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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 nptrb
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By carmcapriotto
A lifelong student of history - this episode began as a serious topic of interest for Craig - and evolved into multiple conversations with a special guest.
For our listeners, we took our time with this episode and it was reviewed with careful consideration due to the significance of the subject.
On June 6, 2024 - many of us in the free world paused to recognize a significant anniversary. The 80th anniversary of D-Day.
D-Day, also known as Operation Overlord, was the allied invasion of Normandy to liberate Europe from Nazi tyranny.
There have been other milestone anniversaries of D-Day, but this year came at a very challenging time in the world and hits very differently that previous years for other reasons.
The conversation begins around why that is.
One term that was raised in one of the many articles written on the topic - was that we are losing our ‘tangible interpreters’ of the event.
The people who were there in 1944, the people that many of us knew or were even raised by, sadly, will not be with us much longer. The knowledge of these major events now passes to those of us fortunate to know those who lived it and to take care in how we communicate these events to new generations who soon will never have the chance to meet a veteran of WWII.
To help with this topic - Craig knew the perfect guest, Evan Wisner.
When sharing an anniversary article with Evan, that article highlighted the Army Rangers DDAY operation on Point Du Huc, a conversation followed that we decided to take to the recording studio.
Craig came to know Evan and appreciates his unique experiences and expertise as they are both members of Grand Rapids Toastmasters Club#404 - joining the club around the same time in 2019. This means - Craig gets to hear a lot of great speeches from Evan. Since Evan is both an EQ expert as well as a veteran of the war on terror who served alongside Army Rangers, you can be certain he brings a unique perspective to this conversation that makes it very much worth listening to.
We ask listeners to take into consideration that this was a discussion focused on one major operation of a larger campaign of a greater war, and that all history, especially discussion around war, is limited, and does not tell every story, and often needs context for understanding.
Thank You To Our Partners:
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Contact Information
Craig O'Neill Email: HERE
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.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Want to unlock new opportunities for your auto repair shop? Learn how to tap into local organizations that are eager to help your business thrive, connect with valuable resources, and maximize community support.
We'll explore the benefits of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), leveraging Downtown Development Districts, and participating in programs like Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses.
Plus, discover how to network with local government officials, secure grants, and enhance your shop's visibility and growth.
Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
Tanchubajo Economic Development Foundation (TEDF) - https://www.tedf.org/ Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - sba.gov/sbdc Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) - https://10ksbapply.com/ The Idea Village in New Orleans - https://www.ideavillage.org/
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) The hosts introduce the podcast and discuss the episode's focus on local organizations for business support. Tangible Economic Development Foundation (00:01:10) Brian shares his experience with TDF, emphasizing its role in supporting local businesses. Importance of Economic Development Foundations (00:02:27) Discussion on how these foundations help attract businesses and provide resources, particularly for small enterprises. Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) (00:04:15) Kim explains the role of SBDCs, offering assistance with business planning, funding, and market research. SBDC Resources and Classes (00:06:09) Overview of various resources available through SBDCs, including classes and networking opportunities for business owners. Finding Your Local SBDC (00:08:09) Advice on how to locate an SBDC and the value it brings to small business owners. Downtown Development Districts (00:09:15) Brian introduces Downtown Development Districts and their potential benefits for businesses in historic areas. Engagement with Downtown Development Districts (00:10:12) Discussion on the importance of local business involvement and awareness of district events and resources. Marketing Opportunities through Events (00:11:15) Encouragement to participate in local events to promote businesses, even if they seem unrelated to automotive repair. Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program (00:13:17) Brian explains the program's purpose, which is to provide small business owners with essential skills and resources. Experience with the 10K SB Program (00:15:35) Kim shares her perspective on the program, highlighting its benefits and the connections made among participants. Startup Accelerators (00:16:32) Discussion on startup accelerators that help new businesses grow quickly, including local examples. Local Government Support (00:18:01) Insights on the role of local government in supporting businesses and fostering a positive business environment. Getting Involved in the Community (00:19:48) Encouragement to engage with local organizations and share experiences to benefit the community. Chamber of Commerce Importance (00:22:50) Highlighting the chamber of commerce as a key connection to other business organizations in the community. Networking Benefits (00:23:56) Personal stories illustrating how networking and involvement in local organizations can create valuable connections.
How To Get In Touch
Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
Website - shopmarketingpros.com
Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros
Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book
Instagram - @shopmarketingpros
Questions/Ideas - [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
In this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton is joined by guest Coach Mike for an in-depth discussion on the remarkable transformation of "Project X," an absentee-owned auto repair shop. Coach Mike provides a comprehensive overview of the myriad challenges faced in managing the shop, particularly highlighting the critical need for robust on-site leadership and stringent accountability measures.
Throughout the episode, Coach Mike elaborates on the key strategies that were instrumental in turning the shop around. One of the primary steps taken was the recruitment of highly skilled technicians, which was essential for delivering quality service and boosting customer satisfaction. Additionally, the shop transitioned to using TeckMetric software, a move that significantly enhanced performance tracking and operational efficiency.
A major focus was also placed on fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement among the staff. This involved regular training sessions, workshops, and encouraging a mindset geared towards growth and excellence. As a result of these concerted efforts, the shop's revenue saw a threefold increase, and the average repair orders experienced a substantial rise.
The episode underscores the importance of community engagement, illustrating how building strong relationships with local customers and businesses can drive sustained success. It also highlights the necessity of continuous improvement, advocating for ongoing assessment and refinement of processes and strategies.
Furthermore, effective communication between owners and managers is emphasized as a cornerstone for achieving long-term success. The dialogue between Coach Chris and Coach Mike provides valuable insights into how transparent and consistent communication can bridge gaps, align goals, and ensure that everyone is working towards a common objective.
Overall, this episode of "The Weekly Blitz" offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for anyone looking to transform their business, emphasizing that with the right leadership, tools, and culture, significant improvements and success are well within reach.
Introduction and Overview (00:00:09)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the episode and discusses the podcast's focus on auto repair business innovation.
Guest Introduction (00:01:03)
Coach Chris brings in Coach Mike to discuss the transformation of an absentee-owned auto repair shop, "Project X."
Absentee Owner Challenges (00:02:13)
Coach Mike outlines the difficulties in managing a shop with an absentee owner and the need for strong leadership.
Starting Point and Initial Changes (00:03:46)
Discussion on the initial steps taken to improve the struggling shop, focusing on hiring experienced staff.
Importance of Tech Metric (00:04:57)
Coach Mike emphasizes the significance of using Tech Metric for tracking business performance remotely.
Training on Estimates and Inspections (00:06:09)
Coach Mike describes the training provided to staff on creating accurate estimates and conducting thorough inspections.
Staff Engagement and Overcoming Issues (00:07:16)
Mike shares how engaging staff in discussions helped improve buy-in and operational efficiency.
Growth and Profitability (00:09:10)
The shop's revenue growth from $10,000 to $25,000 weekly, illustrating successful team collaboration and profitability.
Absentee Owner's Success (00:10:42)
The absentee owner expresses interest in acquiring more shops, highlighting the success of the current operation.
Addressing Bad Apples (00:11:20)
Discussion on identifying and removing unproductive staff to improve shop performance.
Future Plans for the Shop (00:13:15)
Coach Mike outlines upcoming goals, including staffing and efficiency improvements to sustain growth.
Community Involvement Strategy (00:14:44)
Plans for local engagement and marketing to strengthen community ties and attract more customers.
Community Engagement Strategies (00:15:35)
Discusses ways to attract customers, including open houses and community involvement.
Team Accountability (00:16:24)
Explores the importance of a strong service manager and team buy-in for business growth.
Owner's Accountability from Afar (00:17:31)
Highlights how absentee owners can maintain accountability through regular communication and ticket audits.
Continuous Improvement (00:19:24)
Encourages business owners to strive for constant improvement and efficiency in operations.
Closing Remarks (00:20:54)
Wraps up the discussion with appreciation for the guest and encouragement for listeners.
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 carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching, and Today's Class Dive into the latest trends in the automotive industry, including capital allocation, AI integration, customer service evolution, and challenges with parts availability. Featuring industry thought leaders Jason Stretch, Scott Brown, Chris Jones, and Seth Thorsen, this discussion covers how shops can navigate financial hurdles, embrace new technologies, and enhance their customer experience. Show Notes
Capital Allocation Discussion (00:02:36) Scott Brown explains capital allocation and its significance in maximizing business returns. Bank Relationships and Strategies (00:05:07) Panelists share insights on managing bank relationships and loan covenants. Alternative Capital Raising Strategies (00:06:07) Alternative ways to raise capital beyond traditional loans. AI in Shop Operations (00:07:14) AI's role in improving shop operations and training. AI's Impact on Customer Interaction (00:10:36) AI's integration in customer service and operational efficiency. Educating Technicians on Job Opportunities (00:13:26) Panelists emphasize the need to educate technicians on job environments and growth. Shift from Training to Education (00:14:14) The importance of reframing "training" to "education" for greater impact. Long-term Education vs. Short-term Training (00:15:42) The distinction between education and training in the industry. Valuing Human and Intellectual Capital (00:16:12) The importance of human and intellectual capital for business success. Training Seminars and Technician Education (00:17:31) Discussion on the need for education seminars to help technicians diagnose issues effectively. EV Support and Safety Certification (00:18:56) Importance of safety certifications for technicians working on electric vehicles before providing assistance. Parts Availability Post-COVID (00:21:39) Challenges in sourcing parts for older vehicles since the COVID pandemic began. Customer Experience and Expectations (00:23:11) The evolving customer experience and how shops must adapt to meet modern expectations. Speed of Service (00:24:50) Discussion on the critical importance of speed in service to meet customer demands. Communication with Customers (00:26:16) Emphasis on the need for clear communication to manage customer expectations effectively. Cultural Shift in Auto Shops (00:29:07) Adapting shop culture to prioritize relationships and customer service in a competitive market. Sophisticated Customer Service (00:30:11) Expectation of high-level service from customers, particularly in the luxury car segment. Adapting to Customer Demands (00:32:02) Need for businesses to modify operations based on customer surveys and feedback. Importance of Communication in Service (00:33:13) How effective communication can alleviate customer anxiety and improve service experiences. Trends in Tools and Technology (00:34:37) Discussion on the rapid development of new tools and training requirements in the automotive industry. Remote Diagnostics Capabilities (00:35:30) Exploration of Tesla's remote diagnostics and the potential for other manufacturers to adopt similar technologies. Trends in Electric Vehicles (00:37:09) Insights on the growing trend of remote diagnostics in electric vehicles and its implications for the industry. Embracing Technology for Shop Owners (00:38:28) Encouragement for shop owners to learn and embrace technology to improve operations and customer service. Training and Education Needs (00:39:06) Highlighting the increasing importance of education and training in the automotive service industry. Flexibility and Business Adaptation (00:40:03) Discussion on the necessity for shops to adapt to changing financial and operational practices in a competitive market. Murdering Sacred Cows (00:41:01) Emphasis on the need for innovation and change in practices to keep up with rapid technological advancements. 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 Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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
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