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By Joe Marconi in Joe's BlogIt 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
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/autorepairmarketingmastermindIn
In this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," host Chris Cotton is joined by special guests Caroline Legrone and Kim Walker from Shop Marketing Pros to delve into the critical necessity of having a robust marketing plan for auto repair shops. The discussion centers around the pivotal role that a well-structured marketing strategy plays in the success and sustainability of these businesses.
Chris, Caroline, and Kim explore the multifaceted aspects of marketing planning, emphasizing the importance of leveraging historical data to gain insights into the business's performance over time. By analyzing this data, shop owners can pinpoint slow periods and develop proactive marketing strategies that align with local events and seasonal trends, thereby optimizing their outreach efforts.
Caroline Legrone underscores the significance of understanding past performance metrics, which can provide invaluable information for future planning. She explains how historical data can reveal patterns and trends that are crucial for making informed marketing decisions. This approach not only helps in identifying potential challenges but also in capitalizing on opportunities that may arise.
Kim Walker, on the other hand, offers practical insights into the creation of a comprehensive marketing calendar. She shares her expertise on how to systematically plan marketing activities throughout the year, ensuring that the shop remains visible and engaged with the community. Kim's advice includes tips on scheduling promotions, aligning campaigns with local happenings, and maintaining a consistent presence across various marketing channels.
Throughout the episode, the conversation is geared towards empowering shop owners to take control of their marketing efforts. By doing so, they can ensure sustained growth and foster stronger community engagement, even during traditionally slow periods. The episode serves as a call to action for auto repair shop owners to prioritize their marketing strategies, highlighting the long-term benefits of a well-executed plan.
Introduction and Importance of Marketing (00:00:09)
Chris Cotton introduces the episode and emphasizes the need for a marketing plan in auto repair businesses.
Guest Introductions (00:01:11)
Chris welcomes Caroline Legrone and Kim Walker from Shop Marketing Pros to the podcast.
Discussion on Car Count Issues (00:01:48)
Chris expresses concern over shop owners complaining about low car counts and the lack of planning.
Identifying Seasonal Trends (00:02:32)
Kim discusses common excuses for slow periods and the importance of recognizing seasonal trends.
Understanding the Marketing Calendar (00:04:23)
Caroline explains the significance of analyzing past performance to create an effective marketing calendar.
Proactive Marketing Strategies (00:06:11)
Kim shares insights on developing marketing plans based on historical data and identifying slow periods.
Creative Marketing Solutions (00:07:25)
Kim describes a unique marketing strategy developed around the local state fair to attract customers.
Importance of Planning Ahead (00:09:27)
Kim emphasizes the necessity of proactive planning rather than reacting to slow days.
Timing for Event Promotions (00:12:30)
Discussion on how far in advance to plan marketing strategies for events like the state fair.
Community Calendar Considerations (00:14:09)
Caroline advises checking community calendars to align marketing efforts with local events.
Adjusting Marketing Budgets (00:16:19)
Kim discusses the importance of reallocating marketing budgets based on seasonal trends.
Applicability to Different Locations (00:16:27)
Chris challenges the notion that marketing strategies are only relevant to local events, encouraging broader application.
Yearly Planning for Marketing (00:17:09)
Caroline stresses the importance of yearly planning for marketing strategies, even if starting late.
Setting Holiday Schedules (00:18:49)
Chris shares his approach to planning marketing around holiday closures as a starting point for the year.
Here are the extracted timestamps and their corresponding titles from the podcast episode transcription segment:
Importance of Planning (00:19:14)
Chris emphasizes the need for shop owners to have a structured marketing plan.
Blocking Time for Planning (00:19:40)
Kim advises shop owners to set aside undistracted time in October for planning.
Using a Big Calendar (00:20:17)
Kim suggests using a large calendar to visualize important dates and events affecting marketing.
Analyzing Performance Data (00:22:25)
Kim discusses breaking down historical data to identify busy and slow times for better planning.
Setting Realistic Goals (00:24:20)
Caroline stresses the importance of setting achievable marketing goals based on past performance.
Understanding Marketing Budgets (00:26:17)
Kim explains how to determine an appropriate marketing budget based on desired growth.
Plan with the Pros Conference (00:28:49)
Caroline introduces the "Plan with the Pros" event aimed at helping shop owners create marketing plans.
Event Success and Expansion (00:31:01)
Kim shares the success of last year's event and plans for expanding this year's attendance.
Facebook Group for Marketing Support (00:33:15)
Caroline details the Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind group for shop owners to connect and share insights.
Final Thoughts on Marketing (00:37:02)
Caroline encourages shop owners to create marketing calendars and utilize available resources for success.
Do It Scared (00:37:51)
Encouragement to start marketing despite fears of making mistakes or not knowing how to begin.
Getting Started (00:38:11)
Emphasis on taking action; "done is better than perfect" and scheduling time away from the shop.
Perspective on Fear (00:38:22)
Discussion on the urgency of creating a marketing calendar to avoid business decline.
Final Thoughts and Thanks (00:38:41)
Closing remarks and encouragement to utilize marketing pros for effective growth strategies.
Sponsorship Shout-Out (00:39:11)
Promotion of Shop Marketing Pros as the recommended marketing partner for auto repair businesses.
Closing Remarks (00:39:11)
Encouragement to maintain a positive mindset and a farewell from Coach Chris Cotton.
To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify.
Don't forget to rate and review us!
Connect with Chris:
AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching
www.autoshopcoaching.com
www.aftermarketradionetwork.com
940-400-1008
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
Email Chris: [email protected]
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.
#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
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By Joe Marconi
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By nptrb
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
Closing your shop on Saturdays might sound like a risky move, but could it actually improve your business? In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, explores the real financial and operational impact of shutting down on Saturdays. Is it worth it? What factors should you consider before making the switch? Whether you're thinking about a 5-day workweek, reducing hours, or making strategic changes to your shop’s schedule, this episode is packed with insights to help you make an informed decision.
Key Topics Covered:
✅ Why auto repair shops are moving away from Saturday hours
✅ The financial impact of closing on Saturdays—and how to make up for lost sales
✅ How to determine if your shop can afford fewer workdays
✅ The role of employee preferences in business hours
✅ Attracting top talent by offering a 5-day workweek
✅ Strategies to transition customers from weekend scheduling
✅ Real-life case studies of shops that successfully cut their Saturday hours
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
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]
Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413
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 https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill 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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