“The Right to Repair Act” Your Customer’s Right of Choice
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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
Recorded at the 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO) Business Management and Lindertech Training Tradeshow, our panel discusses strategies for increasing gross profit, team harmony, and the significance of training the next generation of automotive professionals. By understanding and managing gross profit, embracing expert guidance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, shop owners can navigate the challenges of the industry and achieve long-term success. Murray Voth, RPM Training. Listen to Murray’s previous episodes HERE. [email protected] David Coelho, Village Auto Care, London, ON Nick Schonenberger, Kaufman’s Garage, Kitchener, ON Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO): https://www.aaro.ca/ Murray Voth's Coaching Impact (00:02:57) Nick discusses how Murray's coaching and app changed his approach to gross profit. Building Profit into Gross Profit (00:03:06) The importance of integrating net profit into gross profit for better financial management is emphasized. Understanding Gross Profit (00:05:33) Nick reflects on the realization that gross profit is essential for covering all business expenses. The Role of Mastermind Groups (00:07:29) Discussion on how belonging to mastermind groups can open shop owners' eyes to new possibilities. The Journey from Shop Owner to Business Owner (00:09:36) The fear and misconceptions that prevent shop owners from embracing their roles. Efficiency in a Two-Bay Shop (00:11:08) David shares how he improved efficiency and processes in his shop after facing challenges. The Harmony of Teamwork (00:14:20) The importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving high productivity is highlighted. Training and Developing Technicians (00:15:20) David explains how his team trains together, ensuring consistent processes and high performance. Balancing Growth and Team Well-being (00:16:06) The discussion concludes with thoughts on managing growth without overwhelming the existing team. Introduction and Improvement Ideas (00:16:16) Discussion on the need for better communication and vision in shop management. Reflecting on 2023 and Future Changes (00:18:01) Encouragement for shop owners to assess last year’s performance and consider necessary changes. Training and Team Development (00:19:05) Introducing impactful training methods accessible to all team members for continuous improvement. Understanding Gross Profit Metrics (00:22:10) Clarifying the difference between markup and gross margin in shop pricing strategies. Teaching and Inspiring Future Technicians (00:26:57) David discusses his role as an educator and the importance of attracting young talent to the trade. Building a Professional Image in the Industry (00:29:00) Emphasizing the need for a positive image of the automotive trade to attract new entrants. Flexibility in Shop Management (00:30:40) David reflects on the flexibility he has as a shop owner to balance teaching and managing effectively. Service Training Insights (00:33:24) Discussion on the importance of service training and the impact on student confidence in customer relationships.
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: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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: 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Do you believe that every shop has a culture, whether intentional or not? Discover how to define your desired culture and lean into empowering leadership and personal development. This episode is packed with actionable insights and real-life stories to help you transform your shop’s culture from the ground up. Whether you’re struggling with high turnover or just want to create a more positive work environment, this discussion has something for everyone. Dave Schedin, CompuTrek Automotive Management Systems. Dave’s previous episodes HERE Maryann, Small Biz Vantage. Maryann’s previous episodes HERE. Rick White, President and Lead Coach for 180BIZ, Listen to Rick’s previous episodes HERE. [email protected] Show Notes
Rick White on Culture (00:04:55) Rick White challenges the idea of "no culture," emphasizing intentional versus unintentional culture. Maryann Croce on Defining Culture (00:06:59) Maryann Croce discusses the importance of defining desired culture for employee engagement and customer perception. Discussion on Culture's Impact (00:11:53) The panel discusses how culture affects profitability, sustainability, and enjoyment in the workplace. Unethical Practices and Culture (00:12:44) Carm emphasizes the connection between poor culture and unethical practices within a business. Personal Development (00:14:09) Dave discusses how personal development influences a shop owner's ability to cultivate a positive culture. Rick White on Wisdom vs. Knowledge (00:16:54) Rick contrasts knowledge and wisdom, stressing the importance of applying knowledge to create a strong culture. Poor Culture Indicators (00:17:55) Discussion on signs of a poor workplace culture, including low morale and unsafe environments. Lack of Trust and Engagement (00:18:35) Exploration of how absence of trust leads to employee disengagement and its negative impact. Leadership and Growth (00:19:07) Importance of strong leadership for shop success and personal investment in leadership development. Business Ownership Realities (00:24:02) Reflections on the challenges of business ownership and the unexpected demands it brings. Hope and Future Potential (00:27:19) Emphasizing the need for hope and setting high goals to maintain motivation in business. Cultural Shifts and Coaching (00:30:38) Encouragement for gradual cultural improvements and the importance of seeking guidance from coaches. Core Culture Ingredients (00:33:17) Identifying key elements of a positive culture, including leadership behavior and employee recognition. Understanding Culture (00:37:00) Discussion on the significance of culture in a shop and the difficulty of addressing toxic behaviors. Toxic Employees and Culture (00:37:37) Rick shares experiences with toxic employees and how their negative impact can be mitigated. Firing Toxic Behavior (00:38:41) Dave narrates a tough conversation where he separates an employee's behavior from their identity. Difficult Conversations (00:41:06) The importance of having tough conversations to maintain a positive workplace culture is discussed. Burnout and Culture (00:42:46) The effects of burnout on shop owners and the necessity of a supportive culture are highlighted. Culture Change in Teams (00:46:45) The need for team members to see themselves as part of a whole is emphasized through a TV show example.
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: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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: 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Join our panel of shop owners as they discuss the worst advice they've received in the automotive business: "Be the cheapest in town; it will get you more business." "Don't give a price over the phone." "Don't get personal." "DVI's are not worth the extra time." "You'll never make it because you're too honest." "Don't hire a business coach." Bill Nalu, Interstate Auto Care, Madison Heights, MI. Listen to Bill’s previous episodes HERE. Judy Zimmerman Walter, Zimmerman’s Automotive, Mechanicsburg, PA. Listen to Judy’s other episodes HERE. Jesse Matthews, Matthews Mobile Mechanic LLC. Listen to Jesse's other episodes HERE Brian Winograd, Broadway Transmissions and More, Red Lion, PA Show Notes
Judy's Experience with Cheap Advice (00:02:57) Judy shares her father's experience with advice to be the cheapest to attract customers. Bill's Perspective on Pricing (00:03:47) Bill discusses the pitfalls of being the cheapest and the importance of quality over price. Brian's Insights on Industry Standards (00:06:29) Brian emphasizes the value of hiring professionals for quality work in any industry. Communication of Value (00:10:46) Brian highlights the need for better communication of the value provided to customers. Jesse's Coaching Advice (00:12:22) Jesse recounts his father's skepticism about business coaching and the importance of seeking guidance. Brian on the Value of Websites (00:14:03) Brian recalls being advised against investing in a website, which he later found invaluable. The Inner Business Person (00:16:44) Carm discusses the concept of the "inner business person" and its importance in business growth. Judy's Advice on Competition (00:17:47) Judy shares a piece of dubious advice about removing competitors' oil stickers, highlighting ethical concerns. Shop management systems (00:18:28) Discussion on the significance of effective shop management systems for profitability and efficiency. Handling customer inquiries about pricing (00:20:45) Exploration of the complexities surrounding giving prices over the phone and customer engagement. The art of conversation with customers (00:21:04) Emphasis on the need for better communication skills to engage customers effectively. The value of customer trust (00:22:45) Discussion on how to build customer trust and the importance of in-person interactions. The role of visual aids in service (00:26:12) Highlighting the effectiveness of visual aids in explaining vehicle issues to customers. Customer misconceptions about vehicle maintenance (00:27:20) Addressing common customer beliefs about car longevity and the need for regular service. The value of coaching in business (00:28:30) Discussion on the advantages of hiring coaches for personal and business growth. Mentorship groups as a resource (00:31:34) Exploring the benefits of mentorship groups for shop owners seeking guidance and support. Accountability in coaching (00:34:35) The importance of having a coach who holds you accountable for your business actions. Discussion on Humility and Growth (00:34:48) Brian shares his journey of learning humility and the importance of accepting advice for personal growth. Confession and Reflection (00:37:12) Carm acknowledges Brian's confession about recognizing personal issues as a barrier to success. Advice on Social Media (00:37:49) Carm warns against seeking advice on social media, emphasizing it can lead to poor decision-making. Critique of Low Pricing Strategies (00:38:21) Judy discusses the dangers of lowballing business prices to attract customers, advocating for value instead. Integrity in Business Practices (00:39:15) Brian reflects on the importance of honesty in business, sharing a personal story about integrity. Finding Mentorship and Growth (00:41:47) Jesse emphasizes the value of mentorship and learning from various sources to improve business practices. Shift from Training to Education (00:43:10) Carm proposes changing the terminology from "training" to "education" to enhance the learning experience. Personal Investment in Business (00:44:25) Bill stresses the importance of taking business personally and aligning it with core values for success. Educating Customers (00:46:06) Carm concludes with the need to educate customers about services rather than simply responding to their demands.
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: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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: 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network This episode explores the distinctions between training and education, comparing the educational systems in the U.S. and Europe and how the automotive industry can support academic institutions. Tanner Brandt emphasizes the value of vocational training and soft skills, while Michael Ingvardsen highlights the advantages of industry collaboration and the need for engaging training resources. Tanner and Michael advocate for a cultural shift in automotive education, calling for long-term industry partnerships and a focus on continuous learning to better equip future technicians. Michael Ingvardsen, Global Technical Training Manager, Nissens Automotive Tanner Brandt, Autodiag Clinic. Tanner’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes
Discussion on Education vs. Training (00:03:03) Carm emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between training and education in the automotive field. Tanner's Perspective on Training (00:03:53) Tanner discusses the differences between short-term training and long-term educational processes. Michael on European Training Challenges (00:04:48) Michael explains the cultural differences in training attendance between Europe and the U.S. Vacation in Denmark (00:06:26) Carm and Tanner discuss the generous vacation policies in Denmark compared to the U.S. High School Vocational Programs (00:07:25) Tanner shares insights about vocational education systems like BOCES in New York. Shop Owners and Vocational Programs (00:08:19) Carm highlights the need for shop owners to engage with vocational education centers. Challenges in Automotive Education (00:09:12) Tanner addresses misconceptions regarding the readiness of students entering the automotive workforce. Michael's Educational Experience in Denmark (00:10:56) Michael outlines the differences in educational approaches and student opportunities in Denmark. Cost of Education in Denmark (00:13:10) Carm and Michael discuss the free education system in Denmark and its implications. High School Structure in Denmark (00:14:26) Michael explains the schooling structure, including high school and vocational training paths. Career Path in Automotive for Danish Students (00:15:27) Michael describes the four-year training program for students pursuing automotive careers in Denmark. Challenges in Automotive Education (00:17:58) Discussion on why students lack education post-high school and the need for vocational training. Internships and Apprenticeships (00:21:42) Exploration of internships as a result of vocational training and the potential for hands-on experience. Industry Support for Education (00:22:07) Discussion on how companies, like Nissen's, support educational institutions continuously rather than temporarily. Transactional Nature of U.S. Education (00:23:32) Critique of the transactional approach in U.S. automotive education versus long-term support seen in other countries. Instructor Education and Training (00:24:20) Concerns about how current instructors in the U.S. are educated and the validity of their training sources. Curriculum Changes in Colleges (00:27:36) Changes at a college level to improve student outcomes by replacing traditional subjects with lab-focused learning. Differences Between AAS and AOS Degrees (00:29:49) Comparison of Associates of Applied Science and Associates in Occupational Science degrees and their implications for students. Soft Skills in Education (00:32:58) Discussion on the lack of soft skills training in automotive education and its importance for student success. Work-Life Balance Discussion (00:36:33) Exploration of communication skills and generational changes impacting work-life balance in the automotive industry. Personal Reflection on Travel (00:37:01) Michael shares his journey from extensive travel to prioritizing family time and achieving better work-life balance. Content Development in Training (00:38:46) Tanner discusses his experience in content development for training and differences in presentation styles. Interactive Learning Approaches (00:40:46) The need for interactive and entertaining training presentations to engage learners effectively. Learning Management Systems (00:42:01) Discussion on the advantages of established learning management systems in European training compared to the U.S. Corporate Training Consistency (00:43:26) Michael highlights the importance of maintaining consistent training materials across all trainers in his organization. Need for Communication Courses (00:45:05) Tanner advocates for incorporating communication courses in automotive education to improve interpersonal skills. Real-World Communication Training (00:46:56) Tanner shares insights on practical communication training methods that encourage interaction with strangers. Final Thoughts from Michael (00:48:03) Michael encourages ongoing training and education for both students and professionals in the automotive industry. Tanner's Call to Action (00:49:06) Tanner urges educational institutions and companies to collaborate and improve automotive training programs.
Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2024. Mark your calendar now … November 5th-7th, 2024. AAPEX - Now more than ever. And don’t miss the next free AAPEX webinar. Register now at http://AAPEXSHOW.COM/WEBINAR 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/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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: 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
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By Joe Marconi
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