Quantcast
Jump to content


Recommended Posts

Posted

My name is Uzek Susol, I live/work & have grown up on Orcas Island Washington.

I started tearing apart lawn mowers & cars in my grandpa's back yard as far back as I can remember, quit school at 17 (couldn't stand sitting listening to things that didn't stimulate me) & went straight to work in an auto repair shop.

When I was 22 (1990) I opened my own shop, started with $5,000 & a rented 2 bay shop, in 2000 I bought commercial property & built my own 8 bay shop with 4 ASE technicians, a service writer & a 24hr Towing/Roadside Service, we recently became a Napa AutoCare Center.

I find myself happy working & making good money in a beautiful location but having a hard time finding time off & watching my kids growing up way too fast.

Posted

Glad your here... this site will not only help with the daily running of your shop but also in how to cope with the ups and downs of the business.

Feel free to comment, put your input in, or just stop by to say Hi, Howdy, How are ya... glad to have ya. Gonzo

 

My name is Uzek Susol, I live/work & have grown up on Orcas Island Washington.

I started tearing apart lawn mowers & cars in my grandpa's back yard as far back as I can remember, quit school at 17 (couldn't stand sitting listening to things that didn't stimulate me) & went straight to work in an auto repair shop.

When I was 22 (1990) I opened my own shop, started with $5,000 & a rented 2 bay shop, in 2000 I bought commercial property & built my own 8 bay shop with 4 ASE technicians, a service writer & a 24hr Towing/Roadside Service, we recently became a Napa AutoCare Center.

I find myself happy working & making good money in a beautiful location but having a hard time finding time off & watching my kids growing up way too fast.

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
      Our world is rushing head first into an A.I. future and we want to encourage our listeners to remain vigilant in these exciting times, as there is some legitimate cause for concern with the changes brought by A.I. Technology.
      Joining us as our guest is Dan Vance from Shop Dog Marketing.
      Craig has known Dan for a few years now and it was at ASTA in 2023 that he first heard Dan Speak Up on the topic of AI to a group of shop-owners on the promise and peril of AI…and he saw Dan deliver a presentation on the topic again at the MARS marketing conference with the Institute for Business Excellence in (beautiful) Ogde, UT earlier this year.
      In this episode Dan acknowledges many of Craig's concerns regarding AI, while they both align on the actual benefits. 
      Craig states regularly that the last skill machines should ever be able to take from us is our ability to communicate interpersonally and … but in some areas - A.I. is far more capable of outperforming certain tasks.  While that is happening - there remains a disconnect between AI’s ability to generate data and present the data in a way that can produce more effective interactions with real people. 
      Our listeners who may share in Craig’s concerns will no doubt appreciate Dan’s calm and reassuring thoughts on the topic.  
      Watch the YouTube Video
      Topics include:  
      Early AI and Machine learning The concept of Human Capital. Authenticity as a new focus Communication tendency becoming less synchronous Efficiency vs. Authenticity and what we lose AI Strengths and practical uses Social Proof - and a word on Reviews and AI Google quality rater guidelines - EAT - Experience Authority and Trust
      Join Our Virtual Toastmasters: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
      Thank You To Our Partners:
      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
    • 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.

    • 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 delves into enhancing customer experience in the auto repair industry. He underscores that many customers have never encountered exceptional service, presenting a unique opportunity for shops to stand out. Chris shares practical tips for creating memorable interactions, emphasizing communication, trust, and personal connections. He advises making every touchpoint memorable, under-promising and over-delivering, and building trust through transparency.


      Chris begins by discussing the importance of first impressions. He suggests that the initial phone call or visit to the shop sets the tone for the entire customer experience. He recommends training staff to greet customers warmly, listen attentively to their concerns, and provide clear, concise information about the services offered. By doing so, shops can immediately establish a positive rapport with their clients.


      Next, Chris highlights the significance of ongoing communication. He advises shop owners to keep customers informed throughout the repair process, providing updates on the status of their vehicle and any unexpected issues that arise. This proactive approach not only keeps customers in the loop but also demonstrates the shop's commitment to transparency and honesty.


      Chris also emphasizes the power of personal connections. He encourages shop owners to take the time to get to know their customers, remembering their names, preferences, and previous interactions. This personalized approach can make customers feel valued and appreciated, fostering loyalty and repeat business.


      In addition to these interpersonal strategies, Chris discusses the importance of creating a comfortable and welcoming shop environment. He suggests investing in a clean, well-organized waiting area with amenities such as Wi-Fi, refreshments, and reading materials. A pleasant atmosphere can make the wait time more enjoyable and leave a lasting positive impression.


      Sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, the episode highlights the importance of marketing in attracting and retaining customers. Chris advises shop owners to leverage digital marketing tools, such as social media and email campaigns, to showcase their exceptional service and engage with their audience. He also recommends soliciting and showcasing customer reviews and testimonials to build credibility and trust.


      The episode concludes with Chris encouraging shop owners to transform their services into unforgettable experiences. He reminds them that in an industry where exceptional service is rare, going above and beyond can set their shop apart from the competition. By focusing on communication, trust, personal connections, and a welcoming environment, auto repair shops can create loyal customers who return time and time again.


      Introduction to Supercharging Your Auto Repair Business (00:00:05)
      Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on enhancing auto repair business strategies.
      The Concept of Customer Experience (00:01:01)
      Discussing the importance of customer experience in retaining clients and outshining competitors.
      Understanding Customer Loyalty (00:02:10)
      Exploring reasons why some customers remain loyal despite poor service and the impact of experience.
      The Customer Experience Gap (00:03:10)
      Highlighting the difference between basic service and exceptional customer experience in auto repair.
      Making Touchpoints Memorable (00:04:11)
      Tips on ensuring every interaction with customers is professional and positive.
      The Importance of Communication (00:05:25)
      Emphasizing clear and consistent communication to reduce customer frustrations and build trust.
      Under-Promise and Over-Deliver (00:05:25)
      Encouraging shops to exceed customer expectations with timely service and added touches.
      Building Trust through Transparency (00:06:30)
      Discussing the significance of honesty and transparency in auto repair to foster customer trust.
      Creating Personal Connections (00:06:30)
      Strategies for personalizing service to enhance customer loyalty and satisfaction.
      The Competitive Advantage of Experience (00:07:35)
      Explaining how superior customer experience can be a shop's strongest competitive edge.
      Conclusion and Call to Action (00:07:35)
      Encouraging listeners to focus on creating unforgettable customer experiences to crush the competition.




      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
      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:
      Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop 
      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
    • By carmcapriotto
      Today’s episode tackles a critical issue that could cost your business thousands—your domain name. What happens if it expires? Spoiler alert: It’s not good. An expired domain can bring your website crashing down, devastate your SEO rankings, and even force you to pay big money to get it back. But don't worry, we’re here to guide you through it!
      We’ll dive into the risks of letting your domain lapse and share practical steps to make sure this never happens to you. This episode is packed with essential advice that could save you a fortune and keep your online presence safe.
      Grab your headphones, hit play, and 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)
      Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/ 
      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


  • Our Sponsors

×
×
  • Create New...