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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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By JustTheBest

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Communicate Like a Pro: Tips and Mistakes with Craig O'Neill [E116] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
By carmcapriotto

Today, we're excited to have a special guest with us, Craig O'Neill, a seasoned communication expert.
In this episode, we'll dive into Craig's unique approach to effective communication in the auto repair industry. We'll explore how he defines and measures communication success, the art of creating positive first impressions, and the crucial role of clear, transparent interactions in building client trust and retention.
We'll also discuss the impact of personalized communication, the importance of networking, and strategies for handling difficult conversations. Plus, Craig will share his insights on overcoming unexpected challenges in public speaking and his top-tier advice for shop owners looking to enhance their communication skills.
Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and practical tips that can transform how you communicate in your business.
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)
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self by Michael Easter Scarcity Brain: Fix Your Craving Mindset and Rewire Your Habits to Thrive with Enough by Michael Easter Remarkable Results Toastmasters Club
How To Get In Touch With The Guest

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigoneillaam/
Show Notes with Timestamps

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) The host welcomes listeners to episode 116 and introduces guest Craig O'Neill. Discussion on Communication (00:01:36) Craig and Kim explore the importance of communication and daily conversations. Inspiration from Fitness Influencers (00:02:47) Fitness enthusiast Joey Swole and discusses gym etiquette. Walking and Inspiration (00:03:10) Craig shares insights on walking as a source of inspiration and connection with his wife. Toastmasters Experience (00:04:18) Craig reflects on his five-year journey in Toastmasters and its impact on communication skills. Learning to Listen (00:05:11) The speakers discuss the importance of listening and how Toastmasters fosters this skill. Power of the Pause (00:09:17) They highlight the significance of pausing during conversations to enhance communication. Influential Authors (00:10:57) Craig talks about authors like Michael Easter and their impact on his communication journey. Turning 40 and Fitness Changes (00:12:26) Craig shares his new fitness regimen as he approaches his 40th birthday. The Comfort Crisis Book (00:14:11) Discussion on how the book “The Comfort Crisis” has influenced Craig’s perspective on health. The Importance of Influence (00:14:36) Craig discusses the amplification effect of networks and how individuals can inspire each other in unexpected ways. New Workout Regimen (00:15:56) Craig shares his new workout routine involving a rucksack, which he started on his 40th birthday. Reflecting on Podcast Hosting (00:18:09) Craig recounts his initial reaction when asked to host a podcast, feeling surprised and honored. The Essence of Good Communication (00:19:14) Kim highlights Craig's natural ability to communicate and connect with others easily. Listening vs. Hearing (00:23:18) Craig emphasizes the importance of genuinely listening to people to foster meaningful conversations. Communication Challenges in Family Business (00:26:36) Craig reflects on communication mistakes and challenges faced in their family business. The Spiral of Dysfunctional Communication (00:27:51) Craig discusses how anger and frustration can lead to a downward spiral in communication dynamics. The Importance of Connection (29:30) Discussion on how people often don't reach out for help and the importance of community. Facebook Group Dynamics (29:53) Kim shares her protective approach to managing their Facebook group and the excitement of welcoming new members. Influence of Dale Carnegie (30:34) Kim discusses the impact of "How to Win Friends and Influence People" on personal relationships and communication. Tips for Remembering Names (33:00) Craig shares strategies for helping others remember your name in networking situations. The Art of Introduction (35:30) The significance of introducing people and creating connections in networking events is highlighted. Navigating Hard Conversations (38:02) Kim shares her experience with difficult conversations and encourages others to engage in them for peace. Strategies for Effective Feedback (41:34) Craig discusses the importance of giving constructive feedback and the principles behind having hard conversations. The Challenge of Hard Conversations (42:59) Craig expresses his discomfort with hard conversations and the need for ongoing discussions about them. Crisis Management in Speaking (00:43:43) Discussion on handling unexpected crises while presenting and how it can alleviate nerves. Compartmentalizing Emotions (00:44:37) Kim shares her experience of compartmentalizing personal issues during a presentation for better focus. Unexpected Medical Situation (00:45:35) Brian's heart procedure causes a last-minute change in Kim's travel plans to Ogden, Utah. Transparency in Teaching (00:46:28) Kim emphasizes the importance of being open and vulnerable with the audience during her presentation. Inspiring Moments in Toastmasters (00:47:40) Craig praises Kim’s ability to connect with her audience and inspire them through her teaching. Handling Last-Minute Changes (00:49:05) Craig recounts stepping in to lead a session after his colleague had to leave unexpectedly. The Importance of Mentorship (00:50:10) Craig reflects on how mentorship shaped his speaking skills and prepared him for unexpected challenges. Impact of Communication Skills (00:51:42) Discussion on the significance of developing communication skills for personal and professional growth. Audience-Centric Approach (00:52:32) The speakers stress that effective communication is about focusing on the audience, not oneself. Respectful Communication (00:53:02) Craig shares a lesson from his mentor on dressing appropriately to show respect for the audience. Overcoming Speaking Anxiety (00:54:00) Kim narrates her experience of speaking after a famous singer and how she managed her nerves. The Power of Honesty (00:56:01) Kim discusses using honesty and transparency to connect with the audience and diffuse anxiety. Speed Round (00:56:36) A quick-fire segment where Kim and Craig answer fun questions about preferences and communication. Introduction to Speak Up (00:57:48) Craig promotes his new show on effective communication, highlighting its availability on the aftermarket radio network. Closing Remarks (00:58:02) Kim and Craig reflect on the enjoyable conversation, hinting at the potential for a longer discussion. Podcast Sign-Off (00:58:04) Kim thanks listeners for tuning in and promotes the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Show Recommendations (00:58:11) Kim shares information about other shows on the aftermarket radio network, including Craig’s new show, Speak Up. Final Thoughts (00:58:31) Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast and suggest topics for future discussions.
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]
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Can Companies Like Repair Pal & Open Bay help a New Repair Shop?
By Joe Marconi

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Smart Advice to New Shop Owners [THA 393]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching, and Today's Class This episode is packed full of practical advice and personal stories that will resonate with new and aspiring shop owners. From leadership and financial management to team development and continuous learning, there's something for everyone. Key insights include the significance of self-awareness, the balance between assertiveness and approachability, the value of mentorship, and the necessity of understanding financial health. Show Notes
Leadership Challenges for New Owners (00:03:39) Discussion on the courage and mindset required for new shop owners transitioning from technicians. Matt's Personal Story (00:04:46) Matt shares his journey of overcoming a catastrophic injury and learning to run his business. Developing Leadership Skills (00:05:10) The importance of recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses in leadership. Balancing Assertiveness and Approachability (00:06:22) The challenge of being both assertive and approachable as a leader. The Value of Delegation (00:06:54) Panelists discuss the difficulties of delegating tasks and trusting team members. Peer Support in the Industry (00:08:01) Carm highlights the importance of seeking help and support from peers in the automotive industry. The Role of Coaching (00:10:04) Tom emphasizes the benefits of leveraging coaching services for business success. Understanding Finances (00:12:19) Discussion on the significance of financial awareness and making informed business decisions. Building a Strong Foundation (00:13:28) Tom draws parallels between scouting and building a successful automotive business. Finding Purpose and Alignment (00:15:02) The importance of aligning with team members who share the business vision. Letting Go and Empowering Employees (00:15:52) Insights on the challenge of stepping back and empowering employees to grow. Creating a Team of Heroes (00:16:32) Discusses the importance of guiding younger technicians and the balance between letting them learn through struggle. Controlled Failure as a Learning Tool (00:17:22) Explores the concept of controlled failure in learning and its parallels to youth-led scouting. Understanding Financial Margins (00:18:33) Emphasizes the significance of understanding profit margins and financial health for shop owners. The Importance of a Shop Management System (00:19:14) Highlights the necessity of having a solid shop management system for operational efficiency. Facing Business Uncertainties (00:22:02) Matt shares his initial fears and the value of a comprehensive business plan before opening his shop. The Courage to Hire (00:23:10) Discusses the fear of hiring an advisor and the eventual realization of their value in the business. Hiring the Right People (00:25:35) Focuses on viewing employees as assets and the importance of making informed hiring decisions. Customer Loyalty and Shop Culture (00:27:28) Stresses the need for a strong shop culture to maintain customer loyalty and service quality. The Value of Training (00:28:17) Discusses the importance of investing in training for employees and the long-term benefits it brings. Being a Perpetual Student (00:29:50) Carm talks about the importance of continuous education and learning for shop owners. Leadership and Culture Connection (00:32:00) Explores the intertwined nature of leadership and culture in building a successful shop environment. Understanding Leadership (00:32:22) Discussion on personal leadership, personality traits, and the importance of self-assessment tools. Developing Team Leaders (00:32:47) Emphasis on nurturing leadership within the team and the impact of leadership coaching. Financial Support for Training (00:33:49) Overview of reimbursement programs that support leadership training costs for staff. Team Collaboration Growth (00:34:37) Insights into improved team collaboration and resolving conflicts independently. Self-Reflection for Shop Owners (00:35:25) Advice on understanding personal strengths and weaknesses for effective leadership. Peer Support in Leadership (00:36:14) The value of peer discussions and support in personal and professional growth. Self-Evaluation Importance (00:36:45) Highlighting the need for self-evaluation, especially for new and younger shop owners. Transformation Through Assessment (00:37:03) Personal growth and transformation through repeated strengths assessment tests. Right People in Right Roles (00:38:17) Importance of aligning team members with their strengths for optimal performance. Continuous Learning and Adaptation (00:40:17) Encouragement to embrace challenges and continuously learn in business management. Risk Management in Business (00:41:34) Discussion on understanding and managing risks as an essential part of business. Time Management for Business Growth (00:42:08) Advice on documenting time wasters and focusing on business development. The Pull of Passion (00:43:08) Reflection on the challenges of balancing passion for work with business responsibilities. 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: -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 X (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 -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
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