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Stories from Gonzo's toolbox


Gonzo

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If you're in the business you more than likely have run across a few "not - so - level - headed" customers ... so have I. Instead of just standing around the water cooler/toolbox and tell these stories back and forth from one tech to another... I wrote them down.

 

My book, "HEY LOOK, I FOUND THE LOOSE NUT" was published last year and is now been introduced to the trade magazines. This is the latest one from AUTOBODY NEWS. I'll be doing a monthly column for them, and each month a different story from the book will be published. (the editor chose this story this month... he liked it...)

 

Each story is different from the last. They cover all aspects of situations that I have encountered over the years. Hysterically funny, and at the same time thought provoking stories.

 

This story isn't so much about a customer but about a situation we had with a customers car. It really happened, it really was a shock to find out what it was.

 

You can purchase a copy of my book from Amazon.com, or Gonzostoolbox.com, or Gossgarge.com. Check with your local book store, Borders can get it but not every store will have it in stock.

 

Great book for those times you only have a few minutes to read, and don't want to sit down for novel. Each story is only a few pages long... long enough for a laugh.

 

Enjoy the story, if you like it... let me know, I'll send more.... If you have a story let me know....

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Great funny story!

 

This convinced me...I'm ordering the book

Buy 2 copies Joe, that way when the customer is standing there wondering why you have this silly smirk on your face... just hand them the book... and say "Your in it...LOL"

 

Enjoy, I'll put another story up next month. Gonzo

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Buy 2 copies Joe, that way when the customer is standing there wondering why you have this silly smirk on your face... just hand them the book... and say "Your in it...LOL"

 

Enjoy, I'll put another story up next month. Gonzo

 

I will, I'll buy two. It's worth it. I may come by your shop to have you sign one for me. ok?

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That is a great story.

So I take it you will like to see more of the same.... got lots of them ... LOL

 

Pick up a copy, heck, pick up more than one copy and pass them out to anyone you know in the biz... it's a good book to laugh at ourselves and the business we are in. I had a comment left at a post a few months ago .. but the writer didn't give their name... they said "It's amazing how the author caught the technicians view and how funny people look when they are out of their comfort zone." Obviously... the person doesn't have a clue that I'm not only the author... but the tech... LOL

 

Thanx for reading my story... But I'm sure you can imagine my surprise when I found the ass jolter under that seat... man o man.. what a shocker... LOL

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I will, I'll buy two. It's worth it. I may come by your shop to have you sign one for me. ok?

Sure no problem, order it from my web site and I can send them out autographed right from my desk... LOL

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  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         13 comments
      Most shop owners would agree that the independent auto repair industry has been too cheap for too long regarding its pricing and labor rates. However, can we keep raising our labor rates and prices until we achieve the profit we desire and need? Is it that simple?
      The first step in achieving your required gross and net profit is understanding your numbers and establishing the correct labor and part margins. The next step is to find your business's inefficiencies that impact high production levels.
      Here are a few things to consider. First, do you have the workflow processes in place that is conducive to high production? What about your shop layout? Do you have all the right tools and equipment? Do you have a continuous training program in place? Are technicians waiting to use a particular scanner or waiting to access information from the shop's workstation computer?
      And lastly, are all the estimates written correctly? Is the labor correct for each job? Are you allowing extra time for rust, older vehicles, labor jobs with no parts included, and the fact that many published labor times are wrong? Let's not forget that perhaps the most significant labor loss is not charging enough labor time for testing, electrical work, and other complicated repairs.  
      Once you have determined the correct labor rate and pricing, review your entire operation. Then, tighten up on all those labor leaks and inefficiencies. Improving production and paying close attention to the labor on each job will add much-needed dollars to your bottom line.
  • Upcoming Events

    • March 24, 2023 01:00 PM Until 09:00 PM
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      Hi all,
      AutoLeap is hosting Amplify 2023, a virtual auto repair conference for shop owners, on March 24. We have 22 incredible speakers, and 13 industry associations and training institutes participating in this virtual event. The conference is free of cost.
      You can book your complimentary, virtual seat today using this link: https://bit.ly/3EXvfWY
      Amplify 2023 speakers include: Joe Marconi, Co-Owner AutoShopOwner and Elite Business Coach @Joe Marconi Aaron Stokes, ShopFix Academy Cecil Bullard, The Institute for Automotive Business Excellence Chris Cotton, AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Darrin Barney, Elite “G” Jerry Truglia, Automotive Technician Training Services Greg Bunch, Transformers Institute Jeremy O'Neal, AdvisorFix The conference will cover essential topics such as:
      Navigating through the current industry challenges Tackling the technician shortage through employee retention Creating memorable customer experiences Growing & expanding your business in 2023 Financial planning & KPIs to measure And that’s not all.
      The interactive, dynamic conference also offers live networking opportunities, and fun games and prizes.
      You can book your complimentary, virtual seat today using this link: https://bit.ly/3EXvfWY
      #AutoLeapAmplify23
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