I’m being real when I tell you that the transformation needed to go from tech to owner is challenging for most. The main reason is the skill sets needed for each role. Both roles are important in a business. The…
When speaking at industry events, local business groups or even with clients, the one thing I’ve noticed over the years is owners under indexing LEADERSHIP for one or more of the following reasons. Technical Focus: Since most auto shop owners…
When speaking with auto shop owner clients or even local business owners, they tell me stories of how challenging it is to make business decisions at times. In many cases they say they aren’t as confident in their decisions as…
Understanding your financial reports is important for many reasons. Yet even with all the resources available today, many owners don’t understand them to use them to the fullest. Look at financial reports as a type of report card giving you…
Whether you started your business from the ground up or purchased an existing business, most owners start with grit and drive. Willing to do it all and sacrifice their personal life in the beginning for the good of their business.…
Practically all the shop owners I’ve spoken with over the last 24 years told me they planned to have a shop that focused on customers. They were going to be the opposite of the negative and outdated image many have…
I was recently contacted by the CT. Better Business Bureau. They do monthly BBB ‘Trust Talks’ to build awareness around different industries and guide consumers. Yes, there are bad apples in every industry that we need to be made aware…
It’s conference season and many owners are getting ready for it. There's lots you can do to make the most out of an industry conference or training for the best R.O.I. (return on investment) and the best R.O.E. (return on…
You either started your business from scratch or purchased an existing business. Remember the excitement and drive mixed with uncertainty and doubt? The early years are full of grit and drive. Let’s face it, that’s what it takes to learn…
When speaking to owners and managers they tell me they have lots of work. The challenge is getting the work out because they don’t have enough help. They want to grow their team and they can’t find people. Common Issues…
Years ago, when Tony and I opened our transmission shop, I wanted to learn more about the industry. I grew up respecting and admiring the good people in the skilled trades industry. My grandfather, then dad and brother had a…
When speaking or coaching business owners, a common challenge comes up. They are frustrated by the many misconceptions of the industry. Today anyone who can do a search online thinks they’re an expert. These misconceptions pop up when working with…
When I think back to when Tony and I opened our shop in 1999, There were the obvious things we knew we had to do to be successful. We had to be committed to our business and we were willing…
When I think back to when Tony and I opened our automotive shop or my dad had his construction business, we all started with a DIY (Do It Yourself) strategy model and traded time and effort for money. I find it's the…
I enjoy goal setting. I have a lot going on in my businesses and my personal life, so it's important to make the most of my time and effort. sI'm looking forward to a new year, its opportunities, and possibilities.…
I’ve been in the auto industry since 1999 and there are many good things about it. Through associations and community involvement I quickly learned of the many good people in the industry who want to make a difference. I admire…
I've been listening to owners speak of their team or employees for years. There are some common tell-tale signs of how owners/leaders view the people they hire to help them grow their business. Some views are one sided. The people…
Most shops are busy today. Keep in mind many of the reasons are beyond your control. Such as the economy, new vehicle shortages and delays. Many owners are riding the wave of increased business and defining their shops as successful,…
