Quantcast
Jump to content


Earning Respect of the Parts Store ----- ----- ----- ----- "When your actions affect their reactions"


Gonzo

Recommended Posts

Earning Respect at the Parts Store

 

When your actions can affect their reaction

 

I started my shop like a lot of other guys in the auto business. Not a lot of startup capital, a hand painted sign, a box of tools, and a dream. Boy, was that a long time ago. I still have the tools, but the hand painted sign is long gone. One thing I didn't have was any track record of paying my bills with the parts stores. People knew of me, but not well enough to put a lot of trust into my business just yet. Believe me, it was a struggle to get things started.

 

I was buying parts from any local parts store or warehouse that would let me. A lot of the parts stores wouldn't even give me a line of credit, and others would only give me one week or so on credit. So every Monday I would have to make good on the parts I had bought the week before. I can't blame them; it's quite a risk for parts store to let their products go out the front door to an unknown without any track record.

 

I wanted to do whatever it took to make my new business thrive. Back then I would do as much as I could in the way of in-house repairs, or rebuild as many components as possible. In fact, a lot of the components back then could be taken apart and rebuilt. (Not like the glued together components we see today.) I would rebuild switches, window motors, starters, alternators, or anything else that I could take apart and replace internal components on. It wasn't long after I opened that I ran into a little problem with one of my suppliers. It was on an IC-type Delco alternator that had a bad rectifier in it. Simple repair, I could knock this job out in no time.

 

I ordered a new one from my supplier, and got to work tearing the alternator down to install the new rectifier. Once I had it back together again, I installed it back onto the car. As soon as I reached for the battery clamp and touched it to the battery, Z-ZAPP! Sparks flew in every direction. What the…!?!? What did I just do??

 

I disconnected everything I just put together. With the alternator disconnected the problem was gone. I must have screwed up…or at least that's what I was thinking at the time. Guess I'll take the whole thing apart and check my work. I went through the alternator with a fine toothed comb. Nothing looked wrong; everything was in its proper place. I got out the ohm meter and started checking things. Sure enough, the rectifier was the culprit. The diodes inside the rectifier that I just bought were installed from the factory … … … backwards! I called the supplier and told them the situation.

 

I'm busy explaining to the parts store what I found out, but I could tell something else was wrong besides the rectifier. It was me, let's face it, I was young, a new shop owner (only in business a few months) with no track record, and nothing more than my word that the part was bad. The big problem was getting the part store convinced that I wasn't just another idiot with a box of wrenches trying to run a repair shop. I'm sure that's what they were thinking. I'll bet they've seen a lot of shops come and go … and there's no doubt I probably sounded like another "wanna-be" shop owner to them.

 

I went into great detail how I discovered the backwards diodes, but what did you expect, I'm still that green kid with a multi-meter… they didn't believe a word of it. I had to buy a second one. Because it was an electrical part, and of course… I must have screwed it up, and as their store policy was "No return on electrical parts", I'll have to eat the first one, unless I can prove it was faulty. Their reasoning was simple, although buying extra parts wasn't in my budget at all.

 

I have to agree with the parts store though, it doesn't take much to screw up an electrical part by an amateur installing it wrong, I might have been new at this shop ownership, but this wasn't the first time I installed a rectifier in a GM alternator. I knew what I was doing… I just had to gain their respect and confidence.

 

When the replacement part showed up I checked it "before" installing it. Well, what do ya know, this one is backwards too. I called them back again, and now they were even more suspicious. Since I was the "new" guy on the block, I think they wanted to be sure about my results first. This time they sent another one down to me, and had me check it while the parts driver waited (I think they wanted to see if I was actually testing them)…..same thing again, it was backwards also.

 

That's when I told them that I thought they had an entire order of these rectifiers built wrong, and to send me a different brand. There again, I'm the new guy, it's another case of "I have to buy another one." On their fourth trip to my shop the parts store brought one from a different manufacturer and this one checked out perfectly. In order to get my money back on the faulty ones, they had to send them back to their supplier and have it verified, before they could get their money back and of course my money back too. Unfortunately this took awhile.

 

That was many, many, years ago. These days it's a little easier for me to return an electrical part if I need to. I very, very seldom ever do. My track record speaks for itself. Years later that same part store and I are old pals. The store has changed owners several times, but some of the same counter people are still there. Anytime they have a question on an electrical issue they'll usually call me first. I guess I've earned their trust, their respect, and their admiration. In fact, I've helped bail them out of a few situations too.

 

I look at it this way, we have to provide some amount of trust in everything we do in life or business. Whether that trust is directed to a customer or a supplier, you still need to gain their confidence. Just because you think you know something… doesn't make you right… ya still have to prove it.

 

 

Thanks for reading "Gonzo's Toolbox" these stories are here before anyone else sees them. Final editing and actual publication depends a lot on your comments. Not all my stories make it out there into print, but you can help decide which do. Leave a comment and let me know what you think of it. It really makes a difference. Thanks again to ASO Gonzo


View full article

Link to comment
Share on other sites



Coming up with different topics for my column gets to be quite a job. The funny thing is, just when I think.. nah, this story will never work... I get a call from one of my editors and they LOVE it... go figure... this could be one of them... Ya never know do ya.

 

I was working with another shop the other day with a component they thought was bad. They brought it over for me to check and it was exactly that... bad. But, these guys didn't have the same level of "respect" that I have with the parts stores. With my help they were credited back for the faulty part. (It jogged my memory of how I started out so I put this story together) Experience and a track record does help sometimes... LOL

 

thanx Joe and the gang at ASO for providing me with a place to post my stories. Makes my job a lot easier. thanx again.

 

I hope everyone enjoys reading them. :) Gonzo

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 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
      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
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Recorded at the 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO) Business Management and Lindertech Training Tradeshow, Emily Chung shares her recent trip to China with her 2 sons and father, discussing cultural experiences, manufacturing insights, and consumer differences. Highlights include the impact of tariffs on the automotive aftermarket and the importance of global collaboration, particularly in the context of electric vehicles and semiconductor production. Emily emphasizes the need for understanding and adapting to global market dynamics. Emily Chung, Autoniche, Markham, ON. Emily’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO): https://www.aaro.ca/ Trip to China (00:01:10) Emily shares insights about her recent trip to China with her sons and father. Visit to Rotor Plant (00:02:04) Emily talks about visiting her father's rotor plant and the manufacturing process observed. OEM vs. Aftermarket (00:04:20) Emily explains the difference between original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers. Perceptions of China (00:05:34) Emily emphasizes the importance of experiencing China firsthand to understand its reality. China's Retirement Population (00:06:28) Emily highlights the large retirement population in China, comparable to the entire U.S. population. Cultural Observations (00:09:05) Emily reflects on the historical context of China and its political landscape compared to North America. Quality of Products Made in China (00:10:00) Emily addresses misconceptions about the quality of products manufactured in China. Use of Robots in Hotels (00:10:38) Emily shares her observations of robots used for food delivery and cleaning in hotels. Fast Food in China (00:13:35) Emily describes the differences in fast food offerings, including Tim Hortons and Starbucks. Unique Starbucks Offerings (00:14:43) Emily talks about a unique Starbucks drink found in Beijing that is not available in North America. Five Guys Experience (00:15:57) Emily shares her surprising experience dining at Five Guys in Shanghai. Cultural Insights on Food Delivery (00:16:15) Emily shares her experience with unique food delivery practices in China, including ordering from different restaurants while dining out. Children's Learning Experience (00:23:30) Emily reflects on the lessons her children learned about cultural differences and social norms during their trip. Wage Disparity Discussion (00:25:11) Emily explains the context of wage disparities in Chinese manufacturing, highlighting living conditions and compensation packages. Traffic and City Structure in Beijing (00:27:17) Emily describes the chaotic traffic and city layout in Beijing, emphasizing the scale of urbanization in China. Safety and Monitoring in China (00:29:14) Emily discusses the low crime rates in China and the impact of surveillance on public safety perceptions. Electric Vehicle Market Insights (00:30:17) Emily shares observations on the diverse electric vehicle market in China, including traditional and tech company manufacturers. Global Trade and Economic Perspectives (00:31:42) Emily emphasizes the importance of global trade and economic understanding, discussing recent trends and concerns in policy. Tariffs and Their Impact on Prices (00:32:37) Discussion on how tariffs have doubled the prices of automotive parts, affecting the aftermarket industry. Engaging with China for Better Products (00:34:23) Exploration of the need to collaborate with China for advanced automotive technology and products. Electrification and Economic Concerns (00:34:55) Discussion on how shutting out China could increase costs for consumers amid a push for electrification. Teaching the Next Generation (00:36:47) Emily shares her experience teaching students about the automotive aftermarket and its complexities. Understanding Aftermarket Parts (00:37:01) Explaining the difference between OEM parts and aftermarket parts to students in automotive business classes.
      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             Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      In this episode, Hunt Demarest, an experienced CPA specializing in the auto repair industry, sits down with Chris Cotton, a renowned auto repair shop coach and owner of Autofix Auto Shop Coaching. Together, they dive into the challenges and strategies of optimizing shop productivity and profitability.
      They talk about:
      The importance of labor hours per repair order (LHRO) and how it impacts a shop's profitability. Why thorough vehicle inspections and accurate estimates are crucial for increasing average repair orders (ARO). How modern shop management systems, help streamline operations and ensure healthy profit margins. Chris Cotton's personal experience as a shop owner and coach, and how he uses his own shop as a "test case" to develop successful strategies. Insights on whether and when to consider expanding your shop operations to multiple locations.
      Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS
      Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?
      It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.
      Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
      Thanks to our partner, Promotive
      It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.
      Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
      Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
      Email Hunt: [email protected]
      Download a Copy of My Books Here:
      Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop 
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      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.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      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.
      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
    • 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.

    • Fast Free Shipping on All Orders Over $50
    • By carmcapriotto
      Today, we’re diving into a crucial topic—your role in making your marketing partnership a true success. While hiring a marketing company takes a lot of work off your plate, it doesn’t mean you can be completely hands-off. In fact, your involvement is essential to ensure your marketing reaches its full potential.
      We’ll cover the key responsibilities you need to take on, from meeting with your marketing team to providing access and sharing important updates. We’ll also discuss how staying active in your community and delivering a great customer experience can make your marketing efforts even more effective.
      If you're ready to learn how to enhance your marketing partnership and see better results, this episode is for you. Let’s dive in!
      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)
      https://autoshopcoaching.com/weekly-blitz-podcast-with-chris-cotton/ - The Weekly Blitz By Chris Cotton
      https://www.kenblanchardbooks.com/book/raving-fans/ - Raving Fans 


      Show Notes with Timestamps


      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


  • Our Sponsors



×
×
  • Create New...