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Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?
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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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Are Phone Trees Killing Your Auto Repair Shop's Customer Service? [E162] - Chris Cotton Weekly BlitzBy 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 podcast episode, Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching addresses the negative impact of phone trees on customer service in auto repair shops. He emphasizes the importance of the human touch and shares his frustration with complex phone systems that deter customers. Chris offers practical advice for revamping phone systems, such as auditing current setups, matching staffing to call volume, and soliciting customer feedback. He advocates for a balance between technology and personal interaction, stressing that each call is an opportunity to showcase excellent service and stand out from competitors. Chris concludes by inviting listeners to contribute to the conversation on maintaining a personal touch in customer service.
The importance of human touch in customer service (00:01:05) Chris discusses the negative impact of phone trees on customer service and the need for a human touch. The drawbacks of using phone trees (00:02:07) Chris explains how phone trees can frustrate customers and lead to missed opportunities. The value of personal interaction in customer service (00:05:21) Chris emphasizes the importance of human connection and empathy in the customer service experience. Balancing automation and human interaction (00:07:31) Chris discusses the need to strike a balance between technology and human interaction in the auto repair business. Practical tips for revamping phone systems (00:09:33) Chris provides practical suggestions for improving phone systems to better serve customers and enhance the overall customer service experience.
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
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, Technician Find Building the dream team in the automotive industry goes beyond hiring technicians—it's about creating a culture that fosters growth, respect, and development. Join our panel of shop owners as they share their experiences and strategies in building an outstanding team. Topics include the significance of culture, passive and active recruiting, development through apprenticeship and training programs, and retention strategies like understanding employees' goals, compensation, and creating an enjoyable work environment. Want to learn more? Join Chris Lawson's 'Repair Shop Growth Systems Live 2024' May 31st - June 2nd in Mt. Arlington, NJ. https://www.repairshopgrowthsystems.com/ Chris Lawson, TechnicianFind.Com. Chris’ previous episodes HERE Shawn Gilfillan, Automotive Magic, Kenvil and Lake Hopatcong, NJ. Shawn’s previous episodes HERE Russell Crosby, Russ’s Wrench Auto Repair, Clinton, NJ. Russ’s previous episodes HERE Rob Morrison, Morrison's Auto Rite, Jamaica Plain, MA Roy Niemi, A & D Auto & Body Repair, Haslett, MI Show Notes
Repair Shop Growth Systems Live 2024, May 31st - June 2nd, Mt Arlington, NJ: https://www.repairshopgrowthsystems.com Attracting Employees (00:00:01) Discussion on strategies and stories for attracting skilled technicians and employees to automotive repair shops. Upcoming Summit (00:01:11) Introduction of a summit focused on attracting, growing, and retaining employees in the automotive repair industry. https://www.repairshopgrowthsystems.com/ Personal Stories of Attraction (00:02:26) Shop owners share personal stories and strategies for attracting and hiring employees, including promoting unique employee benefits and culture. Writing Attractive Job Ads (00:10:03) Discussion on the importance of highlighting ongoing training and development opportunities in job ads to attract skilled technicians. Employee-Centric Job Ads (00:14:31) Highlighting the core elements that technicians look for in job opportunities, including compensation, growth opportunities, and respect for work-life balance. Creating an Apprentice Program (00:16:21) Establishing in-house mechanic apprentice program with local institutions and colleges to attract and develop young technicians. Focusing on Personal Growth (00:17:09) Prioritizing individual growth and ambitions, not just automotive knowledge, to attract and retain young staff. Hiring and Fostering Culture (00:18:09) Emphasizing the importance of hiring and fostering culture through team involvement in the hiring process and internal recommendations. Attracting and Retaining Talent (00:19:43) Introducing TechnicianFind.com as a solution for finding skilled automotive technicians and retaining a strong team. Recruitment Strategies (00:21:05) Recruiting individuals with strong work ethic and potential, focusing on personal and professional development, and utilizing mentorship programs. Building a Candidate Bench (00:24:17) Emphasizing the importance of keeping and organizing job applications to build a candidate bench for future hiring needs. Engaging Families and Open Communication (00:29:00) Involving employees' families in company activities, promoting honesty and open communication, and addressing personal well-being through a life coach. Listening and Individual Management (00:31:14) Highlighting the importance of active listening, intuition, and individualized management to improve employee retention. Attracting and Retaining Employees (00:31:57) Strategies for supporting employees' financial well-being and making work enjoyable. Creating a Fun Work Environment (00:32:37) Implementing games, profit-sharing, and unique incentives to make work enjoyable. Recruiting and Developing Future Technicians (00:35:40) Strategies for attracting potential superstars from marginal shops and nurturing talent. Employee Compensation and Long-Term Care (00:40:33) Ensuring fair compensation and care for long-term employees to retain talent. Profit Sharing and Business Understanding (00:45:33) Educating employees about profit sharing and the mechanical perspective of business operations.
Thanks to our Partner, Technician Find If you are tired of struggling to find skilled automotive technicians for your independent auto repair shop, say goodbye to the endless search and let Technician Find be your solution. We are a 'Single Stop To Staff Your Shop.' http://www.technicianfind.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 (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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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS and AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Industry shop owners discuss the challenges and strategies of opening and managing a second location. They explore the motivations behind opening additional shops, touching on wealth building, seeking new challenges, and planning for retirement. Carl Hutchinson emphasizes the importance of providing a growth path and career opportunities to attract and train the next generation of industry professionals. The conversation highlights the complexities of scaling a business and the need for strong leadership, financial planning, and a commitment to developing talent within the industry. Carl Hutchinson, Complete Automotive, 2 locations, Springfield, MO. Listen to Carl’s previous episodes HERE Kim Auernheimer, CS Automotive, 2 locations, TN. Listen to Kim’s Episodes HERE. Jim Fleischman, Automotive Alley, 2 locations, Arcade and Marilla, NY. Listen to Jim’s previous episodes HERE.
Behind the Scenes: New Shop Retrofit/Remodel with Carl Hutchinson [CC 097]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/cc097/ Store two considerations (00:01:01) Discussion on the importance and reasons for opening a second store, including financing and marketing efforts. Finding the second location (00:02:52) Panelists share their experiences in finding and choosing the location for their second store. Preparation and challenges (00:09:33) Challenges and preparations for operating a second location, including policies, procedures, and staffing. Systemizing and structuring (00:12:29) The importance of systemizing and structuring operations for a second location, as well as the challenges and preparations involved. Transition and training (00:15:14) Discussion on transitioning and training staff for a new location, including the use of a shop management system. Reflection and passion (00:17:32) Reflecting on the passion and effort required to start and grow a business, including the challenges of expanding to multiple locations. Store Number Two Challenges (00:17:56) Challenges of opening a second store, losing customers, ordering parts, and managing separate entities. Inventory and Supplies (00:20:14) Challenges in stocking inventory and supplies for a new store, unexpected expenses, and the importance of thorough planning. Financing and Cash Flow (00:24:43) Discussion on financing options, including seller financing, bank loans, and personal investment, and the impact of COVID-19. People Problems and Leadership (00:29:17) Dealing with turnover, hiring challenges, and the importance of finding the right people for leadership roles. Grooming and Growing Store Two (00:32:45) Balancing time and effort between store two and store one, empowering vice presidents, and the changing role of the company president. Building an MSO (00:34:48) Discussion on the motivations for building a multi-shop operation, including retirement planning, challenges, and personal growth. Creating Career Paths (00:41:26) The importance of creating a career path for the younger generation, fast-tracking growth, and training and educating employees. Valuing and Acquiring Businesses (00:47:31) Challenges in valuing and acquiring businesses, including the impact of market competition and the importance of assessing profitability. Equipment and Location Considerations (00:49:29) Discussion on starting from scratch, acquiring equipment, and the significance of location and infrastructure.
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/ 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 carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network By leveraging tools like digital vehicle inspections (DVI) and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, businesses can significantly improve their operations and customer experience. These integrations allow for a more streamlined process, from diagnosing vehicle issues to maintaining consistent communication with clients. Ben Dexter, National Training Manager, NAPA TRACS Show Notes
Ben's journey in the automotive industry (00:00:55) Ben's progression from service writer to National Training Manager and his experience in the automotive industry. Importance of shop management systems (00:02:04) The critical role of shop management systems in the automotive repair industry and the support provided by NAPA TRACS. Value of training (00:03:21) The significance of investing in training and the impact of leadership participation in training programs. Building customer rapport (00:11:22) Ben's approach to building customer rapport and the importance of effective communication and attention to customer needs. Significance of scheduling (00:13:12) The shift from reactive scheduling to a coordinated approach, addressing the issues of timely and accurate repairs through effective scheduling. The power of software integrations (00:15:37) The commitment to utilizing shop management software and the potential of integrations with other tools like DVI and CRM for business growth. Utilizing shop management systems (00:19:08) Encouraging the use of shop management systems and the availability of resources for business advancement. Role of technology in DVI (00:20:42) Discussion on the coordinated effort required for effective Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVI) and the benefits of real-time communication. Challenges in utilizing software (00:22:32) Exploring the reasons behind the underutilization of software tools and the need for effective leadership and training. Importance of testing and measuring (00:25:13) Highlighting the significance of testing and measuring business performance for improvement and growth. Communication and customer service (00:28:27) Emphasizing the importance of effective communication with customers to prevent unexpected breakdowns and enhance customer satisfaction. Impact of scheduling on service advisors (00:30:07) Discussing the influence of scheduling on service advisors' decision-making and the need for consistent customer recommendations. Rethinking business analysis (00:32:47) Encouraging a reevaluation of business statistics and reports to identify missed opportunities and improve overall business strategies. Morning Meetings and Reporting (00:33:21) Discussion on the importance of morning meetings, sales reporting by service writer, and constructive performance discussions. Maximizing Existing Resources (00:34:55) Emphasizing the significance of making the most of existing resources before seeking more car count. Linear Quantity Opportunities (00:36:32) Exploration of the linear quantity opportunities in parts matrix, addressing traditional matrix problems and opportunities for improvement. Commitment to Lifelong Learning (00:38:54) Highlighting the importance of lifelong learning for success in shop management and overall strategy. 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: -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 carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Recorded Live at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo, Jeremy O'Neal shares his journey of transforming a struggling business into a thriving enterprise, emphasizing the critical role of service advisor training. Jeremy also highlighted how understanding the business, the owner's goals, and team dynamics is essential before implementing any training program. It's not just about fixing cars; it's about creating an exceptional customer experience that drives business success. Jeremy O’Neal, Advisorfix, Freedom Auto Repair, Hesperia, CA. Previous episodes HERE. Show Notes
Service Advisor Coaching & Training: https://www.advisorfix.com/ Jeremy's Transition to Shop Ownership (00:00:36) Jeremy discusses his transition from service advisor training to owning Freedom Automotive. The Impact of Vision 2024 (00:04:17) Jeremy and Carm discuss the impact of the Vision 2024 event on their lives and the industry. Youth Presence at Vision 2024 (00:04:48) Carm and Jeremy discuss the significant presence of young talent at the Vision 2024 event. Jeremy's Business Growth (00:06:56) Carm inquires about the growth of Jeremy's business over the past eight years. The Importance of Service Advisor Training (00:07:11) Carm and Jeremy discuss the critical need for service advisor training in the automotive industry. Jeremy's Business Transformation (00:08:55) Jeremy shares the transformation of his shop, including significant growth and plans for expansion. The Role of Service Advisors in Business Growth (00:09:29) Jeremy discusses the potential for business growth by adding service advisors and technicians. Customer Service Challenges (00:10:45) Jeremy and Carm discuss the decline in customer service and the impact on the automotive industry. The Role of Customer Experience (00:12:21) Carm emphasizes the importance of creating a great customer experience in automotive repair shops. Parenting and Cultural Observations (00:13:24) Jeremy shares his observations and concerns about modern parenting and societal changes. Firing underperforming staff (00:15:20) Jeremy discusses his commitment to high service standards and the consequences for those who don't meet them. Training and standards (00:16:07) Carm questions Jeremy about his work-life balance and the importance of training in maintaining high standards. NAPA Auto Care Center program (00:16:55) Carm discusses the benefits of the NAPA brand and the Pro Image upgrade program for automotive shops. Employee commitment and performance (00:19:00) Jeremy shares his experiences with committed but underperforming employees and the impact on customer service. Service advisor training and culture (00:21:20) Jeremy emphasizes the importance of daily coaching and the shop owner's role in guiding training and culture. Continuous improvement and learning culture (00:23:03) Jeremy discusses the importance of employees having a learning culture and the availability of educational content. Phone call analysis and customer service (00:24:22) Jeremy explains the value of listening to service advisor calls for assessing competency and customer responses. Service advisor's impact on top-line sales (00:26:26) Jeremy highlights the significant impact of service advisor competency on the shop's top-line sales. Life Cycles with Customers (00:30:57) Jeremy shares a personal anecdote about a customer's car and the importance of understanding customer needs. Building Trust with Customers (00:31:35) Jeremy discusses the importance of building trust with customers and ensuring they follow the shop's process for repairs. Market Trends and Automotive Industry (00:32:52) Jeremy talks about market trends, the impact of COVID-19, and the future of the automotive industry, including the rise of EVs and hybrid vehicles. Success in the Marketplace (00:34:19) The discussion revolves around the importance of solid processes, good people, and effective marketing to succeed in the marketplace. Communication and Networking (00:35:18) The conversation shifts to the significance of communication and networking, including a mention of the Disney Institute's emphasis on personal interaction. Reflecting on Life's Milestones (00:37:21) Jeremy reflects on life beyond 50, the legacy he aims to leave, and the importance of capturing special moments with loved ones.
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/ -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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