ASA Is My 'Go-To' Source

Posted 7/13/2011
By Ron Nagy, AAM, Chairman

ASA continues to be the No. 1 source for help. As I write this column I cannot help but be reminded of how ASA has been there to assist me in building my business in every way imaginable. I touched on the people and networking in my last column, but the tangible products are just as strong!

As you look through this copy of AutoInc., you will see many photos of the Washington, D.C., fly-in. This event not only allowed us to meet with our senators and representatives (more than 100 congressional members and staff), but also to participate in many side meetings as well. These meetings included the EPA addressing the 3-ounce cup ruling and various other areas included in the refinish regulation. We also expressed our concerns about the EPA's enforcement in many areas of the country.

We met with specific congressional members about H.R. 164 and the verbiage needed about ensuring that customers have notice as to the type of replacement crash parts being used in a collision repair. There were other topics such as vehicle safety inspection programs, insurance modernization and support for vocational school funding. The key here is, it is imperative that we meet with these congressional members to voice our concerns or frustrations. And sometimes, we need to commend them. Remember, there are more than 100 new congressional members this year. And ASA is The Association with members who make an impact in this way.

But ASA assistance doesn't stop there. You will also see in this issue the management software guide. This guide, along with booth visits at NACE and CARS, is how my brother and I decided which management software to purchase. With so many marketing and sales pitches coming at you from these companies, how do you really know which is best for your needs? This issue spells it out for you in a clear and simple form, with even more data available online.

But wait, there's more ... Angie Wilson and her team in the marketing and communications department also included a great article on compensation and employee benefits. One issue I feel owners and managers are up against is: What can I offer my employees for benefits? Does my compensation plan motivate my employees? Does it lead them to be as productive as possible? Once again ASA has helped me tremendously in this area. And if the article on page 36 doesn't help answer your specific questions, there are many other articles online. Just go to www.AutoInc.org and enter the topic in the search box. There you'll find tons of information at your fingertips - specific to our industry.

So don't just set this publication aside; don't just visit AutoInc.org when you're reminded. Set it up as a "favorite" and stop in weekly - and certainly whenever a business hurdle gets in your way!

In closing, if you haven't registered for ASRW (NACE/CARS), do it now! They have put together a fantastic industry week for service and repair professionals!

Editor's note: Registration is now open for NACE and CARS. Visit www.ASRWevents.com to get started!