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  2. I was mostly on the body shop side of dealers and bodyshop managers tended to stay a few years then move to different dealer. That reason was almost always pay based or not getting along with the ownership somehow. And in many cases the Bodyshop techs would if they liked the managers style and attitude, would leave and follow that manager. Was not uncommon to see 3 or 4 techs up and leave with the out going manager. That normally told you that manager treated those fellows well, respected them and they him. When a dealer went through 4 or 5 bodyshop managers in 4 or 5 years that told you is was pretty unlikely that that dealer found 4 or 5 poor managers, but that the dealer principle was poor in his management style. Things have changer over the years with employees, but I think all of us/them still require some level of respect for us to want to continue working for that person/manager/ corporation or business. Money is not always the factor keeping someone working for you. Just my opinon.
  3. Today
  4. Costs are rising, and every shop owner needs to make the decision on where to spend and how much. Events like the R+W can be valuable in terms of knowledge and networking, and morale. As for the P/L, there needs to be a line item for Training and a budget. That budget will depend on the level of your team and your goals. I would look at my total overall expenses (not including tech pay), and my goal is keep total expenses no more than 40% of total revenue. You business model, was different..
  5. I agree with you, and to your point, this is a problem. Thanks for the valuable feedback!
  6. If you are on any social media you see the trend today is to move jobs. Watch and listen as they explain why, todays employee feel the only way to advance is to constantly seek out new employment, pit employer against employer and leverage the best deals. They talk constant about how employers do not value the employee, there are sights where employees go to rate the employer and share pay rates. Our trade is no different. We don't provide clear career paths, pay increase, benefits etc. Long gone are the days when employees stayed at one place for their career. They take 401k and head for the door. No easy answer, make your little part of the world the best you can and carry on.
  7. I 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!”
  8. Yesterday
  9. Ugh! It may not be actual overselling but it's certainly the perception of overselling. The darn (AAA) survey that said customers "feel" they were overcharged, but they don't explain how the customer decided that. I TRIED to get a copy of the AAA study but to no avail. ESPECIALLY how the actual questions were worded, which is important. And this lame idea about the HUGE value of videos of the needed repairs, the "transparency." I saw a customer's video of cracks in his differential rubber mount, "needing" replacement. but no clunking. And this was part of a $4000 estimate on a $5000 Lexus. It was from a Lexus dealer. I see this (common) stuff as the main problem with the perception of our industry, NOT the alleged unscrupulous shops, which I guess to be about 10% on the shops, if that. AND I heard (an exaggerated?) comment that 3/4 of first time customers don't come back. Jeez, I wonder why? Overselling. QUIT doing if. Suggest half of it and they'll come back. Meaning less money spent on advertising. I could go on. Sorry ...
  10. Last week
  11. Hello guys I’m Jade Trost 56 years. New on this forum
  12. Earlier
  13. The fact that inflation is under control is a good thing But that does not mean that the normal operating expenses have gone down. In fact, rising rents, utilities costs, insurance costs, etc. are much higher today than just a few years ago, How will you as a shop owner respond to this economic situation? And what about your employees? They are feeling the pain of increased prices too.
  14. A great recap of some of the events and scenarios that could happen. Life may throw us a curve ball, are we ready? A important and worthwhile podcast for shop owners!
  15. You bring up great points. To add to your comments, this mindset of hiding cash also gives the shop owner a false sense of financial security, and leading to so many other negative consequences, as you mentioned.
  16. NAPA trainers Curt Eigenberger, Bill Weaver, and Randy Cohen, discuss the critical role of training in the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). The conversation underscores the industry's evolution, the need for technicians to update their skills continuously, and the overarching theme of safety and ongoing education in response to technological advancements. The role of mechanical and technology specialists is changing faster than a pit stop at the Indy 500. Always know that training is a key pillar to your strategic success. We're not just talking about keeping up with the latest tech but about staying ahead of the curve. Show Notes: Link to NAPA Auto Tech Training Technology Skills and Mindset (00:02:06) The conversation delves into the mindset and skills required for today's technology specialists, emphasizing the blend of engineering knowledge and artisan skills. Evolving Training with Technology (00:04:57) The evolution of training in response to technological advancements, including the need to adapt to industry trends and technician needs. Youth in the Automotive Industry (00:06:53) Insights on the changing demographics in the automotive industry, including the increasing interest in technology and electronics among young technicians. Preparing Future Specialists (00:09:47) Identifying and grooming individuals for technology specialist roles, emphasizing the importance of motivation, desire, and forward-thinking. Traits of Successful Specialists (00:13:26) Key traits of successful technology specialists, including problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and the ability to anticipate future industry developments. Recruiting and Identifying Talent (00:14:44) The recruitment of potential technology specialists, with an emphasis on identifying talent within the existing workforce and beyond. The need for a different mindset (00:16:16) The need for individuals to adapt to new technologies and change their mindset. Adapting to high-voltage electricity (00:17:12) The importance of understanding and respecting high voltage electricity and the need for proper training and safety measures. Safety and training for electric vehicles (00:19:12) The necessity of safety and proper training for working on electric vehicles, emphasizing the need for awareness and respect rather than fear. Changing approach to working on vehicles (00:21:31) The need to rethink traditional practices and prioritize safety when working on vehicles, especially in the context of electric vehicles. Pre-qualifications and assessments for EV training (00:24:30) The importance of pre-qualifications and assessments for individuals attending EV training, emphasizing the need for certification and safety awareness. The future of automotive technology (00:27:02) The future of automotive technology, including trends in alternative fuels and propulsion systems, and the evolving nature of the industry. Embracing change and technology in the industry (00:28:55) The excitement and opportunities in embracing new technologies and changes in the automotive industry, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation. Adapting to new roles in the industry (00:29:14) The shift away from traditional stereotypes in the automotive industry, focusing on the evolving roles and opportunities for individuals interested in technology. The importance of conversational learning (00:32:53) The value of conversational and interactive learning, allowing for open discussions and addressing individual struggles and concerns during training. The importance of class engagement (00:33:22) Encouraging conversational learning and active participation in training classes. The value of asking questions (00:34:55) The importance of asking questions, even if they seem basic, to enhance learning for everyone. 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/ 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 Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
  17. This week, Hunt takes a deep dive into the hot-button issue of price increases within the auto repair sector. He offers a nuanced examination of vendor pricing, market dynamics, and the psychological elements of setting rates in your business. With examples from real-life scenarios, this episode is a treasure trove for auto repair shop owners striving for balance between profitability and customer loyalty in today’s volatile economic climate. • The Psychology of Pricing: Unpacking the reaction to vendor price increases and what it reveals about our own pricing strategies. • Market Dynamics: Exploring the balance between cost, value, and competition in the auto repair industry. • Strategic Decision-Making: How to navigate the complexities of pricing decisions to ensure business growth and sustainability. • Real-Life Examples: Actual examples from a shop owners' group debate to illustrate broader industry challenges. Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support? It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it. After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice. Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Great news, you don’t have to go it alone. 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: [email protected] Get a copy of my Book: Download Here Aftermarket Radio Network Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
  18. Not to mention if they want to get a bank loan or a credit card or anything that might depend on their "income." Sure, it might feel nice to have that "extra cash," but anyone who wants to or is willing to work "under the table, " or "off the books" is really cheating themselves, including shop owners who skim the cash payments and only report what has a paper trial, ie checks and credit card receipts. I mean, cash payments aren't that big of a piece of the pie, are they? So, what's the big deal if I take the cash from quick jobs, it's not hurting anyone is it? (For the record, all italics are meant SARCASTICALLY and I am in no way advocating it.)
  19. Mike Ragsdale is the founder of the 30a Company, and he has an incredible story of being called out by his kids when they got tired of hearing him talk about his dream life without ever pursuing it. This is an incredibly inspiring episode that may result in you exploring how you can create a life you don’t need to escape from. Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops 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
  20. Matt Fanslow explores the complexities of electricity in automotive diagnostics. He breaks down fundamental concepts of volts, amps, resistance, and Ohm's law, using practical examples to clarify their roles in vehicle electrical systems. Show Notes Challenges of Explaining Electricity (00:01:15) Fundamental Aspects of Electricity (00:02:42) NAPA Auto Tech Training (00:18:20) Understanding Voltmeter Readings (00:19:21) Ground Reference and Voltage Drop (00:20:29) Effect of Resistance on Voltage (00:22:44) Series Circuit and Voltage Split (00:29:17) Verification of Electrical Issues (00:32:29) Fuse Block and Voltage Verification (00:34:44) Voltage Drop Testing (00:34:55) Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com Email Matt: [email protected] Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/ Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
  21. When it comes to financial regulations, understanding and complying with Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) is key for businesses. Beneficial Ownership Information refers to the details of individuals who ultimately own or control a legal entity. These regulations were established in 2021 by the Corporate Transparency Act to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and other illicit finance activities. In this post, we’ll break down what BOI is, who it’s for, how to fill it out, and its significance for businesses. What is a Beneficial Ownership Form? A Beneficial Ownership form is a regulatory requirement enforced by agencies like the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in the United States. It requires that certain businesses collect and report information about their beneficial owners (AKA, the individuals who ultimately own or control the company). This information allows law enforcement agencies and financial institutions to identify and prevent illicit financial activities. Who Needs to Provide Beneficial Ownership Information? BOI requirements typically apply to legal entities such as corporations and LLCs. If your business was created in the United States by filing a document with the Secretary of State or a similar office, you’ll be required to report about your beneficial owners. BOI requirements also apply to foreign companies that were registered to do business in any U.S. state or Indian tribe by the necessary filing. Companies required to report are called “reporting companies,” and therefore, may have to obtain information from their beneficial owners and report on that information to FinCEN. There are 23 types of business entities that are exempt from BOI reporting, including publicly traded companies, nonprofit organizations, and certain large operating companies. How to File a Beneficial Ownership Report To fill out a BOI form, it involves providing detailed information about the beneficial owners of the company. Follow this step-by-step guide to file a beneficial ownership report if your company is required by law. STEP #1: IDENTIFY BENEFICIAL OWNERS First, determine who qualifies as a beneficial owner of your company according to regulatory guidelines. This typically includes individuals who own or control at least 25% of the entity’s ownership interests or have significant control over its operations. You can find this information and more in the BOI Small Entity Compliance Guide. STEP #2: GATHER REQUIRED INFORMATION Next, collect the information required for each beneficial owner of the company. This includes their full legal name, date of birth, residential address, Social Security number (or other government-issued identification number), and the percentage of ownership or control of the company. STEP #3: COMPLETE BOI FORMS To complete the necessary BOI forms, go to https://boiefiling.fincen.gov/ and use either the BOI E-Filing System or the PDF BOI report. There is also a system-to-system API option. Fill out the forms accurately and completely, ensuring that all required fields are filled out with the correct information. STEP #4: VERIFY INFORMATION After filling out the necessary BOI forms, review them for accuracy and completeness. Double-check and verify that all of the information provided for each beneficial owner is up-to-date and accurate. STEP #5: SUBMIT BOI FORMS Once finished and verified, submit the completed BOI forms to the appropriate entities or institutions as required by law, such as financial institutions, government agencies, or regulatory authorities. Why Is Beneficial Ownership Information Important for Businesses? It’s key for businesses to comply with BOI requirements in order to avoid penalties, fines, and legal consequences. By providing accurate and transparent information about their beneficial owners, businesses showcase their commitment to running businesses based on integrity, transparency, fairness, and regulatory and legal compliance. Plus, BOI helps enhance the effectiveness of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing efforts, which provides added protection to the overall financial system. While Beneficial Ownership Information may sound a bit overwhelming and confusing at first, by taking the necessary steps to understand what it is, its purpose, who qualifies, and how to fill out a BOI form, you can rest easy knowing you are meeting the necessary requirements to contribute to a safer, more secure financial environment.
  22. Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Recorded Live at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo, Carm Capriotto, alongside shop owner Kim Auernheimer and industry professional Tracy Capriotto, dive into a myriad of topics relevant to the industry. They reflect on the evolution of the industry and the significance of the Women in Auto Care conference. Kim discusses her journey managing multiple shop locations and the nuances of catering to different communities, while Tracy offers insights on the benefits of personality tests like DISC for workplace harmony. The trio also examines the double-edged sword of social media's role in both personal and professional realms, advocating for a more intentional and productive use of the platforms. This episode is a trove of wisdom, emphasizing continuous personal growth and adaptation in a digitally-driven world. Kim Auernheimer, CS Automotive, 2 locations, TN. Listen to Kim’s Episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode The Women in Auto Care conference (00:00:42) Discussion about the annual Women in Auto Care conference, the value of self-growth, and the camaraderie of women in the industry. Shop ownership and expansion (00:01:57) Conversation about shop ownership, the acquisition of a struggling shop, and the differences between two shop locations. Understanding personality tests (00:06:08) Discussion about the DISC personality test, its significance, and how it helps in understanding oneself and others. Impact of social media (00:12:21) Reflection on the impact of social media on personal and professional lives, the excessive consumption of social media, and the need to create more and consume less. Social Media and Work-Life Balance (00:16:22) Discussion about the impact of social media on personal and professional lives, work-life balance, and the pursuit of validation through likes and comments. Authenticity on Social Media (00:17:52) Exploration of the trap of seeking affirmation through social media, the pressure to present a perfect life, and the importance of authenticity in online interactions. Influence of Social Media (00:20:02) Reflections on the addictive nature of social media, the impact of following strangers, and the trend of using filters and photo manipulation to create an idealized image. Challenges and Social Media (00:23:10) Insights on dealing with challenges and pain points, embracing change, and the need for internal motivation in the face of social media pressures. Social Media and Connection (00:27:02) Discussion on the loss of genuine human connection due to social media, the importance of vulnerability and genuine interaction, and the superficiality of online communication. Social Media Addiction (00:29:10) Exploration of the potential addiction to social media, the tendency to live vicariously through others, and the impact of social media on isolation and escapism. 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 Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
  23. Interesting point. Your business model relied on this strategy. For many long-established business, retention through delivering a great customer experience is also a solid strategy. For many business models, it's more cost effective to retain customers. However, every business needs an infusion of new customers too.
  24. 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 episode, Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching explores the issue of transition leaks in auto repair shops. He explains how frequent task-switching hampers productivity and energy levels for shop owners, service advisors, and technicians. Chris advocates for batch processing to consolidate similar tasks, thereby reducing transition leaks and increasing efficiency. He advises reorganizing work schedules to minimize cognitive load and suggests that while flexibility is necessary, intentional planning can greatly enhance productivity. The episode wraps up with Chris encouraging listeners to embrace growth and efficiency, thanking the sponsor, and promoting a positive work ethic. Transition Leaks (00:00:06) Explanation of the concept and its impact on auto repair shop owners, service advisors, and technicians. Impact on Efficiency (00:02:27) Discussion on how transition leaks lead to lost efficiency and diminished capacity for delivering high-quality service. Batch Processing Strategy (00:04:48) Explanation of the batch processing strategy to combat transition leaks and improve productivity. Applying the Concept (00:07:03) Guidance on analyzing and reorganizing schedules to minimize transition leaks and increase efficiency. Embracing Change (00:09:11) Encouragement to prioritize efficiency and quality by embracing a new way of organizing work schedules. 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 Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
  25. I've said it before and I say it again, we use our Google PPC advertising radius to "throttle our business." Normally, we would be listed at the top of a Google search within a 5-mile radius of the shop. If it got slow, I would increase the size of the radius. If we got slammed, I would even pause our Google PPC ads altogether. If it got slow, I would increase the size of the radius. The largest I've ever gone with our Google PPC program is a 100-mile radius. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt, the Google PPC program works for a transmission repair shop. That's because, in our line of work, it is transactional-based. How it would work for other automotive businesses, where it's usually relationship-based, I can't say for sure. If anybody wants to know that this works, make sure you get hooked up with a call-tracking company and use call tracking where you know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, it's either working or not working. This is true with any type of advertising. Each lead source has a different tracking number. Otherwise, every phone call is just that, another phone call. You have no way of knowing the source of that sales lead. Without call-tracking being a part of any advertising campaign, advertising is just another bill you'd rather do without.
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