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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 carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
Key Highlights:
Matt reflects on the idea of self-awareness and balance, emphasizing that "everything comes from you" and that we are all part of a larger matrix of experiences and growth.
Vision Conference Recap:
Matt shares his experience at the Vision Conference, where he faced a challenging drive through a snowstorm and crosswinds to get there. He highlights the hands-on training sessions he participated in, including: Key Cutting and Programming Class: Co-taught with Andrew Sexton, where attendees got to physically cut keys and program them using a Honda ignition system. Pico Training: A full day of hands-on training with Scott Shotton, focusing on practical, car-side diagnostics. Tech Talks: Featuring Garrett Jacobson (HP Tuners) and Zeb Beard (Thermal Imaging), both of whom delivered high-energy, informative sessions.
Key Takeaways from Vision:
HP Tuners: Matt learned new functionalities of the tool, even after using it for over five years. Garrett Jacobson’s class demonstrated how intuitive and powerful the tool can be for diagnostics. Thermal Imaging: Zeb Beard emphasized the importance of using thermal imagers regularly, even when it doesn’t seem immediately necessary. His session focused on diesel diagnostics but applied to all vehicles.
Personal Reflections and Connections:
Matt shares heartfelt moments from the conference, including dinners with industry friends like Dan Baumgartner, Matt Hall, Kevin Looney, and others. They reminisced about Harvey Chan, a beloved figure in the industry who passed away too soon, and the impact he had on everyone. Matt reflects on the duality of emotions—being sad about losing someone but happy to share stories and memories.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories:
Matt dives into the importance of understanding the "behind-the-scenes" of how things are created, whether it’s a business, a movie scene, or even a professional wrestling match. He shares an iconic wrestling story about Stone Cold Steve Austin and Bret Hart, highlighting how collaboration and trust led to one of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.
Themes of Authenticity and Sharing Knowledge:
Matt discusses the tendency in the industry to want to feel "special" or to exaggerate success stories. He emphasizes the importance of being honest about how things are achieved, whether it’s diagnosing a tough problem or building a successful shop. He encourages technicians and shop owners to share their real stories, even if they involve luck or being in the right place at the right time.
Filling Your Own Bucket:
Matt reflects on the need for self-validation and filling your own "bucket" rather than constantly seeking external validation. He stresses the importance of being honest with yourself and others, giving credit where it’s due, and taking pride in your work without exaggeration.
Key Quotes:
"Set the freaking thermal imager on your diagnostic cart and start using it, even when you don’t know why." "At some point, you’re going to have to fill your own cup. You’re going to have to be content with yourself." "The real stories, if somebody could tell them, didn’t take away from the magic. It’s the art, the craftsmanship, the creativity that’s magical."
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/
The 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 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 Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By Joe Marconi
Many auto repair shops are adding a fee to the final invoice for customers using credit cards. I get it, but don't agree.
For me it's simple. First, do your best to negotiate the best deal from your credit card provider service. Next, take that fee and add it to your cost of doing business. To me, I consider this fee an expenses, just like all other expenses: office supplies, utility bill, insurance, taxes, training, travel expenses, maintenance, etc. etc.
From your total average monthly expenses, you will be able to determine your breakeven, and from there, set your net profit goal. In other words, forget about the charging the customer a fee, just build into your overall prices. You will accomplish the same thing, and not bring attention to the customer that small fee that may be a big deal.
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By nptrb
Welcome to 2025! As a new year begins, it’s time to start thinking about taxes.
For auto repair shop owners, understanding potential tax deductions is crucial for maximizing profitability.
This blog post will explore some common tax write-offs available to your business. It will help you keep more of your hard-earned money so you can achieve success!
Understanding Deductible Expenses
The IRS allows businesses to deduct “ordinary and necessary” expenses.
This includes costs that are common and helpful in the day-to-day operations of your auto repair shop.
Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)
This includes the direct costs associated with the parts you sell and install.
COGS covers everything from small items like spark plugs and brake pads to larger components such as engine parts and tires.
Accurate and detailed records of all purchases, including invoices and receipts, are essential when reporting these deductions.
It’s critical to properly value your inventory at the beginning and end of the year because this directly affects your COGS and, consequently, your taxable income.
Labor Costs
Labor costs are another substantial deduction that you will want to claim.
Labor costs encompass:
Employee wages Employee salaries Employee benefits When examining your labor costs, be sure to report the gross wages paid to everyone, from mechanics and service writers to administrative staff. These are the people who keep your shop running like a well-oiled machine.
The employer-paid portions of Social Security, Medicare, and unemployment taxes are also deductible, along with various employee benefits like health insurance and retirement plan contributions.
Operational Expenses
Operational expenses cover the day-to-day costs of running your business.
This category includes:
Rent for your shop space (if you lease) Utilities such as electricity, water, and gas The maintenance and repair fees of your shop equipment and facilities Insurance for business liability, property, and company vehicles Expenses related to promoting your business, such as online advertising, print ads, and local sponsorships, fall under deductible advertising and marketing costs, which are also operational expenses.
You can even deduct the fees paid to professionals and service providers such as accountants, lawyers, and other consultants for business-related services.
Depreciation
Depreciation is often an overlooked deductible, but it is important in maximizing your profit, nonetheless, because it allows you to deduct the cost of long-term assets over their useful life.
Depreciation deductions apply to equipment such as lifts, diagnostic tools, and other essential items used in your shop.
If you have company vehicles that are used solely for business purposes, such as a tow truck, you can also deduct their depreciation.
Other Deductions
COGS, labor costs, operational expenses, and depreciation are the core categories, but that doesn’t mean other dedications don’t apply.
Here are a few more auto shop costs to consider claiming:
Employee training Continuing education Business travel for industry conferences or training Unpaid invoices from customers (you may be able to deduct the unpaid amount as a bad debt!)
And always remember. . .
Meticulous record-keeping is absolutely essential for substantiating your deductions.
Keep all invoices, receipts, and other relevant documentation organized. An online accounting system such as Quickbooks Online can help!
Tax laws can be complex, so consulting with a professional is highly recommended. They can provide personalized advice and ensure you’re taking advantage of all applicable deductions.
Remember: tax laws can change, so stay informed about any updates that may affect your business so you can stay on the right track to growth!
Proper planning and education will help you significantly reduce your tax liability and improve your bottom line year after year!
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By Joe Marconi
I want wish everyone the very best this holiday Season, and a prosperous and healthy 2025 and beyond!
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