Quantcast
Jump to content


Put 2020 Behind you, Build a strong shop for 2021

Joe Marconi
 Share

Recommended Posts

JimO Collaborator

JimO

Posted
Posted

Joe is correct that Covid-19 has affected everyone to some degree. Our gas volume is still off by 30-40% which is both a concern and hardship but repairs have been good so I feel very fortunate. There are a handful of varied businesses that have prospered during Covid such us drug chains, Urgent Care facilities, testing labs etc. Sadly there are so many businesses such as restaurants, movie theaters, hair/nail salons, catering halls, fitness centers, hotels/motels ..... that have closed up permanently. A shopping mall near me has a severe failure rate with 40-50% of the stores shuttered for good. A Hilton in my backyard closed permanently. Huge corporate office buildings in my area still lay dormant with all employees working from home. The overall business climate is still very poor in our are and concerns me.

To answer Joe’s question as to what lessons I have learned - Adapt to change as quick as possible, do not financially over extend yourself, realize and react to untapped opportunities, increase and improve communication with customers and employees and be thankful to be able to come to work every morning because too many people are unable to do that.

  • Like 3
JimO Collaborator

JimO

Posted
Posted
On 1/11/2021 at 9:58 PM, xrac said:

And it keeps on affecting. One of my techs and yours truly have tested positive.  I have the shop with no one to enter the building except people that I have no symptoms and are waiting on test results. Trying to clear out cars that are in the shop so people don't go days or weeks without them.  Maybe not perfect but I think it will be effective.   So far it only feels like a mild head cold.

As if getting Covid is not enough you also have to try your best to finish all of the “in progress” jobs and contend with being down for an unknown amount of time. Running a small business has it’s rewards but I bet right now you wish you could just go home and get paid for hibernating under the covers like the majority of the population has done. I wish you and your tech a quick recovery.

JimO Collaborator

JimO

Posted
Posted

13 hours ago, Joe Marconi said:

I know what you mean, and I get it.  Shop owners, techs and other auto-related employees in our industry have always been on the front lines. We come to work in the middle of a snow storm, go to work when we feel sick, and try to drum up work when it seems impossible during an economic downturn. We work in conditions that makes us cold in the winter and hot in the summer. For once, it would be nice to hide and get paid for it.  It's just not us. But, I get it.

Joe managed to capture an accurate description of our lives in a few sentences. I bet everyone read his words and thought “Wow...that’s me....that’s my life”. Given that should we really wonder why our trade struggles to find qualified employees? 

  • Like 1

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Available Subscriptions

    See all Subscription Plans

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

    • Joe Marconi
      The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart
      By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
         0 comments
      It 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.

  • Similar Topics

    • carmcapriotto
      Are You Prepared for the Unexpected Loss of a Loved One? [E198] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
      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.
      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 opens up about his deeply personal journey with grief following the passing of his beloved wife Kimberly's mother on New Year's Eve. With heartfelt sincerity, he delves into the complex and often overwhelming stages of grief, sharing insights and reflections from his own experience. Chris emphasizes the crucial importance of being prepared for the inevitable reality of loss, introducing listeners to the "red envelope yellow envelope" concept. This thoughtful approach involves meticulously documenting essential information and end-of-life plans, ensuring that loved ones are not left in the dark during times of emotional turmoil.


      Chris underscores the necessity of having those often uncomfortable yet vital conversations about end-of-life wishes and preparations. By addressing these topics head-on, individuals can significantly ease the burden on their families and friends, allowing them to focus on healing and remembrance rather than logistical challenges. Throughout the episode, Chris also touches on the emotional and spiritual dimensions of grief, offering guidance and support to those navigating similar paths.
      He encourages listeners to prioritize self-care and preparedness, not only in their personal lives but also within their business endeavors. By fostering a mindset of readiness and resilience, individuals can better cope with the unpredictable nature of life and loss. Through his candid storytelling and practical advice, Coach Chris Cotton provides a compassionate and empowering message, reminding us all of the strength found in vulnerability and the peace that comes from being prepared.


      Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)
      Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on auto repair business insights.
      Happy New Year Message (00:01:13)
      Chris shares a New Year greeting and hints at personal challenges faced recently.
      Discussion of Loss (00:02:29)
      Chris reflects on the passing of Kimberly's mother and the impact on their family.
      Red Envelope Yellow Envelope Concept (00:03:46)
      Importance of planning for unexpected events is emphasized through personal experiences.
      The Emotional Toll of Grief (00:06:50)
      Chris describes the emotional reactions and support needed during grief.
      Organizing Affairs for Loved Ones (00:08:18)
      Advice on preparing personal and business affairs to ease burdens on family.
      The Stages of Grief (00:10:27)
      Chris outlines the stages of grief observed in Kimberly's reactions to loss.
      Denial and Anger Stages (00:11:38)
      Discussion of denial and anger stages in the grieving process.
      Bargaining Stage of Grief (00:13:08)
      Explains how bargaining manifests in thoughts of regret and "what if" scenarios.
      Depression and Acceptance Stages (00:15:12)
      Chris describes the transition between depression and acceptance in the grieving process.
      Call to Action for Planning (00:16:28)
      Encouragement to have plans in place for end-of-life situations to support loved ones.
      Importance of Life Stories (00:17:47)
      Chris stresses the need to document loved ones' life stories before it's too late.
      Final Thoughts on Grief and Readiness (00:19:00)
      Reflection on being spiritually and emotionally prepared for life's uncertainties.


      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
    • carmcapriotto
      Podcast Hosts Don't Have It All Figured Out [E135] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
      By carmcapriotto
      Podcasting isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about sharing the journey. In this episode, we tackle the hard truth: Podcast hosts don’t have it all figured out. From the insecurities of giving advice to the challenges of staying authentic, we explore what it really means to put yourself out there as a host.
      You’ll discover how to sift through advice, find what works for you, and embrace the imperfect process of learning and leading. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have it all together, this episode will remind you—you’re not alone.
      Listen in for an honest discussion about navigating the auto repair industry, embracing authenticity, and growing through the challenges of imperfection!
      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
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-118-doing-video-every-day-for-a-month/ - Episode 118 VEDA
      https://agencyanalytics.com/blog/how-profit-first-helped-this-agency-scale - Profit First Was the Key to Our Agency’s Financial Transformation
      https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-125-its-ok-to-dream-big-stop-playing-small/ - It’s OK to Dream Big (Stop Playing Small)
      Show Notes with Timestamps
      Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)  Brian introduces the podcast and sets the theme about podcast hosts not having all the answers. Inspiration from Mike Allen's Post (00:00:10)  Discussion on how Mike Allen's humorous post sparked Brian's reflections on podcasting and advice-giving. Brian's Insecurities as a Host (00:01:15)  Brian shares his personal insecurities regarding his role as a podcast host and influencer. Critique of Influencers (00:02:26)  Brian expresses frustration with influencers who claim to have life figured out, relating it to his experiences. Sharing Personal Experiences (00:03:33)  Emphasis on the importance of sharing personal learning experiences rather than presenting oneself as an expert. Struggles with Advice-Giving (00:04:36)  Brian discusses his ongoing struggles with the advice he shares in his podcasts and posts. Imposter Syndrome (00:05:37)  Brian reflects on feelings of imposter syndrome when sharing advice on managing expenses and business practices. Going Against Popular Opinion (00:06:46)  Brian talks about the challenges of discussing unpopular business opinions and the reactions he receives. Sponsor Promotion: RepairPal (00:08:54)  Brian promotes RepairPal and its benefits for auto repair shops seeking new customers. Sponsor Promotion: App Fueled (00:09:55)  Introduction of App Fueled and its services for building customer loyalty apps for auto repair businesses. Rewarding Success Stories (00:10:59)  Brian shares the rewarding experience of hearing success stories from listeners implementing his advice. Discernment in Advice-Giving (00:12:03)  Brian advises listeners to discern the credibility of advice from various influencers and podcasters. Conclusion and Reflection (00:13:10)  Brian wraps up the discussion, emphasizing the importance of honesty in sharing experiences and insights.
      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
    • Transmission Repair
      How Does Your Shop Compare To Others
      By Transmission Repair

      Premium Member Content 

      This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.

    • Changing The Industry
      A Business Wake Up Call #podcast #automotivebusiness #autorepairbusiness
      By Changing The Industry
      A Business Wake Up Call #podcast #automotivebusiness #autorepairbusiness
    • carmcapriotto
      Improve Call Handling Skills: The Power of AI and Continuous Learning [RR 1015]
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network David Boyd discusses the critical importance of call handling and customer communication, offering valuable insights on setting clear expectations and fostering a supportive training environment. Learn how modern technology can elevate customer service interactions, boost conversion rates, and drive sales growth. Plus, gain practical tips for introducing call analysis to your service advisors for measurable improvements. David Boyd, Inbound INC.  Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Institute Summit, February 6th-8th, 2025, in Amelia Island, Florida: https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/summit Call Handling Process (00:02:14) Continuous Education vs. Training (00:04:25) Understanding Customer Communication (00:05:38) Conversion Rates and Call Handling (00:07:42) Complacency in Communication (00:09:10) Sentiment Analysis (00:09:37) Predictive Indicators (00:11:16) Coaching Service Advisors (00:12:42) Using Transcripts for Review (00:14:33) Talk Time Metrics (00:15:51) The Importance of Asking for Sales (00:20:08) Encouraging Customer Engagement (00:20:27) Shifting Mindsets to 'Say Yes' (00:21:09) Client Advocate Concept (00:22:25) Utilizing Coaching and Training (00:24:08) Time Efficiency in Call Coaching (00:25:05) First Impressions Matter (00:28:16) Impact of Communication on Sales Growth (00:29:36) Digital Communication Platforms (00:31:02) Business Continuity Planning (00:32:39) Technology's Role in Customer Relationships (00:34:31) Understanding Call Handling Expectations (00:35:42) Emotional Overtones in Feedback (00:36:39) Creating Training Opportunities (00:36:56) Defining Success in Call Handling (00:37:32)
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2025. Mark your calendar now … November 4th-6th, 2025. AAPEX - Now more than ever. https://www.aapexshow.com/ 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: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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 X: 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


  •
    Joe Marconi

    Isn’t It Time We Rethink What a Master Level Technician Is?

    By Joe Marconi, in Automotive Industry,

    1 comment 641 views
    Joe Marconi

    Five Proven Tips to Improve Your Bottom Line

    By Joe Marconi, in Selling Automotive Repair,

    0 comments 626 views
    Joe Marconi

    Money Isn’t The Motivator We Think It Is

    By Joe Marconi, in Automotive Management,

    0 comments 415 views

  • Our Sponsors

Main Sections

More Sections

Discussion Forums

×
×
  • Create New...