Twas The Night Before Christmas - mechanic style
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By Joe Marconi in Joe's BlogIt 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
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 the 200th episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton marks a significant milestone for the podcast by taking a moment to reflect on the journey over the past year. He shares personal anecdotes that resonate with the audience, including a heartfelt update on Kimberly, who made the selfless decision to donate a kidney to her brother, highlighting the profound impact of family and generosity.
Chris delves into key topics that are crucial for auto repair shop owners, offering insights and advice that are both practical and forward-thinking. One of the main discussions revolves around the concept of adopting a four-day workweek. He explores the potential benefits this can bring, such as improved work-life balance for employees, increased productivity, and enhanced job satisfaction, while also addressing the challenges and considerations that come with implementing such a change.
Another focal point of the episode is the distinction between commitment and mere interest. Chris emphasizes that true success in business requires a deep commitment, rather than just a passing interest. He encourages shop owners to fully dedicate themselves to their goals and to cultivate a mindset that prioritizes long-term success over short-term gains.
The benefits of business coaching are also highlighted, with Chris advocating for the value of having a mentor or coach to guide business owners through the complexities of running an auto repair shop. He shares how coaching can provide clarity, accountability, and strategic direction, ultimately leading to more effective decision-making and business growth.
Throughout the episode, Chris underscores the importance of professionalism within the industry. He stresses that maintaining high standards of professionalism not only enhances the reputation of individual shops but also elevates the industry as a whole.
In addition, he encourages listeners to take advantage of the marketing resources offered by the podcast's sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. He explains how utilizing these resources can help shop owners effectively reach their target audience, build their brand, and drive business success.
Overall, the episode serves as both a retrospective on the past year's achievements and a motivational message aimed at inspiring business improvement. Chris Cotton's insights and stories provide valuable lessons and encouragement for auto repair shop owners looking to elevate their businesses to new heights.
Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:11)
Overview of the podcast's purpose and the value it offers to auto repair businesses. Celebrating Episode 200 (00:01:08) Kimberly's Kidney Donation (00:02:06) Highlighting Episode 164 - Unlocking Greatness (00:04:21) Highlighting Episode 170 - Four Day Workweek (00:05:24) Preparing for 2025 (00:07:42) Highlighting Episode 172 - Commitment vs. Interest (00:08:46) Highlighting Episode 175 - The Pumpkin Patch (00:09:58) Highlighting Episode 180 - Profit First (00:11:11) Highlighting Episode 185 - Mom and Pop Shops (00:12:00) Highlighting Episode 186 - Coached vs. Uncoached (00:12:46) Highlighting Episode 187 - Project Alpha (00:13:05) Highlighting Episode 189 - Impact of Politics (00:13:55) Highlighting Episode 192 - Self-Obstruction (00:14:20) Highlighting Episode 193 - Being the Best Shop (00:14:46) Highlighting Episode 197 - Chris's Favorite Things (00:15:30) Looking Ahead to Episodes 201 and 202 (00:15:50)
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 #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
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 this episode, Craig is concise as he reflects on the timeless wisdom of Martin Luther King Jr. and how his principles of nonviolent conflict resolution remain highly relevant today. Inspired by recent readings of King’s works, specifically his iconic Letter from Birmingham Jail, Craig explores how these lessons can be applied to resolving conflicts in everyday life—even in situations as modern as addressing negative reviews.
This thoughtful discussion acknowledges the historical context of King’s writings while highlighting their enduring value in promoting understanding, negotiation, and meaningful resolution.
Watch Full Video Episode
Key Points Discussed:
Craig’s Appreciation for MLK’s Legacy: Acknowledging King’s brilliance as a leader, communicator, and writer, Craig emphasizes the enduring relevance of his concepts and principles. The Four Steps of a Nonviolent Campaign (as outlined in Letter from Birmingham Jail):
Collection of Facts: Ensure injustices are present and verified. Negotiation: Open dialogue with a willingness to find common ground. Self-Purification: Prepare yourself to act constructively and maintain the ability to return to negotiation. Direct Action: Take deliberate action aimed at fostering a return to negotiation.
The Word of the Day:
Unfettered.
Adj - Not controlled by anyone or anything. Uninhibited
Modern Applications:
Craig draws parallels between these steps and common missteps in conflict resolution today, such as skipping fact-gathering and jumping straight to retaliation—like leaving a low review without understanding the full story. He discusses how these missed steps can lead to escalation rather than resolution.
Takeaways for Listeners:
People care about how much you know only after they know how much you care. Applying MLK’s principles to situations like resolving a customer complaint or an unjust review can model constructive engagement and encourage others to seek facts, negotiation, and resolution.
This episode is a thoughtful tribute to King’s enduring legacy and a practical guide for applying his lessons to resolve conflicts with empathy and integrity.
Links & Resources:
Letter from Birmingham Jail by Martin Luther King Jr.
Join Craig as he unpacks these timeless lessons and their power to transform the way we approach conflicts in our personal and professional lives.
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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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
Welcome to this episode of Business by the Numbers! Host Hunt Demarest, CPA, explores the recent IRS developments and what they mean for business owners, taxpayers, and accountants alike. With executive orders, funding cuts, and shifting policies, there's plenty to unpack about the future of the IRS and tax compliance.
Key Takeaways:
IRS Funding Cuts: The Inflation Reduction Act promised $80 billion for the IRS, but political maneuvering and budget cuts have significantly reduced this allocation. Commissioner Resignation: The departure of the IRS commissioner raises questions about future agency direction and efficiency. Audit Frequency Impact: With fewer agents and reduced funding, audits for wealthy individuals and large corporations are likely to decrease. Taxpayer Challenges: Delayed refunds, processing slowdowns, and a backlog of cases could worsen due to IRS understaffing. Emerging Trends: Discussion on potential international tax changes and the possibility of an "External Revenue Service" impacting U.S. tax revenue collection. https://www.projectfinance.law/publications/2025/january/trump-executive-orders/ https://waysandmeans.house.gov/2025/01/23/president-trumps-cease-and-desist-to-irs-protects-middle-class-families-and-small-businesses-from-irs-audits-and-weaponization/ https://moneywise.com/a/ch-synd/irs-asks-for-more-funding_1737633682545
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
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]
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
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
Matt Fanslow, an ASE certified Master Automotive Technician, reviews a YouTube video reacting to Google's top questions about car problems. Matt provides his expert insights and clarifications on topics ranging from car batteries, vibrations, and parasitic drains to more complex issues involving EVAP systems and the importance of proper diagnostics. Additionally, he offers commentary on the importance of ongoing training for technicians, skill gaps in the industry, and the economics behind charging for diagnostic work. Matt combines humor and professional knowledge to educate viewers on both basic and advanced automotive questions.
Watch Full Video Episode
Show Notes with Timestamps
React Video (00:00:00) Google's Top Questions (00:01:20) Why Does My Car Battery Keep Dying? (00:01:26) Vibration When Stopping (00:03:10) Why Does My Car Shake When I Drive? (00:04:57) Squeaking When Turning (00:08:32) Shaking When Accelerating (00:10:09) Bad Smell from AC (00:11:44) Shaking When Braking (00:14:52) Gas Leaks and Evaporative Emission Systems (00:15:38) Importance of Oil in Engines (00:17:59) Napa Auto Tech Training Programs (00:20:49) Causes of Car Overheating (00:22:04) Why Cars Need Gas (00:23:39) Reasons for Cars Burning Oil (00:24:01) Backfiring and Misfires in Cars (00:26:05) Expiration of Car Seats (00:27:14) Mechanics' Pricing and Value (00:28:20) Why Mechanics Wear Gloves (00:30:42) Mechanics and Chemicals (00:31:44) Mechanics' Pay (00:31:59) Skill Levels in Auto Repair (00:32:06) Wage Misconceptions (00:33:29) Honesty in the Trade (00:35:09) Uniforms and Image (00:36:39) Charging for Diagnostics (00:39:44) Comparing Auto Repair to Other Professions (00:42:12) What Mechanics Do (00:43:36) Hourly Rates and Costs (00:45:58) How do mechanics get paid? (00:47:26) Flat rate pay explained (00:47:37) Charging for diagnostics (00:52:36) The demand for mechanics (00:54:41) Passion for automotive work (00:57:00) Certifications and training (00:59:04) Handling car emergencies (01:00:39) Dealing with car recalls (01:01:29) What to do if a car is stolen (01:02:03) Carbon Monoxide Concerns (01:03:13) What to Do If Your Car Is Hit While Parked (01:04:24) Insurance Company Guidance (01:04:40) Reacting to Answers and Feedback (01:05:07)
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/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Discover Nissens' innovative electric components for new energy vehicles, designed to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Jeff Hansen, President of North America at Nissens, also discusses their recent strategic partnership with Standard Motor Products, which broadens their global reach and expands their product portfolio. Matt Fanslow, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN, Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Podcast Nissens: https://nissens.com/ Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Introduction to the AAPEX 2024 (00:00:00) Importance of Aftermarket Products (00:01:29) Electrification in Automotive Components (00:02:39) Improving Emissions with Water Pumps (00:03:07) Future of Automotive Aftermarket (00:04:18) Collaboration with Standard Motor Products (00:09:31) Nissan's Historical Background (00:10:38) New Energy Vehicle Technology (00:11:09)
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network 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 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/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
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