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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 champtires
Champtires has started to add new Hankook tires to its available inventory. Multiple sizes and models are now available, and more will be added soon. Examples of current Hankook tires in stock now include:
Hankook Ventus S1 EVO3 225/40-18 92 Y
$159.99/tire
Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 SUV 235/60-18 103 W
$139.99/tire
Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 HRS 275/40-18 103 Y
$179.99/tire
Hankook Ventus S1 evo2 HRS 245/45-17 95 W
$149.99/tire
Hankook Kinergy 4S2 245/40-18 97 V
$148.00/tire
Hankook Kinergy 4S2 235/50-17 96 V
$140.00/tire
Hankook Kinergy 4S2 225/50-18 95 W
$119.99/tire
Hankook Kinergy 4S2 215/45-17 91 W
$133.59/tire
Hankook Kinergy 4S2 195/60-15 88 V
$88.00/tire
More sizes and models will be added to www.champtires.com daily.
To search for new Hankook tires, shop by size, then filter by Hankook brand and new as tread level. Free shipping is included on all website orders.
Prices and availability are accurate as of publication date.
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By JustTheBest
Do you find your shop doesn’t even come up on Google search like the big shops or chains and delivering great customer service is hard, especially when you’re busy or short staffed?
Do you find it hard to keep customers coming back? Is retaining customers a real struggle, never mind getting them to leave you a review on Google or begging them for new customer referrals.
If you’re tired of the car count rollercoaster, I’ve got a short (5 minute) loom video that shows you exactly how I can help you in less than 15 days… and it’s FREE! No, really!
Check it out here!
Matthew
"The Car Count Fixer"
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Recorded at the 2025 Institute Summit, workplace culture expert Dr. Jessica Kriegel discusses her data-driven framework for boosting business performance through clarity, alignment, and accountability, anchored by her "Results Pyramid," which highlights how beliefs and experiences shape outcomes.
The discussion unpacks what truly defines organizational culture, the power of storytelling to inspire change, and challenges common generational stereotypes in the workplace, advocating instead for a focus on individual motivations and behaviors. Dr. Jessica Kriegel, Chief Strategy Officer of Workforce and Labor for Culture Partners Dr. Jessica Kriegel is driven by data and defined by results. She transforms corporate culture for success. As seen on CNBC, MSNBC, CNN, NBC, FOX Business, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and more, Jessica is a household name for all workplace, labor, leadership, women in the workplace, and job markets. Her renowned “Culture Equation” was acquired by Culture Partners in 2021, where she is currently Chief Strategy Officer of Workforce and Labor. https://www.jessicakriegel.com/ Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode The Institute of Automotive Business Excellence: https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/ Overview of Dr. Jessica Kriegel (00:00:00) Three-Step Change Equation (00:02:47) Accountability in Business (00:03:31) Results Pyramid Explanation (00:04:11) Beliefs and Experiences (00:05:09) Defining Workplace Culture (00:06:50) Hospital Story for Illustration (00:12:02) Transformative Change Through Storytelling (00:14:09) Culture of Caring (00:15:09) Storytelling in Meetings (00:15:58) Generational Dynamics (00:17:51) Technology Adoption Across Generations (00:20:37) Connecting with Dr. Kriegel (00:22:23)
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network 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 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 Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/ Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/ 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. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/ Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/ Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By nptrb
As an auto repair shop owner, you’re focused on keeping your business running smoothly. That includes ensuring your employees are happy and financially secure. A simple yet often overlooked aspect of this is their W-4 form.
March is the perfect time to encourage your team to review and update their W-4s. Why? Because it leads to fewer tax-related headaches, happier employees, and a better team retention rate.
In this blog post, we’re discussing why W-4 check-ups are important and what you can do to help your employees!
The Importance of a W-4 March Check-Up
Just like a well-maintained vehicle, a paycheck needs regular tune-ups.
March provides a timely opportunity for your employees to:
Assess their current withholding. Make adjustments based on life changes. Avoid potential under-withholding penalties. Why Should You Care About Your Employees’ W-4s?
While you’re not directly responsible for your employees’ individual tax liabilities, providing valuable resources and encouraging proactive review can significantly benefit your staff and, ultimately, your business!
Improve Your Shop Morale
A surprise tax bill can create stress and financial hardship for your employees and their families. When you encourage W-4 reviews, you show your team that you care about their financial well-being and quality of life outside of the shop. This can help boost employee morale and lead to long-term team retention.
Reduce Payroll Confusion
When your staff’s W-4s are up to date, it minimizes the risk of paycheck questions and concerns. This frees up payroll staff’s time and boosts employee confidence. And let’s be honest: employees who feel supported are more productive. It’s a win-win!
Ways to Help Your Team with their W-4s
Your team doesn’t have to do this alone! Here are several ways to support them with their W-4 check-up.
Give Reminders
Send out a friendly reminder to your employees about the importance of reviewing their W-4s. You can use email, bulletin board notices, or a brief team meeting.
Share Resources
Make sure your team has easy access to the latest W-4 form and the IRS Withholding Estimator. Provide links to these resources in a place that is easily accessible.
Offer Support
W-4s can be confusing! Step into your role as a powerful leader by offering a brief Q&A session with your payroll staff or an external tax professional to answer any questions employees may have.
Provide Common Scenarios
Your auto repair shop employees may have fluctuating incomes due to commissions and overtime. Remind your staff to account for these variations when completing their W-4s. Also, remind them of other life changes that require a W-4 update, such as marriage, children, or buying a house.
The Bottom Line
Taking the extra step of guiding your employees to review their W-4s offers many benefits to your business.
It significantly reduces stress during tax season and minimizes the likelihood of last-minute payroll adjustments.
It also strengthens your relationship with your employees when you show genuine interest in their financial wellness.
When employees aren’t worrying about unexpected tax burdens, they can focus their energy and attention on their tasks, leading to improved efficiency and a shop that thrives!
By encouraging your employees to take a few minutes to review their W-4s, you can create a more financially secure and satisfied team and greater overall shop success!
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By carmcapriotto
Marketing isn’t just about spending money; it’s about strategy, creativity, and knowing what actually works. That’s exactly what Brian and Kim Walker unpack in this conversation with Doug DeLuca, owner of Boca AutoFix, who built a thriving auto repair shop without ever working as a technician before opening his doors.
Doug’s IT background gave him an edge, helping him master SEO, content marketing, and social media, all while running his shop. He shares with Brian and Kim how he tracks data, refines his messaging, and attracts the right clients using unconventional but effective methods. From leveraging Facebook groups to pull in college students to secret-shopping a quick-lube competitor for blog content, Doug proves that marketing success comes from being proactive and intentional.
This conversation tackles why not every shop needs Google Ads, how to structure diagnostic fees without scaring off clients, and the importance of community involvement. Doug’s hands-on, data-driven approach to marketing offers real insights for shop owners looking to take control of their marketing and maximize results.
Brian, Kim, and Doug break it all down, giving shop owners a blueprint for smarter, more effective marketing.
Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for this episode. RepairPal will introduce your shop to new customers through repairpal.com, the largest site for auto repair. Learn more at
RepairPal.com/shops.
Want to revolutionize your marketing? AppFueled does it all—email, text, app notifications, and even call center integration. Stop guessing and start connecting with AppFueled.
How To Get In Touch With The Guest
Doug DeLucca’s Facebook account
[email protected]
BOCA Auto Fix - (561) 826-8834
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
ASTA
They Ask You Answer
They Ask You Answer Podcast Episode 093
Which is the right fit for you? A quick lube or an independent auto repair shop?
Google Local Service Ads
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:01) The podcast begins with a welcome message from the host, Brian Walker. Guest Introduction (00:00:10) Brian introduces co-host Kim and guest Doug DeLuca, owner of Boca Auto Fix. Overview of Boca Auto Fix (00:00:51) Doug shares details about his auto repair shop, including its location and age. Hiring an Apprentice (00:01:09) Doug discusses the recent hiring of an apprentice and the journey leading to this decision. Challenges in Hiring (00:02:13) The speakers reflect on the difficulties shop owners face in finding and hiring young talent. Marketing Journey Begins (00:03:02) Discussion shifts to Doug's initial marketing efforts and his involvement in content creation. Background in Technology (00:04:07) Doug explains his previous technology background and how it influenced his approach to marketing. Learning SEO and Marketing (00:04:45) Doug describes his self-taught journey in SEO and digital marketing after opening his shop. Realizing Marketing Needs (00:06:14) Doug reflects on his initial assumptions about marketing and the reality of attracting customers. Understanding SEO Basics (00:08:09) Doug shares his insights on SEO and the learning process involved in mastering it. Frameworks in Marketing (00:10:25) The conversation explores the use of frameworks in both auto repair and marketing strategies. Adopting "They Ask, You Answer" (00:11:23) Doug discusses his experience with the "They Ask, You Answer" philosophy in content creation. Writing Blogs for Customer Engagement (00:12:21) Doug explains how he uses customer inquiries to create relevant blog content for his shop. Experience at a Quick Lube (00:13:29) Doug shares his firsthand experience at a quick lube to highlight differences in service quality. Experience Comparison (00:14:06) Doug shares his experience of visiting a competitor's shop to understand customer perception and service quality. Proactive Client Advocacy (00:14:57) The team discusses the importance of guiding potential clients to the right service provider based on their needs. Sponsorship and Marketing Tools (00:16:13) Brian introduces RepairPal, highlighting its benefits for attracting new customers and building trust. Customer Loyalty Apps (00:17:51) Brian discusses the advantages of using App Fueled to create customer loyalty programs for auto repair shops. Incognito Visits (00:18:20) Doug talks about visiting a competitor's shop incognito to gain insights without revealing their identity. Collaboration Over Competition (00:19:09) The speakers explore the idea of referring customers to other shops and building relationships in the industry. Challenging Competition Norms (00:20:20) Brian reflects on inviting competitors to the podcast, emphasizing collaboration over traditional competition. Marketing Involvement (00:22:42) Doug explains the ad hoc nature of their marketing efforts and the role of social media in their strategy. Community Involvement (00:27:41) Doug shares their family's volunteer work and how it integrates with their business's social media presence. Engaging the College Market (00:28:51) Doug discusses how 30% of his clients are college students and their marketing strategies. Collaborating with Local Professors (00:31:18) Doug shares his experience working with a marketing professor for student analysis of his business. Challenges of Seasonal Demand (00:32:24) Discussion on the impact of seasonal changes on business demand and local marketing efforts. Starting with Marketing (00:34:02) Doug advises new shop owners to listen to podcasts and conduct online research for marketing. SEO as a Long-Term Strategy (00:35:08) Doug explains the importance of SEO and its long-term benefits for business growth. Understanding Competition (00:36:44) Doug emphasizes the need to analyze competition and not assume marketing strategies will work universally. The Importance of Data (00:39:08) Doug highlights the role of data in assessing marketing effectiveness and making informed decisions. Nuances of Market Dynamics (00:41:14) Discussion on how geographical and seasonal factors affect marketing strategies in auto repair. Client Avatar and Marketing Alignment (00:42:13) Doug explains the significance of understanding the ideal customer for effective marketing strategies. Overcoming Diagnostic Fee Challenges (00:43:09) Discussion on how Doug has adjusted his approach to diagnostic fees to improve customer conversion. The Importance of Evaluation Fees (00:43:40) Discussion on the role of evaluation fees and their impact on shop maturity. Improving Customer Communication (00:44:09) Insights on enhancing customer explanations regarding services and processes. Coaching and Competitive Analysis (00:45:03) How coaching helped refine service policies and improve customer relations. Content Creation and Marketing Strategy (00:46:32) The significance of creating content for customer engagement and marketing. Duck Duck Jeep Initiative (00:47:05) Fun marketing strategy involving ducks to engage with the local Jeep community. Value of Customer Feedback (00:48:46) Importance of understanding customer inquiries and improving service based on feedback. Contact Information for Doug DeLuca (00:49:29) Doug shares how listeners can reach him for further inquiries.
How To Get In Touch
Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook
Meet The Pros
Follow SMP on Facebook
Follow SMP on Instagram
Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book
Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics
Thanks again for listening to The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast on Aftermarket Radio Network. There are some other great shows on the network and you can find them at AftermarketRadioNetwork.com or on your favorite podcast listening apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and many others
Thanks to our Partners,
RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops. Quality Car Repair. Fair Price Guarantee.
App Fueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
The 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.
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 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. https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
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. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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