Chris Craig on Creating Positive Automotive Work Environments Even At A Dealership

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The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
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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.

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Are You Hiring or Just Filling a Position? The Truth About Automotive Recruitment [THA 410]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching, and Today's Class Partnering with a recruiter isn’t just about filling a position—it’s about building a team that drives your business forward. In this episode, Kelly Cavanaugh, VP of Recruiting at Promotive, Brian Burris, Account Manager at Promotive, and Matt Fanslow, Shop Manager and Diagnostician at Riverside Automotive, share expert insights on attracting and retaining top talent in the automotive industry. Gain valuable perspectives from both a recruitment company and the shop level, offering a well-rounded view on hiring strategies, retention, and building successful teams. Dive into critical topics shaping the industry, including: Recruiting Strategies to attract top talent Retention Techniques to keep employees engaged Overcoming Ghosting in today’s hiring landscape Resume Building tips for technicians Cultural Fit and why it matters in building strong teams
Kelly Cavanaugh, VP of Recruiting, Promotive Brian Burris, Account Manager, Promotive Matt Fanslow, lead diagnostician and shop manager, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN. Matt’s previous episodes HERE Matt Fanslow Podcast: Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode 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. Challenges in Hiring (00:02:56) Cultural Fit in Interviews (00:03:49) Pre-Screened Interview Questions (00:04:55) Working Interviews (00:05:52) Confidentiality in Job Searches (00:06:37) Reasons for Leaving Jobs (00:07:02) Culture and Career Opportunities (00:08:11) Balancing Work and Training (00:08:34) Investment in Training (00:09:11) Candidate Profiles and Training Willingness (00:12:56) Resume Building Assistance (00:17:09) Candidate Preparation for Interviews (00:18:34) Curious vs. Serious Job Seekers (00:19:39) Ghosting Phenomenon in Recruitment (00:20:47) Communication with Candidates (00:21:31) Understanding Candidate Excuses (00:23:19) Importance of Recruiters for Shop Owners (00:26:09) Delegating Recruitment Tasks (00:32:39) Cultural Shift in Recruitment Practices (00:34:17) Importance of Job Satisfaction (00:36:01) Defining Job Expectations (00:36:34) Qualifying Candidates Effectively (00:36:57) Delegating Hiring Responsibilities (00:37:28)
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/ Thanks to our Partner, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching Proven Auto Shop Coaching with Results. Over 61 Million in ROI with an Average ROI of 9x. Find Coach Chris Cotton at AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching on the Web at https://autoshopcoaching.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.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
Revolutionizing the Automotive Industry With Leadership And Performance #podcast
By Changing The Industry

Revolutionizing the Automotive Industry With Leadership And Performance #podcast
What It Means to Be the Best Shop in Town [E193] - 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.
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
**Podcast Episode Summary: The Weekly Blitz with Coach Chris Cotton**
In this engaging episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton, a renowned auto repair business coach, delves into the essential elements that contribute to becoming the premier auto repair shop in your community. Coach Cotton begins by emphasizing the significance of establishing a culture of accountability within the workplace. He explains that when each team member takes responsibility for their actions and outcomes, it creates a foundation for success and continuous improvement.
Furthermore, Coach Cotton discusses the importance of fostering teamwork among employees. He suggests that a collaborative environment not only enhances efficiency and productivity but also boosts morale and job satisfaction. By encouraging open communication and mutual support, team members are more likely to work together towards common goals, ultimately benefiting the business as a whole.
Delivering an exceptional customer experience is another key focus of the episode. Coach Cotton points out that while having the latest tools and offering competitive prices are important, they are not the sole determinants of success. Instead, he argues that true excellence is achieved when every employee is committed to maintaining high standards and consistently exceeding customer expectations. This dedication to quality service helps build a strong reputation and encourages repeat business.
Coach Cotton also highlights the critical role of leadership in cultivating a positive and productive workplace culture. Effective leaders set the tone for the organization, modeling the behaviors and attitudes they wish to see in their team. By providing clear direction, support, and recognition, leaders can inspire their employees to strive for excellence in every aspect of their work.
Finally, Coach Cotton underscores the importance of building trust and loyalty with customers. He explains that every interaction with a customer is an opportunity to reinforce their confidence in the business. By consistently delivering on promises and addressing any concerns promptly and professionally, auto repair shops can establish long-lasting relationships with their clients, ensuring sustained success in a competitive market.

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:18)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on supercharging auto repair businesses.
Podcast Recommendations (00:01:23)
Chris highlights other podcasts on the aftermarket radio network worth checking out.
Inspiration from Previous Episode (00:02:38)
Chris discusses insights gained from a previous episode with Cecil Bullard about being the best shop.
Creating a Culture of Accountability (00:03:56)
The importance of fostering accountability among employees to achieve the goal of being the best shop.
Defining the Best Shop (00:04:54)
Being the best shop is a commitment reflected in every operational aspect, not just tools or prices.
Employee Engagement and Culture (00:06:02)
The significance of a positive culture where employees thrive and contribute to customer experience.
The Role of Accountability (00:07:20)
Accountability is essential; employees must hold themselves to high standards for the shop's reputation.
Steps to Accountability (00:08:25)
Chris outlines practical steps for employees to demonstrate accountability in their roles.
Building a Standard of Excellence (00:09:31)
Establishing a standard of excellence leads to a desirable workplace and loyal customers.
Legacy of Excellence (00:10:29)
Being the best shop is about building a legacy and creating growth opportunities for employees.
Closing Remarks (00:11:33)
Chris thanks listeners and emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset in the auto repair business.

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
Are You Your Own Biggest Obstacle to Succeeding in the Auto Repair Business? [E192] - 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.
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, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching delivers an inspiring message aimed at empowering auto repair shop owners to break through self-imposed barriers and unlock their full potential as effective business leaders. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the critical importance of cultivating a positive mindset, maintaining accountability, and taking bold, decisive actions to achieve one's dreams within the auto repair industry. Chris underscores the notion that the most significant obstacles shop owners face are often internal rather than external, suggesting that self-doubt and fear can hinder progress more than any market condition or competition.

To combat these internal challenges, Chris advocates for the transformative power of coaching, which can provide fresh perspectives and a structured framework for accountability. He believes that having a coach can help shop owners see their businesses from a new angle, identify areas for improvement, and stay committed to their goals. This external support can be crucial in helping them navigate the complexities of running a successful auto repair shop.

The episode is sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, highlighting the essential role that tailored marketing strategies play in supporting the growth and success of auto repair shops. By leveraging targeted marketing efforts, shop owners can effectively reach their desired audience, enhance their brand visibility, and ultimately drive more business. The sponsorship underscores the synergy between effective coaching and strategic marketing, both of which are vital components in the journey toward achieving sustained success in the auto repair industry.
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:20)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the episode and its focus on empowering auto repair shop owners.
Sponsorship Acknowledgment (00:01:21)
Chris thanks Shop Marketing Pros for their support and highlights their unique marketing strategies.
Unlocking Your Potential (00:02:24)
Discussion on the importance of getting out of your own way to unlock personal and business potential.
Identifying Internal Barriers (00:03:30)
Chris emphasizes that the biggest obstacles are often self-imposed rather than external challenges.
Dream Big and Act Boldly (00:04:33)
Encourages listeners to let their dreams lead instead of being hindered by fear and doubt.
The Role of Coaching (00:05:50)
Explains how coaching provides perspectives and accountability to help overcome self-imposed barriers.
Mindset Reset (00:06:52)
Coaches help identify and reframe self-limiting beliefs to approach problems with confidence.
Defining Success (00:07:59)
Coaches assist in clarifying what success looks like beyond just financial metrics.
Actionable Strategies (00:08:59)
Discusses the importance of breaking down big goals into manageable steps for clarity.
Accountability in Coaching (00:09:59)
Stresses the need for accountability to prevent falling back into old habits.
Visualizing Your Dream Shop (00:10:13)
Encourages listeners to vividly imagine their dream shop and life to create a plan.
Taking Bold Action (00:10:13)
Calls for committing to one bold step today to move closer to the envisioned goals.
Finding Support (00:10:13)
Highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive peers, coaches, or mentors.
Conclusion and Motivation (00:11:13)
Chris motivates listeners to recognize their potential and take action towards their dreams.

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
The Real Horsepower Behind Automotive Influencers [THA 408]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching, and Today's Class Who are the innovative influencers of the automotive industry—the unsung heroes behind the tools and technology Technicians/Technology Specialists rely on every day? "Most of the industry doesn't realize that a large portion of technology used every single day came from a very small group of people that nobody knows." "They're not the ones you see online. They're not the ones that have Instagram or TikTok or anything like that. They'd rather figure the car out or how something works." Isaac Rodell, Auto Rescue Tools and Computers Matt Fanslow, lead diagnostician and shop manager, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN. Matt’s previous episodes HERE Matt Fanslow Podcast: Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Tanner Brandt, Autodiag Clinic. Tanner’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Advanced Fundamentals of Krispy Kreme Waffles with Isaac Rodell Video: https://youtu.be/7v1PwWYHPFA?si=cA-Ldx794hfOALLz Industry Connectivity (00:02:21) Client Communication During Events (00:03:51) Impact of Competition (00:04:31) Industry Support After Disasters (00:05:56) Community Response to Hurricane Damage (00:08:12) Teaching Experiences at the Conference (00:09:50) Influencer Dynamics at Conferences (00:12:05) Influence Beyond Fame (00:15:01) Tools Shaping the Industry (00:15:51) Development of New Tools (00:19:09) Krispy Kreme Waffle Donuts (00:24:38) Cooking with Waffle Irons (00:31:08) Networking Importance (00:38:29) Staying Current in the Industry (00:43:37) Mobile Business Insights (00:44:12) Diagnosing a New Vehicle Issue (00:45:02) Access to Star Cases (00:46:54) Importance of Continuous Learning (00:49:26) Training Engagement Recommendations (00:50:32) Challenges in Attending Training (00:52:14) Understanding New Technologies (00:54:11) Curiosity and Commitment to Learning (00:56:49) After-Hours Learning (01:00:07) Legacy and Mentorship (01:00:26) Focus and Technology (01:05:08) Honor and Code in Professionalism (01:07:15)
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/ Thanks to our Partner, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching Proven Auto Shop Coaching with Results. Over 61 Million in ROI with an Average ROI of 9x. Find Coach Chris Cotton at AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching on the Web at https://autoshopcoaching.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.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