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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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Episode 200 - Balancing Customer Service & Profitability in Auto Repair With Rick White & Mike HimesBy Changing The Industry
Episode 200 - Balancing Customer Service & Profitability in Auto Repair With Rick White & Mike Himes
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By marxautocenter
Hello all,
I'm currently the General Manager of a pre-owned vehicle sales and service center. The business has a great reputation in the community, and has done well for 35 years. The current owners are ready to retire and enjoy a life of less responsibilities. They have deemed me fit to take control, and are helping me out by carrying the note, with a good down payment of course. We are still working on the nuts and bolts of the deal, and it has me thinking of all the avenues I could pursue in the future. Which leads to my question, should I continue to sell cars, or just focus on service? I know I'm not giving much information, but I'm looking to hear from other owners who may have experience on both ends, on some pros and cons. I know the 2 segments are symbiotic, as sales gives us future service work, and service has the option of offering vehicles for sale when a service customers vehicle is deemed not worth repairing.
The current numbers are skewed, as service gives a discounted rate to sales in the manner of 50 dollars per hour of labor, as opposed to the 134.77, and also parts are at cost. I am a numbers guy, and would like to make a decision on what would be most profitable, and I will have a better idea as we work over the reports.
I'm just looking for opinions from knowledgeable folks. We don't have a master technician at the moment, so we struggle on diagnostics sometimes, and I would have to resolve that should I decide to remove sales from the equation.
Sales end is currently handled solely by one owner, other than myself talking to customers on the lot. We have a license now for 30 cars.
Fenced in yard behind building capable of storing 40+ cars, with a front lot that displays the 30 vehicles for sale.
Great customer base, minimal advertising in the 35 years of business. ARO is 426.20 currently, and we average around 2000 RO's annually in the last 4-5 years.
I know I'm not providing enough information, but I can update when more becomes available.
Thanks in advance!
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By carmcapriotto
Podcasting isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about sharing the journey. In this episode, we tackle the hard truth: Podcast hosts don’t have it all figured out. From the insecurities of giving advice to the challenges of staying authentic, we explore what it really means to put yourself out there as a host.
You’ll discover how to sift through advice, find what works for you, and embrace the imperfect process of learning and leading. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have it all together, this episode will remind you—you’re not alone.
Listen in for an honest discussion about navigating the auto repair industry, embracing authenticity, and growing through the challenges of imperfection!
Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal’s Certified
Network of shops are trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at
RepairPal.com/shops
Are you ready to convert clients to members? App fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your own customer loyalty app. Visit Appfueled.com
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-118-doing-video-every-day-for-a-month/ - Episode 118 VEDA
https://agencyanalytics.com/blog/how-profit-first-helped-this-agency-scale - Profit First Was the Key to Our Agency’s Financial Transformation
https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-125-its-ok-to-dream-big-stop-playing-small/ - It’s OK to Dream Big (Stop Playing Small)
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) Brian introduces the podcast and sets the theme about podcast hosts not having all the answers. Inspiration from Mike Allen's Post (00:00:10) Discussion on how Mike Allen's humorous post sparked Brian's reflections on podcasting and advice-giving. Brian's Insecurities as a Host (00:01:15) Brian shares his personal insecurities regarding his role as a podcast host and influencer. Critique of Influencers (00:02:26) Brian expresses frustration with influencers who claim to have life figured out, relating it to his experiences. Sharing Personal Experiences (00:03:33) Emphasis on the importance of sharing personal learning experiences rather than presenting oneself as an expert. Struggles with Advice-Giving (00:04:36) Brian discusses his ongoing struggles with the advice he shares in his podcasts and posts. Imposter Syndrome (00:05:37) Brian reflects on feelings of imposter syndrome when sharing advice on managing expenses and business practices. Going Against Popular Opinion (00:06:46) Brian talks about the challenges of discussing unpopular business opinions and the reactions he receives. Sponsor Promotion: RepairPal (00:08:54) Brian promotes RepairPal and its benefits for auto repair shops seeking new customers. Sponsor Promotion: App Fueled (00:09:55) Introduction of App Fueled and its services for building customer loyalty apps for auto repair businesses. Rewarding Success Stories (00:10:59) Brian shares the rewarding experience of hearing success stories from listeners implementing his advice. Discernment in Advice-Giving (00:12:03) Brian advises listeners to discern the credibility of advice from various influencers and podcasters. Conclusion and Reflection (00:13:10) Brian wraps up the discussion, emphasizing the importance of honesty in sharing experiences and insights.
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
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By carmcapriotto
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:
In today’s episode, Craig dives into an acronym that’s deceptively simple yet surprisingly difficult to master—KISS: “Keep It Simple, Stupid!” We explore the challenges of simplifying communication, especially in specialized industries like auto repair, where jargon can create barriers rather than build trust.
Join us as we examine why breaking complex ideas into plain language is a critical skill for professionals, advisors, and leaders.
Plus, don’t miss our Word of the Day: Esoteric! We’ll unpack its meaning and reflect on why keeping your message inclusive and relatable matters.
Watch Full Video Episode
Key Takeaways:
KISS in Communication: Simplifying your message ensures understanding, builds trust, and fosters influence. The Pitfall of Jargon: Industry-specific language often excludes clients and hinders communication. Practical Examples: We discuss areas in the shop we can focus on simplification.
Quote of the Episode:
"If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." – Albert Einstein
Segment Breakdown:
Introduction: Why the auto repair industry is full of acronyms and why KISS stands out. Word of the Day: Esoteric—what it means and how it relates to communication. Challenges in Communication: Overcomplicating explanations in professional settings. Breaking down technical terms for clients. Personal Reflections: Early lessons in the KISS principle from mentors and experiences, including Toastmasters. Practical Tip: Strategies for simplifying communication in daily interactions.
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:
The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com. "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.
AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com
AutoLeap at AutoLeap.com. Are you tired of juggling multiple tools to manage your auto repair shop? Say hello to the streamlined efficiency of AutoLeap, the #1 all-in-one Auto Repair Shop Management Software!
Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.
In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.
Contact Information
Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected] Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
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/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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