Automotive Repair Shop Management

Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive Is your shop struggling with fewer repair orders and dropping sales? It may not be about losing customers—your clients could just be driving less. In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, walks you through a real-life example of how customer driving behavior (and simple mileage tracking) revealed critical insights for a struggling $2M shop. Learn how to use your own data to better understand your customer base, track hidden metrics, and adjust your strategy—before your bottom line takes another hit. In this episode: Why fewer visits doesn’t always mean fewer customers How to calculate mileage trends using your shop management system The difference between customers and repair orders (hint: it matters) How remote work and economic shifts impact car care habits How to conduct a customer behavior audit—without creeping them out Action steps to track spending per mile and make smarter business decisions Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS 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 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: [email protected] 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/ 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

58, been here 42 years, another 4 years and we will see...

1st 6wks or so up. The last 6-7 have cratered.  Phone's aren't ringing and people aren't spending in our area.  I think we've started in a recessionary period and our area is on the front lines of it.

Brian and Hallie break down Google Local Services Ads (LSA) and how auto repair shops are using them to bring in more leads at lower costs. Unlike traditional Google Ads, LSA charges per lead instead of per click, making it a cost-effective approach to customer acquisition. Some shops have reported leads as low as $7 per call. They cover how to set up LSA, key verification steps, and ways to optimize a shop’s Google Business Profile for better rankings. The discussion also explores how specialty shops can use LSA effectively and when Google Ads might still be useful. With LSA now open to auto repair shops nationwide, early adopters have a clear advantage. Brian and Hallie explain how to make the most of it and why now is the best time to get started. Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal is the key that unlocks more business for your repair shop. 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) Google Local Service Ads AutoOps - Scheduling Tools for Auto Shops The Google Guarantee Google Screened Keywords in Reviews – Adding Fuel to the Fire Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) Brian Walker introduces the podcast and guest, Hallie Wassinger, discussing the importance of Google Local Services Ads. Overview of Google Local Services Ads (00:02:53)  Hallie explains the recent availability of Google Local Services Ads for auto repair shops across the U.S. Historical Context of Local Services Ads (00:03:25)  Discussion on the past availability of Google Guaranteed Ads and their expansion to auto repair shops. Current Availability and Limitations (00:04:38)  Hallie details the current state of Local Services Ads for tire shops and their limited availability. Cost Structure of Local Services Ads (00:05:34)  Introduction to the pay-per-lead model, highlighting its differences from traditional Google Ads. Service Categories for Auto Repair (00:06:45) Hallie outlines the specific services auto repair shops can advertise under Local Services Ads. Lead Generation Process (00:07:44)  Explanation of how leads are generated through phone calls or messages via the Local Services Ads dashboard. Ongoing Maintenance of Ads (00:08:31)  Discussion on the necessity of monitoring and rating leads to optimize the ad performance. Success Stories from Beta Testing (00:10:55)  Brian shares a success story from Chris Cotton, highlighting low lead costs achieved through Local Services Ads. Lead Cost Insights (00:11:39)  Hallie provides average lead cost data, emphasizing the effectiveness of the ads for auto repair shops. Visibility of Local Services Ads (00:12:18)  Brian describes how Local Services Ads appear prominently in search results, enhancing visibility. Google Screened vs. Google Guaranteed (00:13:02)  Hallie explains the differences between Google Screened and Google Guaranteed, focusing on their application processes. RepairPal Sponsorship Message (00:14:27)  Brian thanks RepairPal for sponsoring the episode and discusses the benefits of being in their certified network. App Fueled Sponsorship Message (00:15:32)  Brian introduces App Fueled, promoting their customer loyalty app for auto repair shops. Verification Process for Shops (00:16:33)  Hallie outlines the verification process for shops to join Google Local Services Ads, including necessary checks. Verification Steps for LSA (00:16:50)  Overview of the verification process for auto repair shops applying for Google Local Services Ads. Challenges with Specialty Shops (00:19:14)  Discussion on difficulties specialty shops face with Google Local Services Ads targeting. Specialization in Google Ads (00:20:03)  Insights on why specialized shops may benefit more from traditional Google Ads. Opportunities with LSA (00:22:05)  Exploration of the current opportunities available for shops using Google Local Services Ads. Cost Benefits of LSA (00:23:13)  Comparison of lead costs between Google Local Services Ads and traditional Google Ads. Importance of Google Business Profile (00:24:29)  Discussion on how optimizing Google Business Profiles impacts LSA ad performance. Role of Reviews in SEO (00:27:40)  Emphasis on the significance of keywords in customer reviews for improving visibility. Optimizing Photos for LSA (00:29:42)  Best practices for managing and updating photos in Google Local Services Ads. Pricing for LSA Management (00:31:01)  Details on the costs associated with managing Google Local Services Ads for shops. Introduction to LSA (00:33:47)  Discussion on the performance of Google Local Services Ads and how to get started. Discovery Call Process (00:34:15)  Details on scheduling a discovery call and assessing local competition for LSA. Final Thoughts on LSA (00:34:38)  Emphasis on the importance of early adoption of LSA for auto repair shops. Self-Management of LSA (00:34:40)  Advice on running LSA independently, highlighting the required time and dedication. Closing Remarks (00:35:29)  Thanking listeners and sponsors, and encouraging engagement with the podcast. 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

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech In this episode, Matt dives deep into the world of leadership, drawing an interesting parallel between basketball and the world of auto repair. In this episode, Matt discusses: The significance of March Madness and The Shot—not the Michael Jordan moments you might expect, but the shot in the 1992 NCAA tournament between Duke University and the Kentucky Wildcats. Insights into Coach Mike Krzyzewski's (Coach K) leadership style, particularly during high-pressure moments, and how it parallels the leadership needed in running a shop. How Coach K's calm, confidence, and ability to empower his players to take ownership in crucial moments played a pivotal role in Duke's success. The importance of leadership that encourages autonomy, confidence, and creating an environment where your team can thrive and make decisions that align with your vision. A breakdown of Christian Laettner's mindset during the game and how the Duke team overcame a seemingly lost situation with just 2.1 seconds left on the clock. Matt takes us through the dramatic ending of the game and how Coach K's simple yet powerful leadership moment shaped the outcome, drawing lessons for managers and leaders in the aftermarket industry. This episode isn't just for basketball fans; it's for anyone looking to inspire leadership and develop a high-performing team. By trusting your people, giving them autonomy, and showing calm, quiet confidence, you can help your team overcome challenges and come out on top. 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 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