Quantcast
Jump to content


Talking Numbers with Chris Cotton [E138] - Business By The Numbers


Recommended Posts

In this episode, Hunt Demarest, an experienced CPA specializing in the auto repair industry, sits down with Chris Cotton, a renowned auto repair shop coach and owner of Autofix Auto Shop Coaching. Together, they dive into the challenges and strategies of optimizing shop productivity and profitability.

They talk about:

  • The importance of labor hours per repair order (LHRO) and how it impacts a shop's profitability.
  • Why thorough vehicle inspections and accurate estimates are crucial for increasing average repair orders (ARO).
  • How modern shop management systems, help streamline operations and ensure healthy profit margins.
  • Chris Cotton's personal experience as a shop owner and coach, and how he uses his own shop as a "test case" to develop successful strategies.
  • Insights on whether and when to consider expanding your shop operations to multiple locations.

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:


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.

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.

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.

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

Link to comment
Share on other sites

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
  • Available Subscriptions

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest 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

    • 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


      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
    • By carmcapriotto
      Recorded at the 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO) Business Management and Lindertech Training Tradeshow, our panel discusses strategies for increasing gross profit, team harmony, and the significance of training the next generation of automotive professionals. By understanding and managing gross profit, embracing expert guidance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, shop owners can navigate the challenges of the industry and achieve long-term success. Murray Voth, RPM Training. Listen to Murray’s previous episodes HERE. [email protected] David Coelho, Village Auto Care, London, ON Nick Schonenberger, Kaufman’s Garage, Kitchener, ON Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO): https://www.aaro.ca/ Murray Voth's Coaching Impact (00:02:57) Nick discusses how Murray's coaching and app changed his approach to gross profit. Building Profit into Gross Profit (00:03:06) The importance of integrating net profit into gross profit for better financial management is emphasized. Understanding Gross Profit (00:05:33) Nick reflects on the realization that gross profit is essential for covering all business expenses. The Role of Mastermind Groups (00:07:29) Discussion on how belonging to mastermind groups can open shop owners' eyes to new possibilities. The Journey from Shop Owner to Business Owner (00:09:36) The fear and misconceptions that prevent shop owners from embracing their roles. Efficiency in a Two-Bay Shop (00:11:08) David shares how he improved efficiency and processes in his shop after facing challenges. The Harmony of Teamwork (00:14:20) The importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving high productivity is highlighted. Training and Developing Technicians (00:15:20) David explains how his team trains together, ensuring consistent processes and high performance. Balancing Growth and Team Well-being (00:16:06) The discussion concludes with thoughts on managing growth without overwhelming the existing team. Introduction and Improvement Ideas (00:16:16) Discussion on the need for better communication and vision in shop management. Reflecting on 2023 and Future Changes (00:18:01) Encouragement for shop owners to assess last year’s performance and consider necessary changes. Training and Team Development (00:19:05) Introducing impactful training methods accessible to all team members for continuous improvement. Understanding Gross Profit Metrics (00:22:10) Clarifying the difference between markup and gross margin in shop pricing strategies. Teaching and Inspiring Future Technicians (00:26:57) David discusses his role as an educator and the importance of attracting young talent to the trade. Building a Professional Image in the Industry (00:29:00) Emphasizing the need for a positive image of the automotive trade to attract new entrants. Flexibility in Shop Management (00:30:40) David reflects on the flexibility he has as a shop owner to balance teaching and managing effectively. Service Training Insights (00:33:24) Discussion on the importance of service training and the impact on student confidence in customer relationships.
      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 carmcapriotto
      Today, we’re diving into a crucial topic—your role in making your marketing partnership a true success. While hiring a marketing company takes a lot of work off your plate, it doesn’t mean you can be completely hands-off. In fact, your involvement is essential to ensure your marketing reaches its full potential.
      We’ll cover the key responsibilities you need to take on, from meeting with your marketing team to providing access and sharing important updates. We’ll also discuss how staying active in your community and delivering a great customer experience can make your marketing efforts even more effective.
      If you're ready to learn how to enhance your marketing partnership and see better results, this episode is for you. Let’s dive in!
      Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      https://autoshopcoaching.com/weekly-blitz-podcast-with-chris-cotton/ - The Weekly Blitz By Chris Cotton
      https://www.kenblanchardbooks.com/book/raving-fans/ - Raving Fans 


      Show Notes with Timestamps


      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
    • 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 of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton explores the metaphor of changing pastures to symbolize personal and professional growth. He addresses the common belief that "the grass is always greener on the other side" and emphasizes the importance of recognizing when change is necessary. Chris offers practical tips for self-assessment, investing in personal growth, eliminating negativity, staying committed to goals, and being patient with the process. Aimed at auto repair shop owners and professionals, the episode encourages taking control of one's circumstances for improvement. The episode is sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros.


      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
    • Fast Free Shipping on All Orders Over $50
    • By carmcapriotto
      Explore key leadership archetypes like the Motivator, the Builder, and Servant Leadership. Our panel shares the must-know strategies for effective communication, team building, and personal growth. Plus, they highlight the power of peer groups, continuous learning, and adapting your leadership style to different situations. This episode is perfect for shop owners, managers, and anyone in the automotive repair industry who’s ready to improve their leadership skills. Andrew Marcotte, American Pride Automotive, 5 locations, Virginia. Andrew’s previous episodes HERE Jon Kloosterman, Director of Operations, WestSide Service, Zeeland, MI. Jon’s previous episodes HERE David Askwith, Managing Director, Auto Stream Car Care, MD. David’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes

      Importance of Leadership (00:02:46) Andrew discusses how leadership impacts personal and professional spheres, emphasizing its ripple effect. Leadership Archetypes (00:03:05) Andrew introduces five main leadership archetypes: motivator, builder, accountability, example, and servant leadership. Learning Leadership (00:05:01) Carm stresses that leadership can be learned and encourages listeners to engage with uncomfortable concepts. Earning Leadership (00:06:03) Jon explains that leadership is earned through influence, not just given by title. Adapting Leadership Styles (00:06:56) Andrew discusses the importance of adapting leadership styles to individual team members for effective influence. Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation (00:09:01) The panel discusses the difference between external motivators and internal drives for employee engagement. Effective Motivation Strategies (00:10:12) The importance of understanding individual motivations beyond financial incentives is emphasized. Communication in Leadership (00:12:22) Carm highlights the necessity of active listening and communication in understanding team members' needs. Onboarding and Communication (00:13:15) Jon stresses the importance of consistent communication during onboarding to understand new team members. Impact of Strong Leadership (00:14:14) Andrew shares a story illustrating how strong leadership can transform team performance dramatically. Building Confidence in Team Members (00:17:37) Discusses the importance of nurturing team members' self-image and confidence for their growth. Balancing Visionary and Integrator Roles (00:18:45) Explores the duality of being a visionary and an integrator in leadership. Importance of Continuous Learning (00:19:09) Emphasizes the need for leaders to seek new information and stay educated. Growth Mindset in Leadership (00:20:43) Highlights the significance of a growth mindset for effective leadership and team development. Avoiding Staleness in Leadership (00:21:34) Discusses the risk of leaders becoming repetitive and the need for fresh insights. High-Impact Leadership (00:22:17) Focuses on maximizing impact in leadership through disciplined time management and continuous education. Seeking Knowledge from Multiple Sources (00:23:43) Encourages leaders to gather insights from various experiences and learning opportunities. The Importance of Communication (00:24:01) Discusses the critical role of effective communication in maintaining team morale and cohesion.d. Feedback and Self-Improvement (00:27:16) Emphasizes the necessity of seeking feedback for personal and organizational growth. Surrounding Yourself with Challenging Peers (00:29:33) Discusses the dangers of surrounding oneself with "yes men" and the value of honest feedback. Intent vs. Impact in Leadership (00:31:05) Examines the complexities of social interactions between leaders and team members. Navigating Success Disparities (00:33:03) Highlights the challenges of varying levels of success within a team and its impact on dynamics. Credibility in Leadership (00:35:15) Emphasizes the need to publicly praise and empower leadership teams for better organizational credibility. 360 Feedback Importance (00:36:18) Highlights the significance of anonymous 360 feedback in assessing leadership effectiveness and organizational trust. Servant Leadership Concept (00:38:48) Introduces servant leadership as a model that requires connection and understanding of team needs. Continuous Self-Improvement (00:40:29) Encourages seeking training and peer groups for personal and professional growth in leadership. Evolving Leadership Roles (00:43:25) Discusses the necessity of adapting roles within a business to foster growth and effective leadership. Tough Decisions in Leadership (00:44:05) Stresses the importance of making difficult choices, such as letting go of toxic employees for organizational health.
      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


  • Our Sponsors



×
×
  • Create New...