tangible benefits of this approach.

The episode also highlights other insightful podcasts available on the Aftermarket Radio Network, providing listeners with a wealth of resources to further enhance their knowledge and skills in the automotive repair industry. Furthermore, it promotes Shop Marketing Pros, the episode's sponsor, emphasizing their role in helping auto repair shops grow their businesses through effective marketing strategies.

Listeners are encouraged to tune in to "The Weekly Blitz" for more expert advice and practical tips from industry leaders like Coach Chris Cotton, ensuring they stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of auto repair.

 

Introduction to Supercharging Your Auto Repair Business (00:00:03)

  • Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its purpose for auto repair shop owners.

 

Promotion of Other Podcasts (00:00:45)

 

  • Encouragement to check out other podcasts on the Aftermarket Radio Network, including a new podcaster, Craig O'Neill.

 

Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:01:02)

 

  • Coach Cotton thanks Shop Marketing Pros for sponsoring the episode and highlights their unique marketing strategies.

 

Introduction to the 131 Rule (00:01:32)

 

  • Discussion on the need for employees to become problem solvers, introducing the concept of the 131 Rule.

 

Explanation of the 131 Rule (00:02:13)

 

  • Details on how the 131 Rule encourages critical thinking and solution development among employees.

 

Importance of the 131 Rule (00:03:32)

 

  • Explains how the 131 Rule shifts problem-solving responsibility to the team, fostering innovation and efficiency.

 

Implementation Steps for the 131 Rule (00:04:38)

 

  • Practical steps on how to communicate and train the team on applying the 131 Rule effectively.

 

Creating a Supportive Environment (00:05:49)

 

  • Emphasizes the importance of cultivating a culture that values independent thinking and celebrates successes.

 

Benefits of the 131 Rule for Owners (00:06:38)

 

  • Discusses how the 131 Rule reduces stress for owners and enhances decision-making efficiency.

 

Benefits for Employees and Business (00:06:49)

 

  • Improved employee skills and customer service through the implementation of the 131 Rule.

 

Real-World Application of the 131 Rule (00:07:13)

 

  • Encourages sharing real-life examples and role-playing scenarios to teach the 131 Rule effectively.

 

Overcoming Challenges (00:07:49)

 

  • Identifies common obstacles to implementing the 131 Rule and strategies to overcome them.

 

Final Encouragement to Implement the 131 Rule (00:08:23)

 

  • A call to action for shop owners to start using the 131 Rule to empower their teams.

 

 

 

 

Introduction of the "131 Rule" for auto repair shop employees.

Components of the 131 Rule: identifying challenges, outlining solutions, and making recommendations.

Importance of empowering employees to take initiative in problem-solving.

Benefits of the 131 Rule for owners, employees, and overall business efficiency.

Steps for implementing the 131 Rule in an auto repair shop.

Creating a supportive environment that encourages independent thinking.

Strategies for celebrating successes and providing constructive feedback.

Real-world applications and training methods for the 131 Rule.

Challenges in implementing the 131 Rule, including resistance to change.

Overall impact of the 131 Rule on customer service and satisfaction in the auto repair industry.

 

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

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
  • Available Subscriptions

  • 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.
  • Similar Topics

    • 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]
      NO SHOW NOTES YET
      The Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      #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
    • By MikesPlaceAuto
      Hello from Montana. Longtime mechanic/technician, first-time shop owner. Reaching out to many sources for information and advice. Small shop in rural setting, specializing in electrical and electronics. Thanks for any good words. Mike
    • By carmcapriotto
      So, you didn’t go to school for HR, and let’s be honest, hiring probably wasn’t what you dreamed about when you opened your shop. But here you are, needing to fill those bays and build a solid team.
      In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker is joined by Lisa Coyle of Promotive to break down what it takes to hire in today’s world, and spoiler alert: it’s all about marketing.
      From writing job posts that work to building a reputation techs want to work for, they cover everything you didn’t know you needed to know. You’ll discover why speed is your best friend, how your everyday shop culture is part of your recruiting strategy, and why treating candidates like customers is the game-changer most shop owners miss.
      Whether you’re hiring right now or just trying to build your bench, this episode is packed with smart advice, straight talk, and some seriously valuable insight into what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to marketing your way to a great hire.
      Hit play, and get ready to turn hiring from a headache into a strength. 👊
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you with this episode. RepairPal’s Certified Network of shops is trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at
      RepairPal.com/shops.
      AppFueled makes marketing easy. It’s a CRM designed for auto repair shops with tools like segmentation, reminders, and even a call center. Don’t wait—get started today at appfueled.com
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      Promotive
      Show Notes with Timestamps
      Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:01)  The podcast is introduced as part of the aftermarket radio network. Guest Introduction (00:00:10)  Kim welcomes Lisa Coil from Pro Motive and expresses excitement about the discussion. Personal Anecdote on Hiring (00:01:22)  Kim shares her first impression of Lisa at an industry event and their delayed connection. Marketing and Hiring Discussion (00:02:22)  Kim highlights the importance of marketing in attracting both customers and future team members. Childhood Reflections on Blue-Collar Work (00:03:31)  Kim reflects on societal views of blue-collar jobs and their financial misconceptions. Recruitment Challenges in the Industry (00:04:33)  Discussion on the shortage of skilled blue-collar workers and the need for effective marketing strategies. Understanding Headhunters vs. Recruiters (00:05:23)  Lisa explains the difference between headhunters and recruiters in the hiring process. Recruitment Process Overview (00:06:45)  Lisa describes the comprehensive services provided by headhunters, from job design to candidate negotiation. Common Hiring Problems for Shops (00:09:13)  Lisa outlines key challenges shops face, emphasizing the importance of branding and speed in hiring. Importance of Speed in Hiring (00:09:41)  Lisa stresses the need for quick responses to applicants to secure top talent. Marketing's Role in Job Descriptions (00:12:10)  Discussion on how marketing strategies influence job titles and descriptions to attract candidates. Optimizing Job Listings for Mobile (00:13:04)  Lisa advises shop owners to check how their listings appear on mobile devices for better visibility. Balancing Job Specificity and Attractiveness (00:15:28)  Lisa talks about the need to balance specificity in job titles without deterring potential applicants. Job Posting Strategies (00:18:28)  Discussion on effective places for shops to post job openings. Candidate Treatment (00:18:39)  Advice on treating job candidates like customers for better recruitment. Data Capture Importance (00:18:47)  Emphasis on capturing candidate data for future recruitment needs. Using Job Boards (00:19:55)  Recommendations on utilizing various job boards for recruitment. Applicant Tracking Systems (00:20:51)  Benefits of using applicant tracking systems for managing job applications. Building a Candidate Database (00:21:53)  The importance of maintaining a database of potential candidates over time. Social Media for Recruitment (00:22:46)  Using social media ads for recruitment and the challenges involved. Referral Programs (00:23:43)  Encouraging employee referrals as a strategy for finding candidates. Team Referral Incentives (00:25:27)  Impact of financial incentives on employee referrals for job candidates. Maintaining Candidate Connections (00:25:50)  Importance of staying in touch with candidates for future opportunities. LinkedIn for Hiring (00:27:15)  Discussion on the effectiveness of LinkedIn for hiring technicians. Marketing's Impact on Hiring (00:28:01)  How a shop's marketing affects their ability to attract good candidates. Consumer Reviews Influence (00:28:56)  The role of online reviews in shaping potential candidates' perceptions. Showcasing Company Culture (00:30:27)  The significance of showcasing company culture to attract talent. Careers Page Importance (00:32:55)  Discussion on the essential elements of a careers page for attracting talent. Website for Customers and Employees (00:33:44)  Lisa shares insights on designing websites for both consumers and potential employees. Showcasing Team Members (00:36:04)  Importance of displaying employees on the website to attract future talent. Training and Retention Strategies (00:37:12)  Discussion on the significance of training and retaining employees after hiring. Engagement During Transition (00:38:20)  Keeping candidates engaged between signing the offer and starting their new role. Making First Days Special (00:40:10)  Ideas for creating memorable first-day experiences for new hires. Responding to Negative Reviews (00:43:16)  Advice on handling negative feedback and its impact on employer branding. Reputation Management (00:45:24)  The importance of maintaining a positive reputation as an employer. Finding Pro Motive (00:48:28)  Information on how to connect with Pro Motive for hiring assistance. Closing Remarks (00:49:14)  Wrap-up of the episode and encouragement to listen to future shows.
      How To Get In Touch
      Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook
      Meet The Pros
      Follow SMP on Facebook
      Follow SMP on Instagram
      Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book
      Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By nptrb

      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.

    • 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.


      The Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      #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


  • Our Sponsors



×
×
  • Create New...