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By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog5 commentsI recently spoke with a friend of mine who owns a large general repair shop in the Midwest. His father founded the business in 1975. He was telling me that although he’s busy, he’s also very frustrated. When I probed him more about his frustrations, he said that it’s hard to find qualified technicians. My friend employs four technicians and is looking to hire two more. I then asked him, “How long does a technician last working for you.” He looked puzzled and replied, “I never really thought about that, but I can tell that except for one tech, most technicians don’t last working for me longer than a few years.”
Judging from personal experience as a shop owner and from what I know about the auto repair industry, I can tell you that other than a few exceptions, the turnover rate for technicians in our industry is too high. This makes me think, do we have a technician shortage or a retention problem? Have we done the best we can over the decades to provide great pay plans, benefits packages, great work environments, and the right culture to ensure that the techs we have stay with us?
Finding and hiring qualified automotive technicians is not a new phenomenon. This problem has been around for as long as I can remember. While we do need to attract people to our industry and provide the necessary training and mentorship, we also need to focus on retention. Having a revolving door and needing to hire techs every few years or so costs your company money. Big money! And that revolving door may be a sign of an even bigger issue: poor leadership, and poor employee management skills.
Here’s one more thing to consider, for the most part, technicians don’t leave one job to start a new career, they leave one shop as a technician to become a technician at another shop. The reasons why they leave can be debated, but there is one fact that we cannot deny, people don’t quit the company they work for, they usually leave because of the boss or manager they work for.
Put yourselves in the shoes of your employees. Do you have a workplace that communicates, “We appreciate you and want you to stay!”
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By Joe Marconi
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By carmcapriotto
NAPA trainers Curt Eigenberger, Bill Weaver, and Randy Cohen, discuss the critical role of training in the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). The conversation underscores the industry's evolution, the need for technicians to update their skills continuously, and the overarching theme of safety and ongoing education in response to technological advancements. The role of mechanical and technology specialists is changing faster than a pit stop at the Indy 500. Always know that training is a key pillar to your strategic success. We're not just talking about keeping up with the latest tech but about staying ahead of the curve. Show Notes:
Link to NAPA Auto Tech Training Technology Skills and Mindset (00:02:06) The conversation delves into the mindset and skills required for today's technology specialists, emphasizing the blend of engineering knowledge and artisan skills. Evolving Training with Technology (00:04:57) The evolution of training in response to technological advancements, including the need to adapt to industry trends and technician needs. Youth in the Automotive Industry (00:06:53) Insights on the changing demographics in the automotive industry, including the increasing interest in technology and electronics among young technicians. Preparing Future Specialists (00:09:47) Identifying and grooming individuals for technology specialist roles, emphasizing the importance of motivation, desire, and forward-thinking. Traits of Successful Specialists (00:13:26) Key traits of successful technology specialists, including problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and the ability to anticipate future industry developments. Recruiting and Identifying Talent (00:14:44) The recruitment of potential technology specialists, with an emphasis on identifying talent within the existing workforce and beyond. The need for a different mindset (00:16:16) The need for individuals to adapt to new technologies and change their mindset. Adapting to high-voltage electricity (00:17:12) The importance of understanding and respecting high voltage electricity and the need for proper training and safety measures. Safety and training for electric vehicles (00:19:12) The necessity of safety and proper training for working on electric vehicles, emphasizing the need for awareness and respect rather than fear. Changing approach to working on vehicles (00:21:31) The need to rethink traditional practices and prioritize safety when working on vehicles, especially in the context of electric vehicles. Pre-qualifications and assessments for EV training (00:24:30) The importance of pre-qualifications and assessments for individuals attending EV training, emphasizing the need for certification and safety awareness. The future of automotive technology (00:27:02) The future of automotive technology, including trends in alternative fuels and propulsion systems, and the evolving nature of the industry. Embracing change and technology in the industry (00:28:55) The excitement and opportunities in embracing new technologies and changes in the automotive industry, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation. Adapting to new roles in the industry (00:29:14) The shift away from traditional stereotypes in the automotive industry, focusing on the evolving roles and opportunities for individuals interested in technology. The importance of conversational learning (00:32:53) The value of conversational and interactive learning, allowing for open discussions and addressing individual struggles and concerns during training. The importance of class engagement (00:33:22) Encouraging conversational learning and active participation in training classes. The value of asking questions (00:34:55) The importance of asking questions, even if they seem basic, to enhance learning for everyone.
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/ Connect with the Podcast -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -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 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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By Joe Marconi
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By carmcapriotto
Carm Capriotto discusses the importance of establishing a new language standard for automotive repair professionals. He focuses on the need for clear and consistent job titles that reflect what we do for the consumer. It will help bring a necessary professional view of auto repair specialists. Get your copy of 'The Rise of the Mechanical and Technology Specialists" HERE. Carm gave a keynote speech on ‘The Rise’ in early 2024 and has spoken via Zoom to many shop owner networking groups and coaching groups to share the reason for and drive for this universal and essential initiative. He will bring his passion to your company or networking group to hear the behind-the-scenes story of the formulation of this very important industry initiative. Email Carm HERE. Think of the power of this language change when we speak to high school and post-secondary students about our trade. We have one of the most technology-driven skilled trades that can use this high dose of professionalism internally and externally. We dive deep into crafting a new standard language for auto repair specialists. It's not just about technical jargon; it's about creating clear, precise, and universally understood communication that benefits everyone in the industry, mostly our clients. Imagine a world where every technician, service advisor, and customer speaks the same automotive language. Respect, clarity, confidence, and trust would skyrocket between service providers and clients.
Crafting the New Lexicon
The journey to creating a new language standard is an entire industry endeavor. It requires collaboration and consensus from all corners. Everyone's input is valuable, from the seasoned veterans to the fresh faces just starting their careers. Here's how we can approach this monumental task:
Engage with Industry Leaders
We must bring together shop owners, thought leaders, educators, and influencers within the auto repair community to spearhead this initiative. Their expertise and experience will be the cornerstone of developing a practical and forward-thinking language. The automotive industry is not static; it's a dynamic field that is constantly advancing. Our new language must be adaptable and evolve with emerging technologies and repair techniques.
The Road Ahead
The road to a new language standard will be challenging. However, the rewards promise to be significant. By committing to this endeavor, we're not just changing our language but elevating the entire auto repair experience.
Join the Conversation
I invite you to listen to the full episode of "Remarkable Results Radio" to explore this topic further. Your thoughts and contributions are not only welcome but essential. Together, let's build a language that reflects the precision, skill, and passion that define our work. Remember to download your 10-page copy of this Declaration HERE and support this initiative. It will pay long-term dividends. Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -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 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
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Can a break-up be the catalyst for an entrepreneurial leap? Find out during Shawn Gilfillan's 20 questions in 30 minutes episode! Shawn also discusses the importance of a strong business culture, mentorship, and the joy of hobbies like aviation. Shawn shares strategies for managing gross margins and the significance of client experience. Shawn Gilfillan, Automotive Magic, Kenvil and Lake Hopatcong, NJ. Shawn’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes
Automotive Magic (00:00:17) Shawn Gilfillan discusses the founding of Automotive Magic on April Fool's Day in 2003. Life Calibration (00:00:41) Shawn talks about his work with Chris Lawson and the high-performance team coaching program at Life Calibration. Life Calibration: From Burnout to Balance [THA 348]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a348/ Mentorship and Self-Development (00:04:54) Shawn discusses the impact of mentors and self-development in his journey as a shop owner. Hobbies (00:06:10) Shawn talks about his hobbies, including aviation. Motivation and Business Culture (00:07:46) Shawn shares his motivation for getting up in the morning and discusses how he creates opportunities for others to thrive and elevates their performance. Advice and Fear (00:11:49) Shawn shares advice on overcoming fear and empowering employees as an owner/CEO. Book Recommendation (00:13:13) Shawn recommends "Hero on a Mission" by Donald Miller and discusses its impact on his perspective as a business owner. Building Business Culture (00:14:50) Shawn discusses the challenges and importance of building a strong business culture from the top down. Culture and Team Dynamics (00:15:40) Discussion on creating a positive work culture and building a cohesive team. Leadership and Vision (00:16:29) The importance of establishing a vision and values from the start, and involving the team in maintaining the culture. Client Experience and Relationship Building (00:19:36) Strategies for understanding and meeting client needs, and building strong client relationships. Adaptability and Change (00:20:47) The significance of embracing change and adapting to business challenges. Leadership Crisis and Team Support (00:21:00) Dealing with unexpected managerial crises and the importance of team support. Personal Development and Skills (00:23:14) The desire for new skills and personal development, such as learning magic tricks. Business Management and Gross Margin (00:24:14) Strategies for managing gross margin and keeping front-end operations efficient. Car Count and Scheduling (00:25:35) Strategies for managing car count, scheduling, and maintaining workflow in the shop. Future Reservations and Client Commitment (00:27:21) The importance of setting future reservations and ensuring client commitment to scheduled appointments. Leadership Communication (00:29:17) Encouraging a shift in language and communication to emphasize the importance of future reservations. Hiring and Relationships (00:30:12) Discussion on hiring and relationships in the workplace, including the impact of personal relationships on work performance. Dream Car (00:31:37) Shawn's dream car and the enjoyment he derives from it. Opening a New Shop (00:32:11) The three important needs for opening a new shop: location, good people, and effective marketing. Marketing Strategy (00:32:33) The success of giving away the first hundred oil changes for free as a marketing strategy. Firing a Customer (00:33:52) A recent incident of firing a customer due to their attitude and behavior at the shop.
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -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 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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