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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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Rev Up Your Customer Service: Merging Tech and Personal Touches for Success [E202] - 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
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.
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 episode 202 of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton takes a deep dive into the financial performance of auto repair shops, offering listeners a comprehensive analysis based on insights from the January edition of Ratchet & Wrench magazine. Throughout the episode, Coach Chris emphasizes the critical importance of tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as annual revenue, gross profit margins, and net profit margins. These metrics are essential for shop owners who aim to understand and enhance their business's financial health.
Coach Chris shares compelling survey statistics that reveal significant revenue growth within the auto repair industry over the past 15 years. This growth underscores the dynamic nature of the industry and the opportunities available for shop owners who are proactive in managing their finances. He highlights the necessity for shop owners to focus on improving their financial metrics, as doing so can lead to increased profitability and long-term success.
In addition to discussing financial performance, the episode also promotes Shop Marketing Pros, a specialized marketing company dedicated to serving auto repair shops. Shop Marketing Pros offers tailored marketing solutions designed to help shop owners attract more customers and build a strong brand presence in their local markets.
Listeners of this episode will gain valuable insights into the financial aspects of running an auto repair shop and learn strategies to boost their business's performance. Coach Chris's expert advice, combined with the resources provided by Shop Marketing Pros, equips shop owners with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive industry.
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:08)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its purpose to supercharge auto repair businesses.
Overview of Ratchet & Wrench Magazine (00:01:04)
Discussion on insights from the January edition of Ratchet & Wrench magazine regarding shop performance.
15-Year Industry Comparison (00:02:15)
Chris highlights changes in annual revenue and profit margins in the auto repair industry over 15 years.
Importance of Tracking KPIs (00:03:15)
Emphasis on the significance of key performance indicators for making informed financial decisions.
KPI Awareness Among Shop Owners (00:04:20)
Chris shares his experience teaching shop owners about KPIs, revealing a lack of awareness.
Current Revenue Statistics (00:05:20)
Over 50% of surveyed shops now report annual revenues exceeding $1 million, a significant increase from 15 years ago.
Gross Profit Margin Insights (00:06:18)
Discussion on gross profit margins, with over 50% of shops reporting margins above 50%.
Revenue Breakdown of Surveyed Shops (00:07:17)
Detailed statistics on revenue ranges among surveyed shops, highlighting growth trends.
Industry Consolidation Factors (00:09:35)
Analysis of industry consolidation and growth potential as more shops exceed $25 million in revenue.
Gross Profit Margin Categories (00:10:49)
Breakdown of gross profit margins among surveyed shops, with insights on profitability levels.
Net Profit Margin Overview (00:12:59)
Discussion on net profit margins, noting a concerning percentage of shops not generating profit.
Encouragement for Improvement (00:14:07)
Chris encourages shop owners to make small tweaks for improved profitability and performance.
Tracking and Measuring KPIs (00:16:12)
Final thoughts on the importance of tracking KPIs and using data to drive business improvements.
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
Lost Keys, Found Revenue: Capitalize on Key Replacement with AutoProPAD G3 [RR 1025]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Explore the profitable opportunity of key cutting and programming for auto repair shops in the automotive aftermarket. With around 25 million keys sold each year, many vehicle owners lose at least one key within the first 15 years of ownership. Matt Fanslow and Scott Gompper highlight the Nitrous AutoProPad G3, simplifying key programming and emphasizing the significant revenue potential within this largely untapped market. Matt Fanslow, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN, Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Podcast Scott Gompper, Nitrous Keys Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Introduction to Keys (00:00:00) Nitrous AutoPro ad G3 Features (00:01:07) Key Market Insights (00:02:38) Importance of Key Cutting (00:03:02) Programming Keys for Modules (00:04:30) Integrating Key Cutting Services (00:05:01) Tool Interface Explanation (00:05:22) Calculating ROI for Key Cutting (00:06:41) EV and Hybrid Vehicle Services (00:09:50) Key Cutting Machine Overview (00:11:00) Investment in Key Cutting Services (00:12:47) Marketing Key Cutting Services (00:13:40) Benefits of Attending Trade Shows (00:14:00) Fleet Services and Key Cutting (00:14:39)
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care 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: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -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 Twitter: 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
Episode 200 - Balancing Customer Service & Profitability in Auto Repair With Rick White & Mike Himes
By Changing The Industry

Episode 200 - Balancing Customer Service & Profitability in Auto Repair With Rick White & Mike Himes
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
Managing An Independent Shop: A Dealership Veteran’s Perspective [RR 1022]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Tune in to hear James Marsh's journey as he navigates the transition from a family-owned dealership to managing an independent automotive shop. James shares the significant differences between dealership and independent shop environments. He discusses marketing strategies, the importance of customer service, and the challenges and opportunities independent shops face. James Marsh, Empower Automotive, Traverse City, Michigan Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Empower Automotive Name Change (00:01:40) Transition from Dealership to Independent Shop (00:02:52) Employee Retention and Culture Shift (00:03:28) Perception of Independent Shops (00:05:40) Marketing Challenges (00:08:30) Wage Comparisons (00:10:01) Warranty Work Impact (00:11:55) Management Culture Differences (00:12:53) Key Performance Indicators (00:14:15) Customer Service Focus (00:14:49) Comfort with Aftermarket Parts (00:21:19) Quality Suppliers Discussion (00:22:00) Transition to Independent Service Center (00:22:33) Marketing Strategies for 2025 (00:23:40) Population and Market Insights of Traverse City (00:26:56) Impact of Remote Work on Local Economy (00:28:35) Networking for Hiring (00:30:12)
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care 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: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -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 Twitter: 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