The Greatest Shift in Automotive Careers: Embracing Education and Technology [RR 991]
-
Available Subscriptions
-
Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?
-
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.
-
-
Similar Topics
-
By Alex
Automotive Batteries
What is your preferred brand of automotive batteries and why?
Who is the supplier of that brand to you?
What are the battery series that are available in that brand, and what are the warranties?
Who manufactures your choice of battery?
-
By bantar
I attended my first ever industry management conference. What a great experience. If you've never gone, I would encourage you to add it to your do-now bucket list. There was a lot of open and detailed sharing. For example, in a work session talking about bay efficiency analysis, they used real numbers from the audience. Monthly Overhead, Gross Profit Percentage, desired bottom line profit. It showed multiple paths to success that were immediately relatable.
None of the presentations were about perfection. As a matter of fact, most presenters shared information about how they did things stating that this may or may not apply to your situation. No one told you what to do, but rather offer tools for analyzing your own situation. None of the presenters were making sales pitches.
In other sessions, real shop owners share tips and techniques on a number of topics that we see here. Being a live event, these were more dynamic conversations.
I've returned from the conference with a renewed sense of urgency analyzing my numbers to see where we had success and where we need to improve. I do expect to make real changes, but don't yet know exactly what changes I'm going to make. Got to crunch some numbers first.
I signed up for the conference when it was first published, but sat on the CC screen for a while debating the value of this conference. Should I go, or should I stay? I reluctantly pushed the GO button. However, looking back, I should have enthusiastically smashed that GO button!
The next one is in Denver. I recommend that you consider attending.
A side benefit is that I got to meet Joe Marconi and in a session that we jointly attended, I overheard Joe say that he was mentored by Jerry Holcom. Later in the conference, I had the pleasure of talking with Jerry as well. In the many networking sessions, we met many different shop owners and had great conversations.
--brian
-
By carmcapriotto
In this episode, Carm Capriotto brings insights into the critical role of soft skills in the automotive industry. The discussion centers around the importance of communication, empathy, and active listening in fostering better customer relationships and enhancing team dynamics. Perfect for business owners, service advisors, and automotive professionals looking to elevate their operations. Prioritize the development of soft skills within your team, and watch as your business thrives in a more supportive and cohesive environment. Darrin Barney, President, Elite Worldwide, Barney Brother’s Off-Road and Repair, Grand Junction, CO. Darrin’s previous episodes HERE Rachel Spencer, Spencer’s Auto Repair, Krum Texas. Listen to her other episodes HERE Bill Snow, VP of Franchise Development and Operations, Rad Air. Listen to Bill’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes
Upcoming Events (00:02:35) Darrin shares details about the "Fly with the Eagles" training course and the "Ignite" event in Dallas. https://eliteworldwide.com/events/ Discussion on Soft Skills Gap (00:04:13) A gap in soft skills among students and the need for professional interaction training. Rachel on Communication (00:05:24) Rachel discusses various forms of communication and the importance of closing the expectation gap. Three-Second Rule (00:06:41) Darrin explains the "three-second rule" to improve listening and processing during conversations. Toastmasters and Public Speaking (00:09:23) Carm shares insights about Toastmasters and its benefits for improving communication skills. https://rrtm.toastmastersclubs.org/directions.html Empathy as a Soft Skill (00:10:07) Rachel defines empathy and its importance in effective communication and team dynamics. Sympathy vs. Empathy (00:11:25) Darrin contrasts sympathy and empathy, highlighting the need for understanding in service roles. Teaching Empathy (00:12:25) Rachel discusses modeling empathy for employees and children, emphasizing active listening. Fix My Ride Program (00:13:11) Rachel shares a program that fosters empathy by helping those unable to fix their cars. Empathy in Leadership (00:15:05) Bill discusses the importance of empathy in decision-making and its effects on team dynamics. Eye Contact as a Soft Skill (00:15:50) Darrin underscores the significance of maintaining eye contact in communication, especially in the digital age. The Uncomfortable Nature of Eye Contact (00:18:46) Discussion on the discomfort associated with maintaining eye contact in conversations. Generational Communication Differences (00:19:11) Exploration of how younger generations prefer texting over direct communication. Getting Comfortable with Discomfort (00:19:45) Encouragement to embrace discomfort for personal growth and better communication. Managing Phone Distractions (00:22:50) Discussion on the necessity of managing phone usage and distractions in educational settings. Understanding Personality Traits (00:25:05) Exploration of using DISC assessments to understand team members' communication styles. Communication Styles and Team Dynamics (00:29:40) Discussion on addressing communication deficiencies within teams through assessments. Empathy in Team Dynamics (00:30:44) Discussion on feeling disconnected within a team and the importance of being human and empathetic. Learning Conflict Resolution (00:33:35) Exploring how empathy and listening skills aid in resolving conflicts with customers. Implementing Soft Skills in Huddles (00:34:42) The suggestion to integrate soft skills discussions into regular team meetings for continuous learning. Coin System for Team Morale (00:36:10) Introducing a coin system to encourage team recognition and boost morale through peer acknowledgment. Setting an Example as Leaders (00:37:01) The importance of managers modeling empathy and positive behavior for their teams. Teaching Problem-Solving Skills (00:38:06) Emphasizing the need for employees to think critically and develop problem-solving skills. The Value of 'Think Time' (00:40:01) Discussing the significance of setting aside time for reflection and planning to enhance business growth. Empowering Employees (00:43:39) Encouraging leaders to empower their teams to make decisions and learn from mistakes.
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
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
-
By Changing The Industry
Navigating Shop Management Systems #podcast #autorepairbusiness #podcastclips #autorepairowner
-
By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network This episode explores the distinctions between training and education, comparing the educational systems in the U.S. and Europe and how the automotive industry can support academic institutions. Tanner Brandt emphasizes the value of vocational training and soft skills, while Michael Ingvardsen highlights the advantages of industry collaboration and the need for engaging training resources. Tanner and Michael advocate for a cultural shift in automotive education, calling for long-term industry partnerships and a focus on continuous learning to better equip future technicians. Michael Ingvardsen, Global Technical Training Manager, Nissens Automotive Tanner Brandt, Autodiag Clinic. Tanner’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes
Discussion on Education vs. Training (00:03:03) Carm emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between training and education in the automotive field. Tanner's Perspective on Training (00:03:53) Tanner discusses the differences between short-term training and long-term educational processes. Michael on European Training Challenges (00:04:48) Michael explains the cultural differences in training attendance between Europe and the U.S. Vacation in Denmark (00:06:26) Carm and Tanner discuss the generous vacation policies in Denmark compared to the U.S. High School Vocational Programs (00:07:25) Tanner shares insights about vocational education systems like BOCES in New York. Shop Owners and Vocational Programs (00:08:19) Carm highlights the need for shop owners to engage with vocational education centers. Challenges in Automotive Education (00:09:12) Tanner addresses misconceptions regarding the readiness of students entering the automotive workforce. Michael's Educational Experience in Denmark (00:10:56) Michael outlines the differences in educational approaches and student opportunities in Denmark. Cost of Education in Denmark (00:13:10) Carm and Michael discuss the free education system in Denmark and its implications. High School Structure in Denmark (00:14:26) Michael explains the schooling structure, including high school and vocational training paths. Career Path in Automotive for Danish Students (00:15:27) Michael describes the four-year training program for students pursuing automotive careers in Denmark. Challenges in Automotive Education (00:17:58) Discussion on why students lack education post-high school and the need for vocational training. Internships and Apprenticeships (00:21:42) Exploration of internships as a result of vocational training and the potential for hands-on experience. Industry Support for Education (00:22:07) Discussion on how companies, like Nissen's, support educational institutions continuously rather than temporarily. Transactional Nature of U.S. Education (00:23:32) Critique of the transactional approach in U.S. automotive education versus long-term support seen in other countries. Instructor Education and Training (00:24:20) Concerns about how current instructors in the U.S. are educated and the validity of their training sources. Curriculum Changes in Colleges (00:27:36) Changes at a college level to improve student outcomes by replacing traditional subjects with lab-focused learning. Differences Between AAS and AOS Degrees (00:29:49) Comparison of Associates of Applied Science and Associates in Occupational Science degrees and their implications for students. Soft Skills in Education (00:32:58) Discussion on the lack of soft skills training in automotive education and its importance for student success. Work-Life Balance Discussion (00:36:33) Exploration of communication skills and generational changes impacting work-life balance in the automotive industry. Personal Reflection on Travel (00:37:01) Michael shares his journey from extensive travel to prioritizing family time and achieving better work-life balance. Content Development in Training (00:38:46) Tanner discusses his experience in content development for training and differences in presentation styles. Interactive Learning Approaches (00:40:46) The need for interactive and entertaining training presentations to engage learners effectively. Learning Management Systems (00:42:01) Discussion on the advantages of established learning management systems in European training compared to the U.S. Corporate Training Consistency (00:43:26) Michael highlights the importance of maintaining consistent training materials across all trainers in his organization. Need for Communication Courses (00:45:05) Tanner advocates for incorporating communication courses in automotive education to improve interpersonal skills. Real-World Communication Training (00:46:56) Tanner shares insights on practical communication training methods that encourage interaction with strangers. Final Thoughts from Michael (00:48:03) Michael encourages ongoing training and education for both students and professionals in the automotive industry. Tanner's Call to Action (00:49:06) Tanner urges educational institutions and companies to collaborate and improve automotive training programs.
Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2024. Mark your calendar now … November 5th-7th, 2024. AAPEX - Now more than ever. And don’t miss the next free AAPEX webinar. Register now at http://AAPEXSHOW.COM/WEBINAR 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
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
-
-
-
Our Sponsors
Recommended Posts
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 accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now