Quantcast
Jump to content

Making it all official!

HTI.WERKSTATT
 Share

Recommended Posts

HTI.WERKSTATT Explorer

HTI.WERKSTATT

Posted
Posted

Hey guys, I'm finally getting all my ducks in a row over at the shop. (Well for the most part). I should be receiving my LLC paperwork from the state of Ohio any day now. The DBA will take another couple weeks. As you all may have read in some of my prior postings we aren't a high volume shop at this point in time, but we are growing steadily. I'm loosing my best technician other than myself on Friday of this week. And come monday I have a college student with two years of automotive tech training from the local community college starting on Monday, he's only going to be part time until he finishes his education at the community college, as I have agreed to of course work him around his school schedule. As well I may need to bring in another full time technician, although I'm still having trouble finding one who is worth a darn. More on that later.

 

 

Well since my shop is about to be official within the next couple days, and I'm hiring technically my first employee. Where in the world do I start as far as accounting/book keeping? I can't afford to pay an accountant at this point in time, and I have the experience of doing my own 1099 taxes for the past 5 years, so I understand the basics of profit and loss, etc... My biggest issue here is not only going to be book keeping, profit and loss, but also: payroll, federal, state, city, social security, and workers compensation, and etc for my employees... What do some of you small guys use, or have used when first starting up.

 

I know from reading a lot on here I should just hire someone in charge of my quote un quote HR dept, service writing dept, etc... but as well I'm not in full bloom as many of you guys are, and need to save as much cash for the business as possible at this point. We still need more equipment and etc... Any help or words of wisdom here will be much appreciated guys. And as far as this forum goes should be a wealth of information for future use of any new comers, possibly a good "sticky"...

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
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Available Subscriptions

    See all Subscription Plans

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

    • Joe Marconi
      The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart
      By Joe Marconi in Joe's 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

    • carmcapriotto
      We All Want to Be Special [E177] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
      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
    • carmcapriotto
      Preparing for May's Marketing [E143] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
      By carmcapriotto
      Want to make your shop’s marketing stand out this May? Join Brian Walker and Caroline LeGrand as they break down creative ways to engage your audience, plan your content, and connect with your community.
      In this episode, they’ll share creative campaign ideas, fun social media prompts, and practical ways to highlight your team, engage customers, and boost brand awareness. Plus, get inspiration for using national holidays like National Skilled Trades Day, Road Trip Day, and even Pizza Party Day to keep your content fresh and relevant.
      Don’t miss this opportunity to simplify your marketing and make a real impact. Tune in now and start planning content that connects!
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal is the key that unlocks more business for your repair shop. Learn More at RepairPal.com/shops. 
      AppFueled makes marketing easy. It’s a CRM designed for auto repair shops with tools like segmentation, reminders, and even a call center. Don’t wait—get started today at appfueled.com
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      Days of the Year
      National Calendar 
      Show Notes with Timestamps
      Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)  Brian and Caroline introduce the podcast and thank RepairPal for their support. Preparing for May Marketing (00:01:16)  Discussion on planning marketing strategies for May, emphasizing the importance of advance preparation. General Marketing Themes (00:02:00)  Overview of summer-related topics, tax return spending, and pre-trip inspections for vehicles. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month (00:03:17)  Highlighting the importance of motorcycle safety and tips for drivers and riders. Military Appreciation Month (00:03:39)  Encouraging auto repair shops to give back to military personnel throughout May. Teacher Appreciation Week (00:04:34)  Ideas for showing gratitude to teachers, including small gestures and discounts. National Pet Week (00:05:50)  Encouragement to engage customers by sharing pet photos on social media. Celebrating Various Appreciation Weeks (00:07:05)  Discussion on multiple appreciation weeks in May and the importance of selecting key themes. Learn to Ride a Bike Day (00:08:04)  Suggestions for community engagement by helping kids learn to ride bikes. National Skilled Trades Day (00:09:00)  Promoting skilled trades and hosting events to educate youth about automotive careers. Star Wars Day (May the 4th) (00:10:26)  Fun marketing ideas related to Star Wars Day for engaging customers. National Odometer Day (May 12th) (00:11:42)  Ideas for a fun contest involving vehicle odometer readings to engage customers. RepairPal Certification (00:13:14)  Discussion on becoming RepairPal certified and the benefits for auto repair shops. App Fueled Introduction (00:14:18)  Overview of a customer loyalty app designed for auto service shops. National Lost Sock Memorial Day (00:14:54)  Encouragement for creative engagement ideas related to this fun holiday. Military Appreciation Month (00:15:06)  Suggestions for acknowledging military families and providing discounts. National Dance Like a Chicken Day (00:15:59)  Call to action for engaging with customers through fun activities. Check Your Wipers Day (00:16:27)  Importance of checking wipers before summer travel and educating clients. National Pizza Party Day (00:18:05)  Highlighting the fun of pizza party day and community engagement. Armed Forces Day (00:18:28)  Ideas for honoring military personnel and their contributions. Memorial Day Awareness (00:18:46)  Discussion on the solemn nature of Memorial Day and appropriate observances. National Road Trip Day (00:19:34)  Emphasis on preparing vehicles for summer road trips and inspections. National Rescue Dog Day (00:20:13)  Celebrating rescue pets and their connection to the auto repair community. World Marketing Day (00:20:48)  Encouragement to appreciate and promote effective marketing efforts. Paws and Pistons Campaign (00:22:41)  Combining pet care with auto services for community engagement. Prepping for Road Trip Day (00:24:51)  Continued focus on educating customers about road trip preparations. Engagement Ideas (00:25:34)  Encouragement to share personal stories and engage customers creatively.
      Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind (00:26:01)  Invitation to join the Facebook group for sharing marketing ideas and support.
      How To Get In Touch
      Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook
      Meet The Pros
      Follow SMP on Facebook
      Follow SMP on Instagram
      Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book
      Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics 
      Thanks again for listening to The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast on Aftermarket Radio Network. There are some other great shows on the network and you can find them at AftermarketRadioNetwork.com or on your favorite podcast listening apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and many others
      Thanks to our Partners,
      RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops. Quality Car Repair. Fair Price Guarantee.
      App Fueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
      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 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.
      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 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
    • carmcapriotto
      State of the Union Address! [E204] - 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 of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton delivers an insightful "state of the industry" update specifically tailored for auto repair businesses. He delves into the current challenges and opportunities facing the industry, starting with the rising vehicle dependability issues that have become increasingly prevalent. As cars age and require more frequent maintenance, auto repair shops are seeing a surge in demand for their services.
      Chris also explores the shifting consumer preferences towards more fuel-efficient vehicles, driven by environmental concerns and fluctuating fuel prices. This trend is influencing the types of services and expertise that repair shops need to offer, as well as the parts and technologies they must be familiar with.
      Economic factors such as inflation and rising credit card debt are also impacting customer affordability, making it crucial for auto repair businesses to find ways to offer value while maintaining profitability. Chris emphasizes the importance of consistency in business practices, suggesting that shops should focus on delivering reliable service and building customer trust to navigate these economic challenges.
      Adapting to the increased demand for repairs on older vehicles is another key point Chris addresses. He advises shops to invest in training and tools that enable them to efficiently service a wider range of vehicle makes and models, ensuring they can meet the needs of their diverse customer base.
      Furthermore, Chris highlights the need for improved technician work conditions, recognizing that attracting and retaining skilled technicians is essential for any repair shop's success. He suggests that businesses consider offering competitive wages, benefits, and a positive work environment to keep their teams motivated and productive.
      Strategic marketing is another area Chris focuses on, encouraging auto repair shops to leverage digital marketing strategies to reach potential customers effectively. He underscores the importance of a strong online presence and targeted advertising to stand out in a competitive market.
      State of the Industry Update (00:01:10)
      Chris shares insights on the auto repair industry's current state and trends for 2025.
      Vehicle Dependability Study (00:02:17)
      Discussion on JD Power's vehicle dependability report and issues with vehicle reliability.
      Supply Chain Disruptions (00:03:43)
      Ongoing supply chain issues from the pandemic affecting vehicle repairs and parts availability.


      Shift in Consumer Preferences (00:06:09)
      Consumers are moving from SUVs and trucks to smaller, more affordable cars.


      Impact of Inflation on Vehicle Affordability (00:07:25)
      Inflation is influencing consumer buying habits and delaying vehicle purchases.


      Nissan's Production Changes (00:08:44)
      Nissan cuts jobs and production capacity, shifting focus toward electric vehicles.


      Tariffs and Their Effects (00:10:06)
      Discussion on potential tariffs and their impact on vehicle prices and customer affordability.


      Credit Card Debt Concerns (00:11:18)
      Rising credit card debt poses risks for customers' ability to pay for repairs.


      Production and Supply Chain Challenges (00:12:31)
      Expected production drops due to tariffs leading to shortages and delayed repairs.


      Market Growth Drivers (00:13:52)
      Identifying key groups driving growth in the auto repair market.


      Decline of Certain Repair Shops (00:15:20)
      Analysis of repair shops losing revenue and market share.


      Technician Workforce Insights (00:15:20)
      Statistics on technician preferences, job satisfaction, and recruitment challenges.


      New Vehicle Sales Trends (00:18:01)
      Declining new vehicle sales and shifting mileage to older vehicles.


      Aftermarket Growth Opportunities (00:19:22)
      Increased demand for repairs on older vehicles presents opportunities for repair shops.


      Conclusion and Call to Action (00:20:25)
      Chris emphasizes the importance of adapting to industry changes and promotes Shop Marketing Pros again.
      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


      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
    • Changing The Industry
      Two Shop Owners React: PartsTech's Industry Survey for 2025
      By Changing The Industry
      Two Shop Owners React: PartsTech's Industry Survey for 2025
    • Joe Marconi
      Could You Sell Your Repair Shop Tomorrow? If You Needed Too?
      By Joe Marconi

      Premium Member Content 

      This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.



  • Joe Marconi

    Five Proven Tips to Improve Your Bottom Line

    By Joe Marconi, in Selling Automotive Repair,

    0 comments 1,085 views
    Joe Marconi

    Isn’t It Time We Rethink What a Master Level Technician Is?

    By Joe Marconi, in Automotive Industry,

    1 comment 1,222 views
    Joe Marconi

    Marketing Strategies To Attract and Retain Your Ideal Customers

    By Joe Marconi, in Automotive Marketing,

    0 comments 244 views

  • Our Sponsors



Main Sections

More Sections

Discussion Forums

×
×
  • Create New...