Quantcast
Jump to content
This Topic

0 to 60, Starting out as a larger shop

Kevo
 Share

Recommended Posts

Kevo Apprentice

Kevo

Posted
Posted

Ok, so I've asked questions before about operating as a one man shop. My train of thought has been changing lately as I realize that managing a business really has very little to do with whatever that business does and more with marketing, sales and human resources. Basicly, if your going to hire a tech, you'll have to write service for that tech. Might as well hire more techs then and an actual service writer to do the day to day work. Then I could concentrate on managing and marketing the business as well as some specialized work in the shop.

 

So, on the other end of the spectrum, I'd like to hear experiences from those that have started shops from scratch with multiple employees and larger facilities. I'm not talking an all ready existing company that was purchased with employees and existing customer base, but literaly started from scratch. What were your experiences in finding shop space, hiring employees, and how long did it take to get a decent customer base that the shop could pay its own way? It must be difficult to attract good employees to a startup that may not be around for long and has no past history.

 

Kevo

  • Like 1
Gonzo Grand Master

Gonzo

Posted
Posted

I've been at this for well over 30 years. I've seen large shops fail as well as small one man shops come and go. It takes a business plan that fits YOU. If a big shop is your goal then that's where you should focus your efforts. Hire right, fire right. Have the right advertising and the right equipment. Train everyone, which might include in house classes, going to conventions, to even having a known automotive teacher (one of the guys or gals at these conventions) come to your place.

 

I always figured that you have to know twice as much about your job and your business than you'll ever actually use on a daily basis. That goes with the techs too.

 

You'll find your niche. It's out there.

  • Like 1
  • 4 weeks later...
Kevo Apprentice

Kevo

Posted
  • Author
Posted
  On 9/30/2014 at 2:02 AM, xrac said:

I started a new franchise with no experience, no customer base, no employees, no building, and no background in automotives. We bought the property, built the building, bought all the equipment, all the inventory, and hired all the employees and all with BORROWED MONEY . I had guidance and training from the franchisor but nothing great. It took us about 5 years to get established and we are now 15 years into the project. We haven't done bad in that I have earned a living but it has been much harder than I imagined. I would be in better shape if I had had better business guidance. I probably could have made more money pursuing some other interests that I have. You need to have guidance from someone who is successful and knows what they are doing. You must have a good POS system with good financial control. I do not think we would have survived and finally succeeded if we hadn't had literally the best location in our town.

Its been awhile since I've been able to respond, but did you have issue when you were initially hiring people? I guess with a franchise it would be a bit easier, but I think it would be hard to quit a known paying job to work at a startup with no history if I was in the employees shoes.

 

Kevo

Kevo Apprentice

Kevo

Posted
  • Author
Posted

I guess I should maybe post up a few more thoughts on what I'm thinking business wise.

 

Looking at shops in the area, no one caters to trucks. I happen to like trucks and think a shop that caters to them would do well. We have a lot of trucks in this area, a lot of ranches too. We have big trucks, small trucks, work trucks, play trucks, fleet trucks and a ton of suvs, and I obviously wouldn't shy away from working on cars either. I'm also thinking that carrying some accessories and selling them couldn't hurt either. Maybe carrying some commonly used stuff like tie down straps and towing junk and then just being able to get the rest. I'm heavily into rock crawling so carrying offroad parts is a must, although I probably wouldn't stock that much.

 

The backbone of the business would always be repair as that's the most common need, but with the business going it would open some doors for my other passions in life. I'd just have to watch the financial impact of those passions.

 

Now my problem. I was a general automotive mechanic. I understand cars and trucks with gas engines, but I have no experience with diesel trucks other than changing oil on them. In my area, you can't have a shop that works on trucks that doesn't know anything about diesels. I would need to hire someone for that. Its possible I could get along for awhile on my own, but I'm not sure thats a great idea if I'm just starting out and trying to make a name for myself.

 

Kevo

ATLAuto Rising Star

ATLAuto

Posted
Posted

Kevo, we did exactly this. Opened 3mos ago from nothing to 3 amazing techs and a phenomenal service adviser. I'm probably not the best guy to ask on this, but we did break even our first month, if that counts for anything.

 

Take look at our website and feel free to shoot me a PM anytime. www.ANTHEMAUTO.com

ATLAuto Rising Star

ATLAuto

Posted
Posted
  On 10/25/2014 at 1:28 AM, xrac said:

Breaking even the first month is a very large achievement. You have a beautiful facility. Very modern and attractive. Thanks for the tour today. I love the amount of space that you have and the location. I predict a bright future.

 

Thank you for your kind words, Frank. It was great to see you.

Kevo Apprentice

Kevo

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Thats awesome you broke even the first month! Hopefully the following months were even better!

 

That is an amazing transformation on that repair facility!

 

I'll ask you also, did you have issues hiring techs?

 

Kevo

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Available Subscriptions

    See all Subscription Plans

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

    • Joe Marconi
      The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart
      By Joe Marconi in Joe's 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

    • carmcapriotto
      The Largest Tax Cut in US History? [E170] - Business By The Numbers
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our partner Promotive
      In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA of Paar Melis and Associates, explores the details behind what former President Trump is calling the "largest tax cut in U.S. history." What’s actually in the proposed bill? Will any of it pass Congress? And most importantly, what could it mean for auto repair shop owners and other small business operators?
      Hunt unpacks what we know so far, what’s still uncertain, and how business owners can start thinking strategically. From potential expansions of the Child Tax Credit and QBI deduction to the controversial proposals of eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security, this episode covers the key elements that matter most.
      Whether you’re looking to stay informed or proactively plan for future changes, this episode offers a grounded look at what’s on the table—and what’s likely to be left off.
      Key Takeaways:
      What’s included in the proposed 2025 tax cut and what’s still up for debate The current status of the Child Tax Credit, QBI deduction, bonus depreciation, and SALT deduction cap Potential elimination of taxes on Social Security income—and whether that’s realistic A breakdown of the proposed “Millionaire Tax” and its implications for high earners Why the talk of tax-free tips and overtime could create major planning opportunities for business owners
      What shop owners need to watch for and how to prepare as legislative discussions continue
      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: podcast@paarmelis.com
      Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413
      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 https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • MikesPlaceAuto
      Hello from Montana. Longtime mechanic/technician, first-time shop owner
      By MikesPlaceAuto
      Hello from Montana. Longtime mechanic/technician, first-time shop owner. Reaching out to many sources for information and advice. Small shop in rural setting, specializing in electrical and electronics. Thanks for any good words. Mike
    • carmcapriotto
      Marketing To Hire [E152] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
      By carmcapriotto
      So, you didn’t go to school for HR, and let’s be honest, hiring probably wasn’t what you dreamed about when you opened your shop. But here you are, needing to fill those bays and build a solid team.
      In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker is joined by Lisa Coyle of Promotive to break down what it takes to hire in today’s world, and spoiler alert: it’s all about marketing.
      From writing job posts that work to building a reputation techs want to work for, they cover everything you didn’t know you needed to know. You’ll discover why speed is your best friend, how your everyday shop culture is part of your recruiting strategy, and why treating candidates like customers is the game-changer most shop owners miss.
      Whether you’re hiring right now or just trying to build your bench, this episode is packed with smart advice, straight talk, and some seriously valuable insight into what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to marketing your way to a great hire.
      Hit play, and get ready to turn hiring from a headache into a strength. 👊
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you with this episode. RepairPal’s Certified Network of shops is trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at
      RepairPal.com/shops.
      AppFueled makes marketing easy. It’s a CRM designed for auto repair shops with tools like segmentation, reminders, and even a call center. Don’t wait—get started today at appfueled.com
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      Promotive
      Show Notes with Timestamps
      Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:01)  The podcast is introduced as part of the aftermarket radio network. Guest Introduction (00:00:10)  Kim welcomes Lisa Coil from Pro Motive and expresses excitement about the discussion. Personal Anecdote on Hiring (00:01:22)  Kim shares her first impression of Lisa at an industry event and their delayed connection. Marketing and Hiring Discussion (00:02:22)  Kim highlights the importance of marketing in attracting both customers and future team members. Childhood Reflections on Blue-Collar Work (00:03:31)  Kim reflects on societal views of blue-collar jobs and their financial misconceptions. Recruitment Challenges in the Industry (00:04:33)  Discussion on the shortage of skilled blue-collar workers and the need for effective marketing strategies. Understanding Headhunters vs. Recruiters (00:05:23)  Lisa explains the difference between headhunters and recruiters in the hiring process. Recruitment Process Overview (00:06:45)  Lisa describes the comprehensive services provided by headhunters, from job design to candidate negotiation. Common Hiring Problems for Shops (00:09:13)  Lisa outlines key challenges shops face, emphasizing the importance of branding and speed in hiring. Importance of Speed in Hiring (00:09:41)  Lisa stresses the need for quick responses to applicants to secure top talent. Marketing's Role in Job Descriptions (00:12:10)  Discussion on how marketing strategies influence job titles and descriptions to attract candidates. Optimizing Job Listings for Mobile (00:13:04)  Lisa advises shop owners to check how their listings appear on mobile devices for better visibility. Balancing Job Specificity and Attractiveness (00:15:28)  Lisa talks about the need to balance specificity in job titles without deterring potential applicants. Job Posting Strategies (00:18:28)  Discussion on effective places for shops to post job openings. Candidate Treatment (00:18:39)  Advice on treating job candidates like customers for better recruitment. Data Capture Importance (00:18:47)  Emphasis on capturing candidate data for future recruitment needs. Using Job Boards (00:19:55)  Recommendations on utilizing various job boards for recruitment. Applicant Tracking Systems (00:20:51)  Benefits of using applicant tracking systems for managing job applications. Building a Candidate Database (00:21:53)  The importance of maintaining a database of potential candidates over time. Social Media for Recruitment (00:22:46)  Using social media ads for recruitment and the challenges involved. Referral Programs (00:23:43)  Encouraging employee referrals as a strategy for finding candidates. Team Referral Incentives (00:25:27)  Impact of financial incentives on employee referrals for job candidates. Maintaining Candidate Connections (00:25:50)  Importance of staying in touch with candidates for future opportunities. LinkedIn for Hiring (00:27:15)  Discussion on the effectiveness of LinkedIn for hiring technicians. Marketing's Impact on Hiring (00:28:01)  How a shop's marketing affects their ability to attract good candidates. Consumer Reviews Influence (00:28:56)  The role of online reviews in shaping potential candidates' perceptions. Showcasing Company Culture (00:30:27)  The significance of showcasing company culture to attract talent. Careers Page Importance (00:32:55)  Discussion on the essential elements of a careers page for attracting talent. Website for Customers and Employees (00:33:44)  Lisa shares insights on designing websites for both consumers and potential employees. Showcasing Team Members (00:36:04)  Importance of displaying employees on the website to attract future talent. Training and Retention Strategies (00:37:12)  Discussion on the significance of training and retaining employees after hiring. Engagement During Transition (00:38:20)  Keeping candidates engaged between signing the offer and starting their new role. Making First Days Special (00:40:10)  Ideas for creating memorable first-day experiences for new hires. Responding to Negative Reviews (00:43:16)  Advice on handling negative feedback and its impact on employer branding. Reputation Management (00:45:24)  The importance of maintaining a positive reputation as an employer. Finding Pro Motive (00:48:28)  Information on how to connect with Pro Motive for hiring assistance. Closing Remarks (00:49:14)  Wrap-up of the episode and encouragement to listen to future shows.
      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
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Credit Card Processing Fees [E169] - Business By The Numbers
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our partner Promotive
      Credit card fees are eating into shop owners' profits — but should you be passing those costs onto customers? In this episode of Business By The Numbers, Hunt revisits the hot-button topic and shares what’s changed since 2021.
      Key Points:
      Why more shops are experimenting with credit card surcharges today Real-world results from shops that do charge fees — and those that don’t The hidden dangers of incentivizing cash payments How pricing strategy impacts customer loyalty and shop profitability Hunt’s no-BS recommendation for handling credit card costs in 2025
      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: podcast@paarmelis.com
      Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413
      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 https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • nptrb
      Improving Cash Flow in Your Auto Repair Shop
      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.



  • Joe Marconi

    Five Proven Tips to Improve Your Bottom Line

    By Joe Marconi, in Selling Automotive Repair,

    0 comments 1,706 views
    Joe Marconi

    Isn’t It Time We Rethink What a Master Level Technician Is?

    By Joe Marconi, in Automotive Industry,

    1 comment 1 1,894 views
    Joe Marconi

    Marketing Strategies To Attract and Retain Your Ideal Customers

    By Joe Marconi, in Automotive Marketing,

    0 comments 977 views

  • Our Sponsors

Main Sections

More Sections

Discussion Forums

×
×
  • Create New...