Quantcast
Jump to content

Recommended Posts

Posted

Do any of you use Demand Force marketing tools? Our managemnt system is working on integration with DemandForce. I saw a demo, I like most of what they do. Its kind of expensive but it gives us some added contanct avenues with the customer that we desire yet don't have the tools to implement though our management system alone. Who is using it and what kind of results are you seeing? What managment system are you using and how well does it integrate with DemandForce, primarily from recommendation management and customer self scheduling?

 

Thanks for the input!!!

Posted

We have been using DF for 4 years. They have a good product that has, for us, been worth the cost. Having said that we are moving our customer retention marketing to Auto Vitals. Auto Vitals does CRM, Web Site Development, Social Media Marketing and Digital Inspection/Shop Flow Management software that is really cool stuff.

Posted

I had a bad experience with Demand Force a few years ago. The biggest complaint is their customer service. They will work like mad to sign you up, show you a really sunny picture of what they can do for you and how much they care about your business however once you have a legitimate complaint or gripe, they will shuffle you between person to person. I got so fed up I dropped them after 2 months. Personally I'd look elsewhere. We are using Kukui with decent results.

Posted

The two primary features I'm looking for in this service is the management of recommended services as part of a customer contact management toolset and the ability for customers to request appointments via Internet/smartphone. The social media tools are great and useful but secondary in my opinion.

 

As far as I can tell Mitchell doesn't offer those kinds of tools and the last I looked at their management system it was sub-par. I'll take a look at Auto Vitals and Kukui.

 

Thanks!

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 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
      What impression does your business leave behind when you’re not there? In this episode, we tackle a vital question every shop owner should consider: What do you look like when you're not there? From the way your team interacts with customers to the legacy you leave for your family, this discussion will inspire you to reflect on your leadership and the culture you've built.
      We'll explore how to lead by example, empower your team, and ensure your presence is felt even in your absence. Whether it’s in your shop, at home, or in your community, the impressions you leave behind tell a powerful story.
      Don't miss this thought-provoking episode—listen now and start shaping the legacy you want to leave!
      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 professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      Square Body Dave - https://www.youtube.com/@squarebodydave 
      Show Notes with Timestamps


      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
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Join Maryann Croce in the fourth episode of the Unstoppable Framework for Auto Shop Owners series. Discover essential strategies for building trust, loyalty, and a thriving business by staying customer-focused and adaptable. Learn about gathering and acting on customer feedback, streamlining customer experiences, offering added services, building referral networks, and staying current with industry trends and training. Maryann Croce, Small Biz Vantage. Maryann’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Here's the downloadable worksheet link: https://bit.ly/3Yq4S4J Unstoppable Framework for Auto Shop Owners Part 1: Core Values and Vision [RR 997]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e997/ Unstoppable Framework for Auto Shop Owners Part 2: Mastering Your Finances [RRR 1004]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1004/ Unstoppable Framework for Auto Shop Owners Part 3: Optimize Processes and Empower Your Team [RR 1012]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1012/ MACS Training Event & Trade Show, Jan 30 – Feb 1, Orlando, FL: https://macsmobileairclimate.org/ The Unstoppable Framework (00:00:41) Part Four Overview (00:02:32) Importance of Customer Feedback (00:03:22) Client Story: Sarah's Transformation (00:05:51) Building Trust through Referrals (00:08:01) Shifting Perspective on Complaints (00:09:32) Customer Experience Walkthrough (00:10:27) The Gallon of Paint Analogy (00:12:58) Uplifting Shop Environment (00:13:53) Attracting the Right Customers (00:14:53) Staying Current with Training (00:16:07) Communication Trends and Customer Preferences (00:17:01) Practical Steps for Customer Focus (00:17:03) Streamlining Customer Experience (00:18:27) Building Referral Networks (00:19:43) Staying Open to Change (00:19:46) Thriving Through Change (00:20:25) Reframing Negative Reviews (00:21:36) Focus on Customer Training (00:24:07)
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care 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 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
    • By carmcapriotto
      In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, we explore the concept of "stolen leadership"—a fascinating approach to leadership where proactive team members step up and take ownership without waiting for permission. We'll discuss why this behavior can be a game-changer for your business, how to embrace it, and the importance of allowing your team to make mistakes as part of their growth.
      You'll hear insightful stories and practical advice on navigating the balance between guiding your team and stepping aside to let them thrive. Whether you're looking to empower your employees, reduce micromanagement, or create a workplace that fosters initiative and innovation, this episode has something for you.
      Don’t miss out on this powerful episode that could help you take your leadership skills—and your team—to the next level.
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for this episode. RepairPal will introduce your shop to new customers through repairpal.com, the largest site for auto repair. Learn more at
      RepairPal.com/shops.
      Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      https://www.tonyrobbins.com/disc - Disc Assessments
      https://books.google.com.ph/books?id=tpspDwAAQBAJ&newbks=0&lpg=PA1&pg=PA1#v=onepage&q&f=false - Extreme Ownership
      Shownotes with Timestamps 
      Introduction to the Episode (00:00:10)  Brian introduces the podcast and co-host Kim, mentioning her recent recovery. Definition of Stolen Leadership (00:01:08)  Discussion about the term "stolen leadership" and its positive implications in team dynamics. Personal Anecdotes on Leadership (00:03:37)  Brian shares a lunch conversation about the benefits of allowing others to take initiative. Kim's Experience with Stolen Leadership (00:04:29)  Kim reflects on her feelings when her responsibilities were taken over by a proactive team member. The Importance of Team Growth (00:06:17)  Brian emphasizes that a good leader encourages their team to surpass them in abilities. Balancing Leadership Roles (00:09:04)  Discussion on the need for both leaders and workers within an organization. Examples of Stolen Leadership (00:10:47)  Brian shares examples of team members who have successfully taken on leadership roles. Acknowledging Contributions (00:14:02)  The importance of recognizing team members who fill gaps and take initiative. Natural Leadership Qualities (00:15:06)  Kim discusses how leadership can be innate and the importance of finding the right roles for individuals.  Rewarding Initiative (00:15:37)  Brian concludes by stressing the need to reward those who demonstrate leadership to prevent them from leaving. Understanding People Problems (00:15:43)  Discussion on the four people problems and identifying the worst issue in team dynamics. Right Person, Right Seat (00:16:10)  Emphasis on the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent in the right roles to prevent disengagement. Mentorship and Growth (00:16:58)  The necessity of coaching and mentoring employees as they transition into new roles and responsibilities. Allowing Mistakes in Growth (00:17:55)  The importance of permitting team members to make mistakes as a part of their learning process. Consequences of Punishing Mistakes (00:19:05)  Discussion on the negative impact of punishing employees for mistakes, leading to a culture of fear. Learning from Experience (00:20:04)  Personal anecdotes highlighting the value of learning from mistakes and the role of mentorship in that process. The Importance of Leadership Recognition (00:23:01)  Encouragement to recognize and support leaders within the organization to foster growth and leadership. Stealing Leadership (00:23:56)  Exploration of the concept of "stealing leadership" and its implications for organizational growth. Appreciating Team Efforts (00:25:02)  The significance of acknowledging team members' contributions to maintain morale and encourage leadership. Closing Remarks and Future Topics (00:25:24)  Wrap-up of the episode and a preview of the next topic related to the importance of effective team dynamics.
      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
    • 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.
      I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors.
      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/autorepairmarketingmastermind
      In this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton delves into the critical need for auto repair shops to offer customer financing options, a topic of growing importance in the industry. He begins by addressing the pressing challenges that many auto repair shops face today, such as low car counts and declining repair orders. These issues can significantly impact a shop's bottom line, making it essential for shop owners to find innovative solutions to attract and retain customers.
      Chris emphasizes that offering multiple financing options can be a game-changer for both customers and auto repair shops. For customers, financing provides a way to manage unexpected repair costs without straining their budgets. This is particularly important in situations where a sudden car breakdown can lead to financial stress. By providing flexible payment solutions, shops can help alleviate this burden, making it easier for customers to approve necessary repairs.
      Throughout the episode, Chris shares valuable insights on various financing providers available in the market. He discusses the pros and cons of each, helping shop owners make informed decisions about which providers might best suit their needs and those of their customers. Chris also highlights the benefits of financing for auto repair shops, such as increased sales, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced customer loyalty.
      Furthermore, Chris offers practical strategies for effectively communicating financing options to customers. He stresses the importance of clear and transparent communication, ensuring that customers fully understand their financing choices and the terms involved. By doing so, shops can build trust and foster long-term relationships with their clientele.
      The episode also features a sponsorship mention for Shop Marketing Pros, a marketing company specializing in services for auto repair shops. Shop Marketing Pros is recognized for its expertise in helping shops enhance their marketing efforts, attract more customers, and ultimately grow their businesses. Their sponsorship underscores the importance of strategic marketing in conjunction with offering financing options, as both elements are crucial for the success of modern auto repair shops.


      Introduction to Financing (00:01:26)
      Discussion on the importance of financing options for customers in auto repair shops.
      Current Challenges in Auto Repair (00:02:38)
      Overview of low car counts and declining average repair orders affecting repair shops.
      Importance of Customer Financing (00:03:43)
      Financing options are essential for building consumer trust and increasing average repair orders.
      Unexpected Expenses and Financing Solutions (00:04:58)
      Highlighting how financing helps customers manage unexpected repair costs effectively.
      Types of Financing Options (00:06:10)
      Introduction to various financing providers and their benefits for customers and shops.
      Making Financing Accessible (00:08:17)
      Strategies for simplifying the financing process and making it more accessible to customers.
      Communicating Financing Options (00:09:27)
      Importance of consistently informing customers about financing options at every touchpoint.
      Benefits of Offering Financing (00:12:50)
      Discussing how financing increases average repair orders and customer retention.
      Call to Action for Shops (00:13:56)
      Encouragement for shops to start offering and promoting financing options to enhance customer relationships.
      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


  • Similar Tagged Content

  • Our Sponsors

×
×
  • Create New...