Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz

Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz

Weekly inspiration from automotive service business coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. www.autoshopcoaching.com Run Your Shop. Don't Let It Run You.

  1. “Finish Line Focus: Top Tactics for Wrapping Up 2024 and Charging into 2025” [E191]

    5 DAYS AGO

    “Finish Line Focus: Top Tactics for Wrapping Up 2024 and Charging into 2025” [E191]

    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," host Coach Chris Cotton offers auto repair shop owners a wealth of valuable insights aimed at enhancing their businesses. He begins by emphasizing the critical importance of conducting thorough repair order audits. These audits are essential for ensuring accurate record-keeping, which in turn fosters customer trust and satisfaction. By maintaining precise records, shop owners can avoid potential disputes and demonstrate transparency to their clients. Chris then shifts the focus to improving service advisor phone interactions. He underscores the significance of active listening and empathy in these exchanges. By truly understanding and addressing customer concerns, service advisors can enhance the overall customer experience, leading to increased loyalty and repeat business. As the year draws to a close, Chris provides strategic advice on finishing 2024 strong. He encourages shop owners to maintain their momentum and begin planning for 2025 with clear, measurable goals. By setting specific objectives, businesses can chart a course for sustained growth and success in the coming year. Throughout the episode, Chris highlights the significance of cultivating a positive work culture. He explains how a supportive and motivating environment can lead to increased employee satisfaction and productivity. Additionally, he discusses the numerous benefits of coaching, which can provide shop owners with the guidance and support needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. The episode concludes with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the listeners for their continued support. Chris also extends his thanks to the episode's sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros, for their partnership and contribution to the show's success. Election Update (00:02:07) Discussion on the recent elections and its impact on the business environment. Importance of Repair Order Audits (00:03:08) Emphasis on maintaining accurate records and conducting repair order audits for business health. Customer Experience and Transparency (00:04:10) The need for transparency with customers and sharing inspection results to build trust. Technician Productivity Issues (00:05:15) Challenges with ticket assignments affecting technician productivity and customer service. Service Advisor Phone Calls (00:07:31) The significance of mastering service advisor phone calls for customer relationships. Finishing Strong in 2024 (00:09:47) Encouragement to maintain momentum and finish the year strong despite holiday distractions. Planning for 2025 (00:11:55) Advice on setting goals and priorities for the upcoming year to ensure proactive growth. Measuring Success (00:12:55) The importance of setting measurable goals and tracking progress for accountability. Closing Remarks (00:14:03) Final thoughts on support for shop owners and the importance of a positive mindset moving forward. Connect with...

    13 min
  2. Ghosting:  The Silent Killer of Auto Repair Hiring Success [E190]

    11 NOV

    Ghosting: The Silent Killer of Auto Repair Hiring Success [E190]

    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...

    11 min
  3. How Will the 2024 Presidential Election Impact Auto Repair Shop Owners? [E189]

    4 NOV

    How Will the 2024 Presidential Election Impact Auto Repair Shop Owners? [E189]

    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 delves into the potential impact of the 2024 presidential election on auto repair shop owners, offering a comprehensive analysis of the key issues that could shape the industry's future. He begins by examining the implications of small business support policies, highlighting how different candidates' approaches could influence access to funding, tax incentives, and overall business growth opportunities. Coach Chris then shifts focus to workforce development, emphasizing the importance of training programs and educational initiatives that could be introduced or expanded depending on the election results. He stresses that a skilled workforce is crucial for shop owners to remain competitive and meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry. Infrastructure spending is another critical topic discussed, as Coach Chris outlines how increased investment in roads, bridges, and transportation networks could lead to more business for repair shops due to higher vehicle usage. He also touches on the potential for regulatory changes, noting that shifts in environmental and safety regulations could affect shop operations and compliance requirements. The discussion moves to minimum wage and labor laws, where Coach Chris analyzes how potential changes could impact labor costs and staffing strategies. He advises shop owners to stay informed about legislative developments and consider proactive measures to manage payroll expenses effectively. Supply chain challenges are also on the agenda, with Coach Chris exploring how global economic policies and trade agreements resulting from the election could affect parts availability and pricing. He encourages shop owners to build strong relationships with suppliers and consider diversifying their sourcing strategies to mitigate risks. Throughout the episode, Coach Chris emphasizes the importance of adaptability, urging shop owners to prepare for potential changes by reviewing their operations, budgeting for increased costs, and focusing on marketing efforts to attract and retain customers. He reassures listeners that maintaining strong customer relationships and operational efficiency will be key to navigating the evolving economic landscape, regardless of the election outcome. By staying informed and proactive, auto repair shop owners can position themselves for success in a dynamic and uncertain future. Election Discussion Begins (00:01:11) Chris highlights the importance of the upcoming 2024 presidential election for auto repair shop owners. Pros and Cons of the Election (00:02:13) A breakdown of potential advantages and disadvantages for auto repair businesses due to the election. Support for Small Businesses (00:03:17) Discussion on potential small business tax credits and health insurance reforms from candidates. Workforce Development Challenges (00:03:17) Focus on addressing the tech shortage through vocational training initiatives for the auto repair industry. Infrastructure Spending Impact (00:03:17) How increased infrastructure spending...

    11 min
  4. Talking Shop with Chris Cotton [E142] - Business By The Numbers

    31 OCT · BONUS

    Talking Shop with Chris Cotton [E142] - Business By The Numbers

    Chris Cotton of Autofix Shop Coaching returns to share his journey from coaching to becoming a shop owner at Firestone of Durango. In this episode, Chris dives deep into the challenges of purchasing a shop, revamping it with new technology, and ensuring a seamless operation while being an absentee owner. Discover how he turned around a business and the valuable lessons he learned along the way. Chris shares his experience of buying and managing a shop while remaining a hands-off owner.The importance of employee retention during transitions.Key insights into increasing shop profitability through technology and operational efficiency.How to negotiate and finance a business purchase for maximum benefit.Why consistent customer communication is crucial for shop success. 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: podcast@paarmelis.com Download a Copy of My Books Here: Wrenches to Write-OffsYour 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. Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. 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...

    54 min
  5. You Can't Miss What You Haven't Experienced: The Secret to Crushing Your Competition in Auto Repair [E188]

    28 OCT

    You Can't Miss What You Haven't Experienced: The Secret to Crushing Your Competition in Auto Repair [E188]

    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 delves into enhancing customer experience in the auto repair industry. He underscores that many customers have never encountered exceptional service, presenting a unique opportunity for shops to stand out. Chris shares practical tips for creating memorable interactions, emphasizing communication, trust, and personal connections. He advises making every touchpoint memorable, under-promising and over-delivering, and building trust through transparency. Chris begins by discussing the importance of first impressions. He suggests that the initial phone call or visit to the shop sets the tone for the entire customer experience. He recommends training staff to greet customers warmly, listen attentively to their concerns, and provide clear, concise information about the services offered. By doing so, shops can immediately establish a positive rapport with their clients. Next, Chris highlights the significance of ongoing communication. He advises shop owners to keep customers informed throughout the repair process, providing updates on the status of their vehicle and any unexpected issues that arise. This proactive approach not only keeps customers in the loop but also demonstrates the shop's commitment to transparency and honesty. Chris also emphasizes the power of personal connections. He encourages shop owners to take the time to get to know their customers, remembering their names, preferences, and previous interactions. This personalized approach can make customers feel valued and appreciated, fostering loyalty and repeat business. In addition to these interpersonal strategies, Chris discusses the importance of creating a comfortable and welcoming shop environment. He suggests investing in a clean, well-organized waiting area with amenities such as Wi-Fi, refreshments, and reading materials. A pleasant atmosphere can make the wait time more enjoyable and leave a lasting positive impression. Sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, the episode highlights the importance of marketing in attracting and retaining customers. Chris advises shop owners to leverage digital marketing tools, such as social media and email campaigns, to showcase their exceptional service and engage with their audience. He also recommends soliciting and showcasing customer reviews and testimonials to build credibility and trust. The episode concludes with Chris encouraging shop owners to transform their services into unforgettable experiences. He reminds them that in an industry where exceptional service is rare, going above and beyond can set their shop apart from the competition. By focusing on communication, trust, personal connections, and a welcoming environment, auto repair shops can create loyal customers who return time and time again. Introduction to Supercharging Your Auto Repair Business (00:00:05) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on enhancing auto repair business strategies. The Concept of Customer Experience (00:01:01) Discussing the importance of customer experience in retaining clients and outshining competitors. Understanding Customer Loyalty (00:02:10) Exploring

    8 min
  6. Project Alpha:  The Acquisition  of a Hidden Gem [E187]

    21 OCT

    Project Alpha: The Acquisition of a Hidden Gem [E187]

    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," host Chris Cotton delves deep into his transformative journey of acquiring and revitalizing an auto repair shop, aptly named "Project Alpha." Chris begins by recounting the initial stages of the acquisition, where he meticulously navigated the complexities of negotiating a fair purchase price. He shares insights into the due diligence process, highlighting the importance of thoroughly assessing the shop's financial health, customer base, and market position. Chris candidly discusses the myriad challenges he encountered, such as overcoming deeply ingrained outdated practices that were hindering the shop's growth. He emphasizes the critical role of understanding business financials, not just from a surface level but diving into detailed profit and loss statements, cash flow analysis, and identifying areas of financial leakage. Recognizing the true value of the business was pivotal, and Chris explains how he assessed both tangible and intangible assets to ensure he was making a sound investment. One of the key strategies Chris employed was leveraging the strengths of the existing staff. He talks about the importance of conducting thorough evaluations to understand each team member's skills and potential. By aligning their strengths with the shop's goals, Chris was able to foster a more cohesive and motivated workforce. Chris also shares the innovative changes he implemented to breathe new life into Project Alpha. He discusses the significance of enhancing marketing efforts, from revamping the shop's online presence to engaging with the local community through targeted campaigns. Adopting new technologies played a crucial role in streamlining operations and improving customer service. Chris provides examples of specific tools and software that helped increase efficiency and track performance metrics more effectively. Throughout the episode, Chris offers valuable lessons and practical tips for current and aspiring auto repair shop owners. He underscores the importance of continuous learning and staying adaptable in an ever-evolving industry. By sharing his experiences and the strategies that led to Project Alpha's success, Chris aims to inspire and equip listeners with the knowledge and confidence to achieve business growth and effective management in their own ventures. Introduction to Project Alpha (00:00:05) Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and the journey of acquiring an auto repair shop named Project Alpha. Finding Project Alpha (00:01:04) Chris shares how he discovered the auto repair shop and its potential for revitalization. Valuation Challenges (00:02:07) Discussion on the shop's outdated processes and the owner's unrealistic valuation of the business. Negotiation Stalemate (00:03:16) Chris recounts his attempts to negotiate a fair price and the owner's resistance to change. Understanding True Value (00:04:16) Exploration of the importance of recognizing the actual worth of the business and its inventory. Sticking to Your Guns (00:06:19) Chris emphasizes the importance of knowing your

    16 min
  7. Coached People  always Outperform  Uncoached People.  That’s a fact [E186]

    14 OCT

    Coached People always Outperform Uncoached People. That’s a fact [E186]

    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 deep into the crucial role of coaching in the auto repair industry. He discusses how coaching enhances performance, accountability, and long-term success for shop owners, service advisors, and technicians. Chris shares insights on the benefits of having a coach, including improved business strategies, goal-setting, and overcoming challenges. He emphasizes that coaching is a valuable investment, leading to significant returns and sustainable growth. Throughout the episode, Chris elaborates on the transformative power of coaching, illustrating how it can turn struggling shops into thriving businesses. He provides real-world examples of shops that have seen remarkable improvements in efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability after implementing coaching strategies. Chris also touches on the importance of personalized coaching, tailored to address the unique needs and goals of each shop, ensuring that the guidance provided is relevant and actionable. Moreover, Chris highlights the role of coaching in fostering a positive work culture. He explains how regular coaching sessions can boost team morale, enhance communication, and create a cohesive environment where everyone is aligned with the shop's vision and objectives. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, coaching helps shops stay ahead of industry trends and adapt to changing market demands. The episode encourages listeners to consider coaching to elevate their business and achieve excellence in the competitive auto repair landscape. Chris underscores that investing in coaching is about immediate gains and building a foundation for sustained success. He invites shop owners to take the first step towards transformation by exploring coaching opportunities, ultimately leading to a more prosperous and resilient business. Introduction and Podcast Overview (00:00:22) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on insights for auto repair businesses. Coaching Importance (00:01:16) Discussion on the significance of coaching for business owners and its impact on performance. Performance Through Coaching (00:02:23) Coached individuals consistently outperform those who go it alone, highlighting the value of accountability. The Role of Accountability (00:03:31) Accountability is crucial for achieving goals, ensuring follow-through on commitments. Perspective in Coaching (00:04:27) Coaching provides perspective, helping clients see the bigger picture amidst daily challenges. Long-Term Investment in Coaching (00:06:22) Coaching is a process that requires time, focusing on sustainable change rather than quick fixes. Commitment to Improvement (00:07:18) Successful coaching fosters a commitment to continuous improvement and resilience in tough times. Conclusion and Call to Action (00:08:20) Encouragement for listeners to embrace coaching for personal and business growth, emphasizing the importance of progress. Connect with Chris: chris@autofixsos.com Phone:...

    8 min

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Weekly inspiration from automotive service business coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. www.autoshopcoaching.com Run Your Shop. Don't Let It Run You.

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