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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
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
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By carmcapriotto
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:
Craig O’Neill, welcomes his friend and communications expert, David Boyd, as our guest. Listen up to hear the thoughtful conversation between David and Craig across a variety of topics and questions related to the phones skills of your staff, AI use in the world today, and the outlook for the future.
A key question: “Will the job of the service advisor still exist?”
As AI solutions seem to become more and more sophisticated - the question has career advisors wondering this aloud.
The conversation should be encouraging for anyone who takes their professional role as a service advisor seriously, and the future, according to David and Craig, appears bright.
According to David, the service advisor is the person we should be empowering further, and developing, as this is the role focused on building relationships.
The conversation draws on additional points related to what we learned during Covid and the real value of actual connection, as well as some of the pitfalls for what occurs when a productive technician is forced to answer phone calls.
Listeners will walk away with some practical advice from this episode, and more clear vision for a coachable front counter that is focused on connecting!
The WOTD Today:
Affable
Noun-
Friendly - good natured - easy to talk to
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] Watch Full Video Episode 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 Zenoo
Hi my name is Zenas and I am 26 years old from Alberta, Canada. I started my own automotive repair shop in December 2023. After running it for 1 year I made a little bit of profit. I needed some advice on how I could increase it. Its a 3 bay shop with two 2 post hoists and one 4 post hoist with alignment. I am the only mechanic in the shop as I can't afford to hire anyone at this point. I am charging about $120 per hour for the labor and very minimal mark up on parts. The shop had no customer base when I got it so it took me sometime to build returning customers. If I try to increase the prices on parts the customers run away. Seems like they are calling around the city and going to the cheapest person. My monthly over head cost is about $7000. Whatever I make in a month goes back into next month's rent. Any advices on how to manage this properly from other shop owners?
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
Matt Fanslow, an ASE certified Master Automotive Technician, reviews a YouTube video reacting to Google's top questions about car problems. Matt provides his expert insights and clarifications on topics ranging from car batteries, vibrations, and parasitic drains to more complex issues involving EVAP systems and the importance of proper diagnostics. Additionally, he offers commentary on the importance of ongoing training for technicians, skill gaps in the industry, and the economics behind charging for diagnostic work. Matt combines humor and professional knowledge to educate viewers on both basic and advanced automotive questions.
Watch Full Video Episode
Show Notes with Timestamps
React Video (00:00:00) Google's Top Questions (00:01:20) Why Does My Car Battery Keep Dying? (00:01:26) Vibration When Stopping (00:03:10) Why Does My Car Shake When I Drive? (00:04:57) Squeaking When Turning (00:08:32) Shaking When Accelerating (00:10:09) Bad Smell from AC (00:11:44) Shaking When Braking (00:14:52) Gas Leaks and Evaporative Emission Systems (00:15:38) Importance of Oil in Engines (00:17:59) Napa Auto Tech Training Programs (00:20:49) Causes of Car Overheating (00:22:04) Why Cars Need Gas (00:23:39) Reasons for Cars Burning Oil (00:24:01) Backfiring and Misfires in Cars (00:26:05) Expiration of Car Seats (00:27:14) Mechanics' Pricing and Value (00:28:20) Why Mechanics Wear Gloves (00:30:42) Mechanics and Chemicals (00:31:44) Mechanics' Pay (00:31:59) Skill Levels in Auto Repair (00:32:06) Wage Misconceptions (00:33:29) Honesty in the Trade (00:35:09) Uniforms and Image (00:36:39) Charging for Diagnostics (00:39:44) Comparing Auto Repair to Other Professions (00:42:12) What Mechanics Do (00:43:36) Hourly Rates and Costs (00:45:58) How do mechanics get paid? (00:47:26) Flat rate pay explained (00:47:37) Charging for diagnostics (00:52:36) The demand for mechanics (00:54:41) Passion for automotive work (00:57:00) Certifications and training (00:59:04) Handling car emergencies (01:00:39) Dealing with car recalls (01:01:29) What to do if a car is stolen (01:02:03) Carbon Monoxide Concerns (01:03:13) What to Do If Your Car Is Hit While Parked (01:04:24) Insurance Company Guidance (01:04:40) Reacting to Answers and Feedback (01:05:07)
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
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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By carmcapriotto
Podcasting isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about sharing the journey. In this episode, we tackle the hard truth: Podcast hosts don’t have it all figured out. From the insecurities of giving advice to the challenges of staying authentic, we explore what it really means to put yourself out there as a host.
You’ll discover how to sift through advice, find what works for you, and embrace the imperfect process of learning and leading. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have it all together, this episode will remind you—you’re not alone.
Listen in for an honest discussion about navigating the auto repair industry, embracing authenticity, and growing through the challenges of imperfection!
Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal’s Certified
Network of shops are trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at
RepairPal.com/shops
Are you ready to convert clients to members? App fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your own customer loyalty app. Visit Appfueled.com
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-118-doing-video-every-day-for-a-month/ - Episode 118 VEDA
https://agencyanalytics.com/blog/how-profit-first-helped-this-agency-scale - Profit First Was the Key to Our Agency’s Financial Transformation
https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-125-its-ok-to-dream-big-stop-playing-small/ - It’s OK to Dream Big (Stop Playing Small)
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) Brian introduces the podcast and sets the theme about podcast hosts not having all the answers. Inspiration from Mike Allen's Post (00:00:10) Discussion on how Mike Allen's humorous post sparked Brian's reflections on podcasting and advice-giving. Brian's Insecurities as a Host (00:01:15) Brian shares his personal insecurities regarding his role as a podcast host and influencer. Critique of Influencers (00:02:26) Brian expresses frustration with influencers who claim to have life figured out, relating it to his experiences. Sharing Personal Experiences (00:03:33) Emphasis on the importance of sharing personal learning experiences rather than presenting oneself as an expert. Struggles with Advice-Giving (00:04:36) Brian discusses his ongoing struggles with the advice he shares in his podcasts and posts. Imposter Syndrome (00:05:37) Brian reflects on feelings of imposter syndrome when sharing advice on managing expenses and business practices. Going Against Popular Opinion (00:06:46) Brian talks about the challenges of discussing unpopular business opinions and the reactions he receives. Sponsor Promotion: RepairPal (00:08:54) Brian promotes RepairPal and its benefits for auto repair shops seeking new customers. Sponsor Promotion: App Fueled (00:09:55) Introduction of App Fueled and its services for building customer loyalty apps for auto repair businesses. Rewarding Success Stories (00:10:59) Brian shares the rewarding experience of hearing success stories from listeners implementing his advice. Discernment in Advice-Giving (00:12:03) Brian advises listeners to discern the credibility of advice from various influencers and podcasters. Conclusion and Reflection (00:13:10) Brian wraps up the discussion, emphasizing the importance of honesty in sharing experiences and insights.
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
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