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By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog0 commentsIt 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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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
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. I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors. 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/autorepairmarketingmastermind
In episode 205 of "The Weekly Blitz," host Chris Cotton delves into the themes of personal growth, overcoming guilt, and the pursuit of one's goals. Throughout the episode, Chris opens up about his own experiences, sharing the challenges and triumphs he faced while juggling multiple responsibilities. As a shop owner, Chris had to manage the day-to-day operations of his business, ensuring everything ran smoothly and efficiently. At the same time, he made the courageous decision to return to college, determined to complete his degree and fulfill a long-held aspiration.
Chris discusses the delicate balance he had to maintain between his professional duties and academic commitments. He candidly talks about the guilt he initially felt for dedicating time to his studies, fearing it might detract from his business or family obligations. However, through this journey, Chris learned the critical importance of self-care and the necessity of prioritizing one's own dreams and aspirations. He encourages listeners to pursue their goals with determination and to not let guilt stand in the way of their personal development.
Reflecting on his journey, Chris highlights the profound sense of fulfillment that comes from achieving personal goals. He notes how this accomplishment not only boosts self-esteem but also has a positive ripple effect on overall well-being, enhancing both personal and professional life. By sharing his story, Chris aims to inspire others to take bold steps towards their own dreams, reassuring them that it is possible to balance responsibilities while pursuing personal growth.
The episode wraps up with a sponsorship mention for Shop Marketing Pros, a company that specializes in providing marketing solutions tailored specifically for auto repair shops. This partnership underscores the episode's focus on professional development and growth within the auto repair industry.
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)
Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its purpose, highlighting its focus on auto repair business insights.
Sponsorship Mention (00:00:59)
Details about Shop Marketing Pros and their services for auto repair shops are discussed.
Reflection on Vision 2025 (00:01:03)
Chris shares his experience at the Vision 2025 event, noting the busy atmosphere among shop owners.
The Importance of Self-Care (00:02:00)
Discussion on the necessity of taking time for oneself as a shop owner without feeling guilty.
Overcoming Guilt (00:03:04)
Chris addresses the guilt shop owners often feel and the importance of prioritizing personal well-being.
Personal Journey to Education (00:05:02)
Chris reflects on his decision to return to college after many years, motivated by personal goals.
Completion of Degrees (00:06:03)
He shares the timeline of his and his daughter's graduation, emphasizing the significance of finishing what you start.
Lessons in Persistence (00:08:26)
Chris discusses the importance of completing tasks and setting an example for his daughter.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action (00:10:30)
Encouragement to pursue personal goals and a reminder of the podcast's sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros.
Connect with Chris:
chris autofixsos.com
Phone: 940.400.1008
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
Youtube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
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.
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]
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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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
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.
I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors.
Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great.
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.
I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors.
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/autorepairmarketingmastermind
In this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," host Coach Chris Cotton delves into the critical topic of enhancing customer experience within the auto repair industry by effectively merging cutting-edge technology with personalized service touches. Drawing from his own life, Chris shares vivid personal anecdotes that illustrate the profound impact of customer service on brand perception and loyalty.
He begins by recounting his contrasting experiences with two tech giants, Apple and Lenovo. Through these stories, Chris highlights how Apple's commitment to seamless, customer-centric service left a lasting positive impression, whereas Lenovo's lackluster support fell short of expectations. These anecdotes serve as powerful examples of how excellent customer service can significantly influence customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Chris also shares his positive interactions with Starlink, the satellite internet service provider. He emphasizes how Starlink's proactive communication and dedication to resolving issues made him feel valued as a customer. This experience underscores the importance of making customers feel appreciated and respected, which can transform a one-time transaction into a long-term relationship.
Introducing the concept of "relationship coins," Chris encourages auto repair shops to view customer interactions as opportunities to invest in building strong, lasting relationships. He explains that each positive interaction adds to a metaphorical bank of goodwill, which can pay dividends in terms of customer loyalty and repeat business.
Sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, the episode underscores the necessity of providing exceptional service to foster customer loyalty and drive business growth. Chris argues that in an industry where trust and reliability are paramount, auto repair shops must prioritize customer experience by integrating technology that enhances service efficiency while maintaining the personal touch that makes customers feel valued and understood.
Throughout the episode, Chris Cotton passionately advocates for a balanced approach that leverages technology to streamline operations and improve service delivery, while also emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human connection in creating memorable customer experiences. By doing so, auto repair shops can not only meet but exceed customer expectations, ultimately leading to sustained business success.
Introduction to Supercharging (00:00:09)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on enhancing auto repair business through innovative insights.
Guest Introduction and Technology Discussion (00:01:12)
Chris introduces Craig O'Neill and discusses the impact of technology on customer experience in the auto repair industry.
Personal Customer Experience Anecdote (00:02:21)
Chris shares a personal story about his customer experience with laptop purchases and the importance of customer service.
Switching to Apple Products (00:05:49)
After poor service from Lenovo, Chris decides to purchase a MacBook, highlighting the positive experience he had.
Apple's Exceptional Customer Service (00:08:00)
Chris details his satisfaction with Apple's customer service, leading to his continued investment in their products.
Starlink Customer Experience (00:09:14)
Chris recounts his positive interaction with Starlink customer service while setting up internet for travel.
Importance of Merging Technology and Personal Touch (00:12:15)
Chris emphasizes the need for auto repair shops to blend technology with personal service to enhance customer experiences.
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
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
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By Joe Marconi
Over the weekend I met a 67 year old shop owner who has been in business for 41 years, and still involved in the day to day operations. He added that he has done nothing to plan for his future and his exit.
Life can throw us a curve ball at any age, are your properly prepared.
I know it sounds a little crazy, but the right time to get you business ready to sell, is when you first go into business.
What are you doing to prepare for your exit, sale or if life throws you a curve ball?
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By nptrb
Hey, auto repair shop owners! With January behind us, it means one thing is coming down the pike: tax season.
Before you grit your teeth at the thought of filing, it’s important for you to understand that staying on top of your tax obligations is crucial for the health of your business. And, as always, we’ve got your back, which is why we’re here to break down the key tax deadlines you need to keep in mind, especially as we move through the year.
Keeping your taxes in order is like keeping your shop organized. A well-maintained shop runs smoothly, and so does a business with its tax ducks in a row. In this blog article, we’re diving into some important deadlines to keep you on track.
Quarterly Estimated Taxes (Form 1040-ES)
If your business is a sole proprietorship, partnership, or S corporation, and you expect to owe at least $1,000 in taxes, you’ll likely need to pay estimated taxes quarterly.
This is because taxes aren’t automatically withheld from your business income like they are from a paycheck. Think of it as paying your taxes in installments throughout the year.
1st Quarter (Jan 1 – Mar 31): Due April 15, 2025 2nd Quarter (Apr 1 – May 31): Due June 15, 2025 3rd Quarter (June 1 – Aug 31): Due September 15, 2025 4th Quarter (Sept 1 – Dec 31): Due January 15, 2026 Missing these deadlines can result in penalties, so bookmark this post and add those dates to your calendar!
Employer Taxes
If you have employees (and most repair shops do), you have additional tax responsibilities.
These taxes are typically deposited either monthly or semi-weekly, depending on your total tax liability. The IRS provides specific guidelines on deposit schedules, so it’s essential to understand which one applies to your business. Form 941 (Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return) is used to report these taxes. The due dates for Form 941 generally align with the quarterly estimated tax deadlines mentioned above.
Employer taxes include:
Federal Income Tax Withholding
You’re responsible for withholding federal income tax from your employees’ paychecks and depositing it with the IRS.
Social Security and Medicare Taxes (FICA)
You withhold these taxes from employees’ wages and also match the amount.
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
You pay this tax to fund unemployment benefits for workers who lose their jobs.
Annual Tax Returns
Of course, we can’t forget about your annual tax returns. Depending on your business structure, you’ll file different forms:
Sole Proprietorship: Schedule C (Form 1040) is filed with your personal income tax return. Partnership: Form 1065 (U.S. Return of Partnership Income) is filed to report the partnership’s income and losses. Partners then report their share on their individual tax returns. S Corporation: Form 1120S (U.S. Income Tax Return for an S Corporation) is filed to report the corporation’s income and losses. Shareholders then report their shares on their individual tax returns. C Corporation: Form 1120 (U.S. Corporate Income Tax Return) is filed to report the corporation’s income and pay corporate income tax.
The deadline for filing these returns is generally April 15th for individuals and partnerships, and March 15th for S corporations and C corporations (unless you file for an extension).
State Taxes
Don’t forget about state taxes!
These vary depending on your location but can include state income tax, sales tax, and unemployment tax. Be sure to check with your state’s tax agency for specific deadlines and requirements.
Keeping Your Taxes Organized
Keeping accurate records throughout the year is essential for meeting these deadlines and ensuring you’re not overpaying or underpaying.
This includes tracking income, expenses, payroll, and any other relevant financial information. Cloud-based accounting software can be a lifesaver here, making it easy to track your finances and generate reports. QuickBooks Online is the software we always recommend!
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