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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
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound
Watch Full Video Episode
Todays Show Post - Our notes today will be in a different format, written by our host.
Welcome to another episode of Speak Up - Effective communication.
Your place for focusing on elevating our communication skills in the auto repair industry - I’m your host Craig O’Neill….
I want you to ask yourself a question today - each time you receive a notification on one of your devices:
Do I need this?
Do I need to do something about this RIGHT NOW?
This has been my question for any number of the alerts that pop onto my screens on a daily basis. - - As I’ve been at war with distractions in my life. Loyal listeners have become familiar with my growing concern on the topic and I feel that I’ve begun to find some more balance slowly as of late and will share whats working for me.
Of note - I’ve been reading a book titled, “Stolen Focus - Why you can’t pay attention and how to think deeply again” by Johann Hari.
This read was a referral from Carm Capriotto - and it’s worth your attention.
In our episode today, I have some thoughts on the topic of notifications - and hope to get you thinking differently on what YOU are allowing devices to compromise YOUR focus!
Our Word of the Day:
Frenetic: fre·net·ic
adjective
fast and energetic in a rather wild and uncontrolled way.
Listen to this excerpt from the book, Stolen Focus - the author, Johann Hari, writes about a conversation with a friend who was getting notifications for things he didn’t want… and I’ll quote:
“... All this frenetic digital interruption is “pulling our attention away from our thoughts,” and I think we’re almost in this constant stimulus-driven, stimulus bound environment, moving from one distraction to the next.” If you don’t remove yourself from that, it will "suppress whatever train of thought you had.”
That is a quote from Stolen Focus - Why you can’t pay attention and how to think deeply again.”
The consequences of distractions are real - not just from tasks - but from our creative thoughts and even healthy mindwandering.
Hari mentions in his book that “a distraction such as looking at an image from a friend pulls the average person away for up to 20 mins! Not just one!
And if you look around, you’ll recognize that the distractions are EVERYwhere - and we now have this habitual tendency to scan for them, in our own pockets, and on our own wrists!
Look around you now - how many people do you see distracted by devices?
Before you blame yourself or feel bad about this - let me state - our technological world has been engineered this way in a deliberate attempt to get more engagement from us.
I will say - while I, like all modern humans, struggle with distractions, I have come to develop a few VERY simple and reasonable disciplines regarding notifications.
I feel sometimes a little old-fashioned on this… but as I discussed recently in episode 35 with Darren Mclea, I feel like I came of age with technology enough to appreciate a slower pace of information than what has been engineered around us now.
Here we go. My thoughts for LESS distractions - and being MORE present (be it with your own thoughts - or for the people you are with)
1.) Silence your device - I don’t care what tech eco-system you favor - noisy notifications are not just a distraction for you - they are distracting for others.
2.) Don’t keep your devices in your pocket at home or work.
3.) Disable notifications from all non-essential applications - (or uninstall all non essential applications)
4.) No social media notifications. This doesn’t mean no social media (but more on that another time). You can check it as you want when you want.
5.) Silence that group chat thread… you know the one. Texting and group texting… really does function like social media. Check at intervals.
6.) Smart Watches. Don’t. This is my opinion but it’s a strong one. I think one of three things when I see you look at a smart watch while in conversation: 1.) You have no time for this. 2.) You have something more important to do. Or 3.) This interaction is causing a blood pressure spike.
7.) Organize your emails - filter or unsubscribe from ALL non essential emails.
8.) Email Away Messages are OK! (There are conflicting schools of thought on this.)
9.) Set Expectations for availability with colleagues and loved ones.
10.) Replace the activity with something else - just turning off things on one device will often lead elsewhere.
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:
The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com. "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.
AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com
AutoLeap at AutoLeap.com. Are you tired of juggling multiple tools to manage your auto repair shop? Say hello to the streamlined efficiency of AutoLeap, the #1 all-in-one Auto Repair Shop Management Software!
Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.
In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.
Contact Information
Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected] Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
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/
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
n this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton delivers insightful guidance tailored specifically for auto repair shop owners. He delves into the effects of spring break on sales, underscoring the significance of having a well-planned marketing calendar to effectively navigate and prepare for seasonal slowdowns that can impact business. Chris enriches the discussion by sharing a personal anecdote about dealing with an aftermarket warranty issue, illustrating the critical importance of maintaining customer trust and satisfaction, even when it presents financial challenges for the business. This story serves as a reminder of the long-term value of prioritizing customer relationships and integrity.
Additionally, Chris provides an exciting update on Project Alpha, a shop he acquired, showcasing its remarkable turnaround in financial performance. He details the innovative staffing strategies implemented, which have contributed to the shop's success and growth. These strategies not only improved efficiency but also fostered a positive work environment, setting a benchmark for other shop owners to follow.
The episode is proudly sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, a company that specializes in providing marketing solutions tailored for auto repair shops. Their expertise helps shop owners enhance their visibility and reach, ensuring they stay competitive in the ever-evolving market.
**Spring Break Challenges (00:01:05)**
In this segment, Chris delves into the seasonal challenges faced by repair shops during the spring break period. He explains how the influx of vacations and travel plans leads to a noticeable dip in sales, as fewer customers seek repairs during this time. To counteract this trend, Chris emphasizes the importance of having a well-structured marketing calendar. By planning promotions and outreach efforts in advance, repair shops can better navigate the slow season and maintain a steady flow of business.
**Doing What's Right for Customers (00:06:31)**
Chris shares a compelling personal experience that underscores the significance of exceptional customer service. He recounts a situation where he had to make a tough decision to prioritize the needs of a customer over immediate profit. This story highlights the long-term benefits of building trust and loyalty by consistently doing what's right for customers. Chris argues that by putting customers first, businesses can foster stronger relationships and ultimately achieve greater success.
**Project Alpha Update (00:10:26)**
In this update, Chris provides an in-depth look at the progress of Project Alpha, the shop he recently acquired. He discusses the financial performance of the shop, noting significant improvements in revenue and profitability since the acquisition. Chris also outlines the operational changes implemented to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. From streamlining processes to upgrading equipment, these improvements have positioned the shop for continued growth and success in the competitive market.
Connect with Chris: chris autofixsos.com Phone: 940.400.1008 www.autoshopcoaching.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
Youtube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
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.
To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify.
Don't forget to rate and review us!
Connect with Chris:
AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching
www.autoshopcoaching.com
www.aftermarketradionetwork.com
#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
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
Key Highlights:
Matt reflects on the idea of self-awareness and balance, emphasizing that "everything comes from you" and that we are all part of a larger matrix of experiences and growth.
Vision Conference Recap:
Matt shares his experience at the Vision Conference, where he faced a challenging drive through a snowstorm and crosswinds to get there. He highlights the hands-on training sessions he participated in, including: Key Cutting and Programming Class: Co-taught with Andrew Sexton, where attendees got to physically cut keys and program them using a Honda ignition system. Pico Training: A full day of hands-on training with Scott Shotton, focusing on practical, car-side diagnostics. Tech Talks: Featuring Garrett Jacobson (HP Tuners) and Zeb Beard (Thermal Imaging), both of whom delivered high-energy, informative sessions.
Key Takeaways from Vision:
HP Tuners: Matt learned new functionalities of the tool, even after using it for over five years. Garrett Jacobson’s class demonstrated how intuitive and powerful the tool can be for diagnostics. Thermal Imaging: Zeb Beard emphasized the importance of using thermal imagers regularly, even when it doesn’t seem immediately necessary. His session focused on diesel diagnostics but applied to all vehicles.
Personal Reflections and Connections:
Matt shares heartfelt moments from the conference, including dinners with industry friends like Dan Baumgartner, Matt Hall, Kevin Looney, and others. They reminisced about Harvey Chan, a beloved figure in the industry who passed away too soon, and the impact he had on everyone. Matt reflects on the duality of emotions—being sad about losing someone but happy to share stories and memories.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories:
Matt dives into the importance of understanding the "behind-the-scenes" of how things are created, whether it’s a business, a movie scene, or even a professional wrestling match. He shares an iconic wrestling story about Stone Cold Steve Austin and Bret Hart, highlighting how collaboration and trust led to one of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.
Themes of Authenticity and Sharing Knowledge:
Matt discusses the tendency in the industry to want to feel "special" or to exaggerate success stories. He emphasizes the importance of being honest about how things are achieved, whether it’s diagnosing a tough problem or building a successful shop. He encourages technicians and shop owners to share their real stories, even if they involve luck or being in the right place at the right time.
Filling Your Own Bucket:
Matt reflects on the need for self-validation and filling your own "bucket" rather than constantly seeking external validation. He stresses the importance of being honest with yourself and others, giving credit where it’s due, and taking pride in your work without exaggeration.
Key Quotes:
"Set the freaking thermal imager on your diagnostic cart and start using it, even when you don’t know why." "At some point, you’re going to have to fill your own cup. You’re going to have to be content with yourself." "The real stories, if somebody could tell them, didn’t take away from the magic. It’s the art, the craftsmanship, the creativity that’s magical."
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/
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
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class This episode covers the practical benefits of digital vehicle inspections (DVIs) for shop owners. Learn how DVIs can boost Average Repair Orders (ARO) and improve customer communication. Industry professionals share real-world insights on overcoming cultural resistance, the role of leadership, and strategies for successful implementation. Plus, explore how AI enhances inspection reports and processes. Whether you're new to DVIs or looking to optimize, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help your shop thrive. Ben Dexter, National Training Manager, NAPA TRACS Chris Cloutier, Golden Rule Auto Care and CEO of Autoflow. Charlie Pixley, Charlie's Car Car, Clearwater, FL Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Introduction to Digital Vehicle Inspections (00:00:00) Challenges of Implementing DVI (00:03:03) Leadership and Accountability (00:04:07) Charlie's Experience with DVI (00:05:02) DVI Evolution and Adoption (00:06:25) Ben's Insights on Change (00:07:56) The Importance of KPIs (00:09:41) Battling Priorities in Shops (00:13:01) Improving DVI Processes (00:16:40) Customer Perspective on DVI (00:18:53) Challenges in DVI Implementation (00:19:45) Consumer Engagement with DVI (00:20:26) AI and Technology in DVI (00:21:18) Importance of Customer Complaints in DVI (00:22:36) Professionalism in DVI Communication (00:23:40) Learning from Industry Peers (00:25:21) Benefits of DVI for Sales Growth (00:26:38) Leadership Role in DVI Implementation (00:30:49) 300% Rule in DVI (00:33:03) Creating Habits for Change (00:35:44) Leadership and Accountability (00:36:36) Key Performance Indicators (00:41:21) Start Simple and Improve (00:42:07) Constant Correction and Praise (00:43:55)
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, 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
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