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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 partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
This week on Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA with Paar Melis and Associates, breaks down the latest market news and legislative updates that directly impact auto repair shop owners. From the return of the BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) report to evolving tax policy discussions and IRS processing delays, Hunt provides a no-nonsense analysis of what’s happening and how it could affect your business.
In This Episode, You'll Learn:
✔️ The BOI Report is back—what it is, why it matters, and the March 21st deadline you can’t ignore.
✔️ Trump’s tax proposals—what’s being discussed, what’s likely to pass, and what it means for your shop and your customers.
✔️ IRS struggles & refund delays—why tax processing is slower than ever and what to expect if you’re waiting on an Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) refund.
✔️ Interest rates & the economy—why rates aren’t moving much (yet), and what this means for your financial strategy in 2025.
✔️ The state of small businesses & consumer spending—how last year’s trends impact this year’s outlook, and why customer financial health affects your shop’s profitability.
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]
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
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By Joe Marconi
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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
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.
I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors.
Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great.
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.
I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors.
Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great.
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 of "The Weekly Blitz," host Coach Chris Cotton delves into the critical topic of enhancing customer experience within the auto repair industry by effectively merging cutting-edge technology with personalized service touches. Drawing from his own life, Chris shares vivid personal anecdotes that illustrate the profound impact of customer service on brand perception and loyalty.
He begins by recounting his contrasting experiences with two tech giants, Apple and Lenovo. Through these stories, Chris highlights how Apple's commitment to seamless, customer-centric service left a lasting positive impression, whereas Lenovo's lackluster support fell short of expectations. These anecdotes serve as powerful examples of how excellent customer service can significantly influence customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Chris also shares his positive interactions with Starlink, the satellite internet service provider. He emphasizes how Starlink's proactive communication and dedication to resolving issues made him feel valued as a customer. This experience underscores the importance of making customers feel appreciated and respected, which can transform a one-time transaction into a long-term relationship.
Introducing the concept of "relationship coins," Chris encourages auto repair shops to view customer interactions as opportunities to invest in building strong, lasting relationships. He explains that each positive interaction adds to a metaphorical bank of goodwill, which can pay dividends in terms of customer loyalty and repeat business.
Sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, the episode underscores the necessity of providing exceptional service to foster customer loyalty and drive business growth. Chris argues that in an industry where trust and reliability are paramount, auto repair shops must prioritize customer experience by integrating technology that enhances service efficiency while maintaining the personal touch that makes customers feel valued and understood.
Throughout the episode, Chris Cotton passionately advocates for a balanced approach that leverages technology to streamline operations and improve service delivery, while also emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human connection in creating memorable customer experiences. By doing so, auto repair shops can not only meet but exceed customer expectations, ultimately leading to sustained business success.
Introduction to Supercharging (00:00:09)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on enhancing auto repair business through innovative insights.
Guest Introduction and Technology Discussion (00:01:12)
Chris introduces Craig O'Neill and discusses the impact of technology on customer experience in the auto repair industry.
Personal Customer Experience Anecdote (00:02:21)
Chris shares a personal story about his customer experience with laptop purchases and the importance of customer service.
Switching to Apple Products (00:05:49)
After poor service from Lenovo, Chris decides to purchase a MacBook, highlighting the positive experience he had.
Apple's Exceptional Customer Service (00:08:00)
Chris details his satisfaction with Apple's customer service, leading to his continued investment in their products.
Starlink Customer Experience (00:09:14)
Chris recounts his positive interaction with Starlink customer service while setting up internet for travel.
Importance of Merging Technology and Personal Touch (00:12:15)
Chris emphasizes the need for auto repair shops to blend technology with personal service to enhance customer experiences.
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
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
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
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.
I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors.
Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great.
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.
I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors.
Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great.
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 episode 202 of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton takes a deep dive into the financial performance of auto repair shops, offering listeners a comprehensive analysis based on insights from the January edition of Ratchet & Wrench magazine. Throughout the episode, Coach Chris emphasizes the critical importance of tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as annual revenue, gross profit margins, and net profit margins. These metrics are essential for shop owners who aim to understand and enhance their business's financial health.
Coach Chris shares compelling survey statistics that reveal significant revenue growth within the auto repair industry over the past 15 years. This growth underscores the dynamic nature of the industry and the opportunities available for shop owners who are proactive in managing their finances. He highlights the necessity for shop owners to focus on improving their financial metrics, as doing so can lead to increased profitability and long-term success.
In addition to discussing financial performance, the episode also promotes Shop Marketing Pros, a specialized marketing company dedicated to serving auto repair shops. Shop Marketing Pros offers tailored marketing solutions designed to help shop owners attract more customers and build a strong brand presence in their local markets.
Listeners of this episode will gain valuable insights into the financial aspects of running an auto repair shop and learn strategies to boost their business's performance. Coach Chris's expert advice, combined with the resources provided by Shop Marketing Pros, equips shop owners with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive industry.
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:08)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its purpose to supercharge auto repair businesses.
Overview of Ratchet & Wrench Magazine (00:01:04)
Discussion on insights from the January edition of Ratchet & Wrench magazine regarding shop performance.
15-Year Industry Comparison (00:02:15)
Chris highlights changes in annual revenue and profit margins in the auto repair industry over 15 years.
Importance of Tracking KPIs (00:03:15)
Emphasis on the significance of key performance indicators for making informed financial decisions.
KPI Awareness Among Shop Owners (00:04:20)
Chris shares his experience teaching shop owners about KPIs, revealing a lack of awareness.
Current Revenue Statistics (00:05:20)
Over 50% of surveyed shops now report annual revenues exceeding $1 million, a significant increase from 15 years ago.
Gross Profit Margin Insights (00:06:18)
Discussion on gross profit margins, with over 50% of shops reporting margins above 50%.
Revenue Breakdown of Surveyed Shops (00:07:17)
Detailed statistics on revenue ranges among surveyed shops, highlighting growth trends.
Industry Consolidation Factors (00:09:35)
Analysis of industry consolidation and growth potential as more shops exceed $25 million in revenue.
Gross Profit Margin Categories (00:10:49)
Breakdown of gross profit margins among surveyed shops, with insights on profitability levels.
Net Profit Margin Overview (00:12:59)
Discussion on net profit margins, noting a concerning percentage of shops not generating profit.
Encouragement for Improvement (00:14:07)
Chris encourages shop owners to make small tweaks for improved profitability and performance.
Tracking and Measuring KPIs (00:16:12)
Final thoughts on the importance of tracking KPIs and using data to drive business improvements.
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 friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal’s Certified
Network of shops are trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at
RepairPal.com/shops
Are you ready to convert clients to members? App fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your own customer loyalty app. Visit Appfueled.com
Are your customers getting the right first impression of your shop? In this episode, Brian and Kim Walker explore how to make every touchpoint count, from your website and Google Business Profile to your waiting area and phone calls.
With personal stories and practical tips, they’ll guide you through the customer journey, sharing ways to improve everything from cleanliness to communication. You’ll even hear about Kim’s checklist for first impressions and why small details—like a fresh-smelling lobby or updated photos—make a big impact.
Get ready to see your shop through fresh eyes and take steps to leave a lasting impression. Tune in now!
Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal will help you
grow your auto business and you can learn more at RepairPal.com/shops.
Are you ready to convert clients to members? App fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your own customer loyalty app. Visit Appfueled.com
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
https://www.autoops.com/ - Online Scheduling for Auto Shops
https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-131-branding-your-shop-as-a-concierge-auto-repair-shop/ - Branding Your Shop As A Concierge Auto Repair Shop
https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-108-part-4-a-service-advisors-take-on-customer-retention-with-michael-doherty/ - Part 4 – A Service Advisor’s Take on Customer Retention with Michael Doherty
https://remarkable.com/ - Remarkable notebook
Show Notes with Time Stamps
Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:01) The podcast episode begins with an introduction to the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Welcome and Topic Introduction (00:00:10) Brian Walker welcomes listeners and introduces the topic of making great first impressions in auto repair. Secret Shopper Concept (00:01:03) Kim discusses the idea of offering secret shopper services to evaluate first impressions in auto repair shops. Frog in Boiling Water Analogy (00:01:20) Brian uses an analogy about a frog in boiling water to illustrate how business owners can overlook issues. Personal Experience with Shop Cleanliness (00:02:26) Kim shares a personal story about noticing cleanliness issues in her shop after sitting on the floor. Origin of the Episode's Topic (00:03:13) Kim explains that the episode's topic originated from a class she taught about hosting events in auto repair shops. Creating a First Impression Checklist (00:04:08) Kim mentions her intention to create a first impression checklist based on customer journey insights. Importance of Online Presence (00:04:51) Discussion shifts to how potential customers first experience a business online, including websites and Google profiles. The Grunt Test (00:06:39) Brian explains the "grunt test," where a stranger should easily understand what a website is about. Evaluating Website Impressions (00:08:04) Kim emphasizes the importance of assessing what feelings a website evokes in potential clients. Social Media's Role in First Impressions (00:10:12) The conversation covers how social media contributes to first impressions and customer perceptions. Content Strategy and Audience Alignment (00:12:08) Brian shares a client's unconventional marketing strategy and the importance of aligning content with audience expectations. Google Business Profile Importance (00:12:59) Kim highlights the significance of maintaining an accurate and complete Google Business Profile for attracting customers. Customer Experience in a Hurry (00:14:01) Kim discusses how potential customers often search for auto repair services quickly, emphasizing the need for accurate information. Improving Waiting Area Appearance (00:15:02) Discusses the importance of updating photos of the waiting area to enhance customer impressions. The Importance of Phone Etiquette (00:15:38) Emphasizes listening to phone calls to ensure service advisors are friendly and professional. First Impressions Over the Phone (00:16:38) Highlights how the tone and manner of answering calls can significantly impact first impressions. Customer Experience During Calls (00:17:18) Explores the importance of a welcoming greeting and attentive service during phone interactions. Listening to Recorded Calls (00:19:22) Encourages shop owners to review recorded calls to improve customer service quality. Customer Experience in Shops (00:21:36) Discusses a personal anecdote about poor customer service and its impact on first impressions. Evaluating Online Scheduling Experience (00:24:26) Stresses the importance of user-friendly online scheduling systems for customer satisfaction. Drive-By Assessment of Shop Appearance (00:26:23) Encourages shop owners to evaluate their business from a customer's perspective for first impressions. Parking Lot and Vehicle Presentation (00:27:27) Discusses the significance of a tidy parking lot and appropriate vehicles for attracting customers. Signage and Branding Consistency (00:29:03) Highlights the importance of maintaining updated and clear signage to reflect the brand accurately. The Story of the Old Shop (00:29:52) Brian shares a humorous anecdote about visiting an old shop and its rundown appearance. The Importance of Cleanliness (00:30:46) Discussion about how exterior cleanliness impacts first impressions in auto repair shops. Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere (00:31:27) Kim emphasizes the significance of the waiting area’s atmosphere and sensory experiences for customers. Sensory Experiences Matter (00:31:47) Exploration of how smell and touch affect customers' perceptions in an auto repair shop. Comparing Experiences (00:34:29) Kim discusses how customers compare their experiences to other businesses like Chick-fil-A. Details Matter (00:35:28) Highlighting the importance of small details in creating a positive customer experience. Creating a Family-Friendly Environment (00:36:55) Discussion on accommodating families and making kids feel welcome in the shop. Comfort in the Waiting Area (00:38:39) Brian stresses the need for comfortable seating and a welcoming environment for customers. Responsibility for Cleanliness (00:39:23) Discussion on who is responsible for maintaining cleanliness in the shop. Bathroom Cleanliness (00:40:20) A personal story about the poor state of a customer-facing bathroom and its impact. Thoughtful Amenities (00:41:24) Kim talks about providing thoughtful amenities for female customers in the bathroom. Impression of Cleanliness (00:43:19) Discussion on the importance of maintaining high standards of cleanliness in customer-facing areas. Shop Area Cleanliness (00:44:11) Importance of maintaining a bright, clean, and organized shop environment for clients and staff. Efficient Shop Layout (00:45:02) Discusses the necessity of an efficient layout to enhance workflow and client experience. Client Interaction (00:46:05) Emphasizes tailoring conversations with clients based on their vehicle ownership goals. Permission for Inspections (00:47:58) Importance of asking for permission to perform inspections to enhance client trust and experience. Client Follow-Up (00:48:59) Discusses the significance of following up with clients post-service to ensure satisfaction. Team Appearance (00:49:48) Highlights how professional attire of staff can impact first impressions on clients. Importance of First Impressions (00:50:45) Stresses that consistent positive impressions lead to long-term client relationships and referrals. Final Thoughts and Checklist (00:50:46) Introduction of a PDF checklist for staff to enhance awareness of shop cleanliness and organization.
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
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