• Watch Full Video Episode

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Shop Owners' Regrets (00:03:16)
• Impact of Regret on Decision-Making (00:04:08)
• Identifying Regret's Root Causes (00:06:49)
• Attribution of Success and Failure (00:10:27)
• Optimism vs. Pessimism (00:13:00)
• The Pony in the Manure Story (00:15:21)
• Controlling What You Can (00:16:25)
• Working on Controllables (00:17:19)
• Problem Solving Mindset (00:18:04)
• Importance of Thought Partners (00:19:17)
• Loneliness at the Top (00:20:15)
• The Role of Coaches (00:23:16)
• Community Support (00:25:12)
• Data-Driven Reflection (00:26:06)
• Regret and Learning (00:27:51)
• OODA Loop in Decision Making (00:31:42)
• Fixing Before Regrets Grow (00:34:06)
• Regret in Leadership (00:34:46)
• Observing Mistakes (00:35:43)
• Creating a Culture (00:36:26)
• Learning from Regret (00:37:08)
• Activity as Antidote (00:38:28)
• Transferring Skills (00:39:28)
• Importance of Laughter (00:44:14)
• Gratitude and Future Plans (00:45:11)

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Tom's Recent Peer Review (00:02:57)
• Preparation for Peer Review (00:03:46)
• Impact of Coaching (00:04:01)
• Team Involvement in Peer Review (00:06:04)
• Deep Dive into Business Improvements (00:07:08)
• Value of Team Preparation (00:07:32)
• Lessons for Other Shop Owners (00:08:32)
• Importance of Cleanliness (00:09:24)
• Engaging Staff in Improvement (00:10:18)
• Accountability in Peer Reviews (00:11:26)
• Mentorship and Growth (00:12:38)
• Overcoming Ego in Business (00:16:36)
• Peer Review Insights (00:17:58)
• Phone Call Evaluation (00:18:16)
• Training Opportunities Identified (00:19:02)
• Post-Call Team Meeting (00:19:48)
• Ongoing Front-End Training (00:20:09)
• Back Shop Leadership (00:20:37)
• Team Culture and Family Atmosphere (00:21:34)
• Personal Connections in the Workplace (00:22:25)
• Improvements in Facility (00:23:16)
• Motivating Others Through Sharing (00:24:05)
• Value of Self-Assessment (00:24:20)
• Surrounding Yourself with Excellence (00:25:55)

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Importance of Numbers in Business (00:03:03)
• Understanding the 'Why' (00:03:40)
• Motivation for Entering Automotive (00:04:49)
• Distinction Between Product and Business (00:05:32)
• Customer Experience as a Priority (00:06:44)
• Understanding Financial Models (00:08:02)
• Linking Goals to Actions (00:10:23)
• Identifying Key Metrics (00:12:11)
• Pricing Challenges (00:10:07)
• Push vs. Pull Concept (00:14:29)
• Revenue Problems Analysis (00:15:31)
• Conclusion on Data Utilization (00:16:30)
• Coaching and Discovery in Business (00:19:39)
• Creating Action Plans for Clients (00:20:19)
• Understanding Customer Experience (00:21:24)
• Flat Rate Pay Discussion (00:23:17)
• Entrepreneurship vs. Shop Ownership (00:24:18)
• Lessons from Selling a Business (00:27:24)
• Decision-Making Towards Business Success (00:29:33)
• Creating Incentive Plans for Employees (00:32:30)
• Combination of Individual and Team Incentives (00:34:31)

Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS, and Promotive

A critical topic for business owners: how much you should pay yourself as an S-corporation owner. This episode clears up common misconceptions around payroll, distributions, and tax savings strategies. Whether you're a small business owner or a shop manager, understanding these financial nuances is crucial for maintaining profitability and compliance.

Key Points:

- Clarification of the S-corporation owner's dual roles as an employee and business owner, and their impact on financial strategy.

- Differences between payroll and distributions and how they affect tax liabilities.

- Why overpaying yourself in wages does not save on taxes and the financial consequences of excessive payroll tax burdens.

- The IRS's guidelines on "fair and reasonable salary" for S-corp owners and how to meet this requirement effectively.

- Social Security contributions: strategies for maximizing benefits while minimizing unnecessary tax burdens.

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. 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/

Ready to kick off the year with a marketing plan that keeps your bays full? Join Brian Walker and Caroline Legrand as they dive into easy, actionable strategies to help auto repair shops plan their marketing month-by-month. From practical ways to align your campaigns with community events to leveraging fun, nationally recognized days, you’ll learn how to make your marketing engaging and impactful.

Discover fresh ideas for social media, event hosting, and campaigns that’ll keep your shop top-of-mind all year. Whether it’s winter car care, “new year, new car” resolutions, or creative customer appreciation ideas, this episode is packed with ways to turn small efforts into big wins.

Don’t let January sneak up on you—start planning now!

Tune in to get the tools you need to make 2024 your best marketing year yet.

Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://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)

How To Get In Touch With the Guest

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]

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech

Matt Fanslow welcomes mobile diagnostic technician Rich Falco to explore the intriguing parallels between poker strategies and automotive diagnostics.

Show Notes

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Discussion on Poker (00:01:02)
• Evolution of Poker Strategies (00:02:22)
• Game Theory and Diagnostics (00:04:35)
• Common Misunderstandings (00:12:07)
• Real-World Diagnostic Scenarios (00:13:26)
• Electric Vehicle Training (00:15:46)
• Power Window Diagnosis (00:16:44)
• Poker Predictions (00:18:05)
• Understanding Poker Players (00:19:01)
• Reading Opponents (00:20:14)
• Experience in Diagnostics (00:22:03)
• The Importance of Training (00:23:22)
• Shop Culture Changes (00:26:09)
• Technology in Poker (00:30:21)
• AI and Diagnostics (00:31:08)
• Access to Training Resources (00:32:07)
• Young Technicians' Knowledge (00:33:05)
• Poker vs. Automotive Diagnostics (00:33:24)

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/

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Location Overview (00:00:32)
• Business Acquisition Opportunity (00:01:39)
• Family Values in Business (00:02:32)
• Importance of Coaching (00:04:15)
• Takeaways from Coaching Program (00:07:12)
• Staffing Challenges (00:08:56)
• Changing Recruitment Strategies (00:12:07)
• Texting as a Recruitment Tool (00:13:24)
• Interviewing Process Evolution (00:15:47)
• Compensation Plans as Recruitment Tools (00:19:47)
• Family Involvement in Business (00:22:24)
• Importance of Team Culture (00:23:40)
• Adoption of a Four-Day Work Week (00:25:10)
• Community Engagement Initiatives (00:26:58)
• Empowering Future Generations (00:29:14)
• Women in Trades Advocacy (00:31:36)
• Transitioning to New Systems (00:33:31)
• Realizing 'Okay' Isn't Enough (00:35:06)
• Focus on Financial Metrics (00:35:29)
• Long-Term Goals and Planning (00:36:37)
• Pride in Achievements (00:37:18)
• Encouragement to Pursue Passions (00:38:06)
• Building a Support Network (00:39:42)
• Embracing Change (00:40:42)

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/

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 from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching delves into the increasingly prevalent issue of "ghosting" within the auto repair industry's hiring process. Ghosting, a term that describes the sudden cessation of communication by either job applicants or businesses without any prior explanation, has become a significant challenge for both parties involved.

Coach Chris begins by examining the underlying reasons for this trend. On the applicant's side, factors such as receiving multiple job offers, feeling overwhelmed by the job search process, or simply deciding that a particular position is not the right fit can lead to ghosting. From the business perspective, a lack of structured follow-up processes, being inundated with applications, or changes in hiring needs can result in businesses inadvertently ghosting candidates.

The impact of ghosting is profound, affecting both job seekers and business owners. For job seekers, being ghosted by potential employers can lead to feelings of frustration, confusion, and a lack of closure, which can be demoralizing and impact their confidence in the job market. For business owners, ghosting by candidates can disrupt hiring timelines, lead to wasted resources, and create gaps in staffing that affect operations.

To address these challenges, Coach Chris offers several strategies aimed at mitigating the occurrence of ghosting. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication throughout the hiring process. This includes setting expectations from the outset, providing timely updates to candidates, and being transparent about the hiring timeline and decision-making process.

Furthermore, Coach Chris highlights the role of empathy in improving hiring practices. By understanding the pressures and challenges faced by job seekers, businesses can tailor their communication and engagement strategies to be more supportive and considerate. This approach not only reduces the likelihood of ghosting but also enhances the overall candidate experience.

The episode concludes with practical tips for auto repair shop owners to refine their recruitment processes. These include implementing structured follow-up procedures, utilizing technology to manage applications efficiently, and fostering a company culture that values open and honest communication. By adopting these strategies, auto repair shops can improve their hiring outcomes, reduce the frustration caused by ghosting, and build stronger, more reliable teams.

The Rise of Ghosting (00:01:05)

• Discussion on the troubling trend of ghosting in the hiring process and its impacts.

Why Ghosting is Increasing (00:02:16)

• Exploration of the reasons behind the rise of ghosting, including job market dynamics.

Employee Perspective on Ghosting (00:03:16)

• Insights into why job seekers ghost employers, including feeling undervalued and overwhelmed.

Business Owner Perspective on Ghosting (00:05:41)

• Challenges business owners face when candidates ghost them, including time and financial losses.

The Importance of Communication (00:08:03)

• Emphasis on the need for better communication and transparency in the hiring process.

Impact on Business Reputation (00:09:00)

• How consistent ghosting can negatively affect a business's reputation and public image.

Strategies to Reduce Ghosting (00:09:30)

• Suggestions for both parties to improve communication and reduce ghosting occurrences.

Creating a Welcoming Interview Process (00:10:05)

• Advice on how to create a respectful and engaging interview environment for candidates.

Follow Through After Interviews (00:11:05)

• Importance of following through with candidates to maintain professionalism and opportunities.

Conclusion and Acknowledgments (00:12:03)

• Wrap-up of the episode, encouragement for listeners, and thanks to the sponsor.

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

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Comfort (00:00:26)
• Customer (00:01:09)
• Car (00:01:39)
• Conclusion (00:02:17)
• Close (00:03:53)
• Value of a Phone Call (00:04:36)
• Customer Experience Insights (00:05:50)