Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz

Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz Podcast

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. Coaching is Teaching [E183]

    3 DAYS AGO

    Coaching is Teaching [E183]

    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 explores the transformative power of coaching as a form of teaching and development. He highlights that effective coaching is about empowering individuals to find their own solutions, fostering continuous learning, and building long-term capabilities. Drawing insights from leadership expert John Maxwell, Chris contrasts coaching with managing, emphasizing the importance of guiding rather than dictating. The episode also acknowledges Shop Marketing Pros, the sponsor, which offers specialized marketing services for auto repair shops. Introduction to Coaching (00:00:06) Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on coaching within the auto repair industry. Sponsorship Acknowledgment (00:01:05) Chris thanks Shop Marketing Pros for sponsoring the episode, highlighting their unique marketing strategies. Coaching as Teaching (00:01:05) Discussion on how coaching transcends mere direction, emphasizing the importance of teaching and developing others. The Heart of Coaching (00:02:16) Coaching is about empowering others to find their own solutions rather than simply providing answers. Coaching vs. Managing (00:03:31) Clarifying the distinction between coaching and managing, focusing on long-term development over task oversight. The Teacher's Mindset in Coaching (00:04:40) Exploring key elements of a coach's mindset, including guiding, patience, continuous feedback, and creating a safe environment. Building Relationships in Coaching (00:06:52) Emphasizing the importance of trust and genuine care in the coaching relationship for effective teaching. Long-Term Impact of Teaching (00:07:59) Teaching creates lasting change, equipping individuals to handle future challenges rather than just solving immediate problems. Practical Coaching Techniques (00:09:06) Suggestions for effective coaching, including asking questions, offering tools, mentoring, and celebrating learning. Conclusion on Coaching (00:10:12) Reiterating the importance of viewing coaching as teaching, influencing lives beyond immediate outcomes. Connect with Chris: chris@autofixsos.com 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

    11 min
  2. Are You to Focused at What's Ahead That You Forget Your Past? [E182]

    16 SEPT

    Are You to Focused at What's Ahead That You Forget Your Past? [E182]

    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 deep into the intricate balance between focusing on future goals and reflecting on past experiences. He emphasizes the critical importance of learning from both successes and failures to inform future decisions, ensuring that each step forward is grounded in wisdom gained from previous endeavors. Coach Chris offers a wealth of practical strategies to achieve this balance, such as scheduling dedicated reflection time, maintaining a detailed journal to track progress and insights, and celebrating milestones to acknowledge and appreciate growth. He warns against the dangers of becoming too fixated on future ambitions, which can lead to the neglect of valuable lessons from the past, potentially repeating mistakes or missing out on crucial learning opportunities. The episode also includes a special shout-out to the sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros, which specializes in providing innovative marketing strategies tailored specifically for auto repair shops, helping them to thrive in a competitive market. Introduction to the Episode (00:00:08) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and highlights its focus on business insights and industry updates. Shout-out to Sponsor (00:01:08) Recognition of Shop Marketing Pros for their tailored marketing strategies for auto repair shops. Focus on the Future vs. Reflection on the Past (00:01:08) Discussion on the importance of balancing future goals with reflection on past experiences. The Importance of the Past (00:02:09) Exploration of how past experiences shape current knowledge and decision-making. Reasons to Reflect on the Past (00:03:12) Outlining key reasons for reflection: context, lessons from failure, celebrating progress, and maintaining perspective. The Journey vs. Destination (00:04:16) Emphasis on appreciating the journey rather than solely focusing on future achievements. Balancing Forward Momentum with Reflection (00:05:25) Practical strategies for integrating reflection into business practices. Risks of Forgetting the Past (00:06:37) Consequences of focusing only on the future, including loss of core values and lessons. Finding Balance (00:07:56) Encouragement to honor past experiences while pursuing future ambitions for a grounded approach. Connect with Chris: chris@autofixsos.com Phone: 940.400.1008 www.autoshopcoaching.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae #autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement...

    9 min
  3. Do You Rise to the Occasion or Wither Under the Weight of Adversity? [E181]

    9 SEPT

    Do You Rise to the Occasion or Wither Under the Weight of Adversity? [E181]

    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 discusses overcoming adversity, especially in the auto repair business. He emphasizes the importance of mindset, contrasting a fixed mindset with a growth mindset. Coach Chris offers practical tips for building resilience, such as shifting perspectives, controlling responses, leveraging support systems, cultivating adaptability, and practicing self-reflection. He shares personal experiences to illustrate how adversity can be a transformative experience. Sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, the episode highlights the role of effective marketing in business success. Overall, it serves as a motivational guide for navigating and thriving through life's challenges. Introduction to Adversity (00:00:04) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the theme of overcoming adversity in personal and professional life. Understanding Adversity (00:01:03) Discussion on the inevitability of adversity and its various forms in life and business. Mindset Matters (00:02:12) Exploration of fixed vs. growth mindsets and their impact on handling challenges. Building Resilience (00:03:30) Key strategies for cultivating resilience during tough times and learning from adversity. Shifting Perspectives (00:04:39) Importance of viewing adversity as part of personal growth and embracing discomfort. Control Your Response (00:05:51) Emphasizing the need to focus on controllable aspects during adversities. Leverage Support Systems (00:06:08) Encouragement to seek help from mentors and loved ones when facing challenges. Cultivating Adaptability (00:06:30) The necessity of being flexible in thinking and actions to thrive through adversity. Self-Reflection (00:07:08) Encouraging regular self-reflection on lessons learned from past adversities. Personal Experience (00:07:30) Coach Chris shares his journey of transitioning from shop owner to coach amidst challenges. Pressure and Growth (00:08:08) Discussion on how adversity shapes character and fosters personal and professional growth. Key Takeaways (00:08:30) Practical advice on acknowledging, acting, embracing uncertainty, and reflecting on adversity. Final Thoughts (00:09:10) Encouragement to choose resilience and transformation in the face of life's challenges. Connect with Chris: chris@autofixsos.com 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...

    10 min
  4. Why Did the Auto Shop Owner Cross the Road? To Get to Profit First! [E180]

    2 SEPT

    Why Did the Auto Shop Owner Cross the Road? To Get to Profit First! [E180]

    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, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching delves into a range of strategies designed to help auto repair shop owners elevate their business operations through the implementation of the "Profit First" methodology. This approach is centered around the critical aspects of cash flow management, profitability enhancement, and the adoption of effective financial practices. Chris underscores the significance of establishing separate accounts specifically for profit, taxes, and operating expenses to ensure a clear and organized financial structure. He also highlights the necessity of having supportive financial partners, such as banks and accountants, who can provide valuable guidance and support. Furthermore, Chris encourages shop owners to take proactive steps towards improving their financial health by engaging with educational resources, such as watching a webinar or seeking additional guidance tailored to their specific needs. This episode is proudly sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, a company dedicated to providing specialized marketing strategies aimed at boosting the visibility and success of auto repair shops. Through their sponsorship, Shop Marketing Pros underscores their commitment to supporting the growth and development of businesses within the auto repair industry. Introduction to the Episode (00:00:04) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on auto repair business strategies. Importance of Profit First (00:01:01) Chris discusses the significance of adopting the Profit First mentality for auto repair businesses. Webinar Promotion (00:02:20) Information about an upcoming webinar on implementing the Profit First system is provided. Understanding Cash Flow (00:03:24) The necessity of managing cash flow for successful auto repair operations is emphasized. Challenges with Traditional Accounting (00:04:35) Critique of traditional accounting methods and their inadequacy for auto repair shops. Profit First Methodology Explained (00:05:46) Overview of the Profit First approach and its application in the auto repair industry. Setting Up Separate Accounts (00:06:58) The importance of establishing separate accounts for profit, taxes, and expenses is discussed. Bank and Accountant Collaboration (00:08:02) Challenges in getting banks and accountants on board with the Profit First system are explored. Incorporating Dave Ramsey's Principles (00:10:16) Integration of financial control principles from Dave Ramsey is highlighted for better financial management. Results of Implementing the System (00:11:27) The positive outcomes of using the auto shop profits and cash flow system are outlined. Call to Action (00:14:44) Chris encourages listeners to take proactive steps in managing their shop's finances...

    14 min
  5. Changing Pastures: Practical Tips for Auto Repair Pros Seeking  Growth and Fulfillment [E179]

    26 AUG

    Changing Pastures: Practical Tips for Auto Repair Pros Seeking Growth and Fulfillment [E179]

    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 explores the metaphor of changing pastures to symbolize personal and professional growth. He addresses the common belief that "the grass is always greener on the other side" and emphasizes the importance of recognizing when change is necessary. Chris offers practical tips for self-assessment, investing in personal growth, eliminating negativity, staying committed to goals, and being patient with the process. Aimed at auto repair shop owners and professionals, the episode encourages taking control of one's circumstances for improvement. The episode is sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros. Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:08) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the episode and its focus on business insights for auto repair professionals. The Grass is Always Greener (00:01:10) Chris shares a metaphor about changing pastures for personal and professional growth, inspired by a meme. Recognizing the Need for Change (00:02:16) He discusses the common feeling of envy towards others' situations and the importance of assessing one's own life. Challenges and Perceptions (00:03:18) Chris reflects on how negativity can distort our view of others' success, leading to feelings of being stuck. When to Change Pastures (00:04:22) He emphasizes recognizing when it's time to shift environments for better personal and professional growth. Tips for Cultivating Growth (00:05:29) Chris provides actionable advice on assessing situations, investing in oneself, and making meaningful changes. Conclusion and Encouragement (00:07:35) He wraps up with a reminder that growth takes time and encourages listeners to embrace necessary changes for fulfillment. Connect with Chris: chris@autofixsos.com 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

    7 min
  6. How Can Absentee Owners Transform Struggling Auto Repair Shops into Success Stories? [E178]

    19 AUG

    How Can Absentee Owners Transform Struggling Auto Repair Shops into Success Stories? [E178]

    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 is joined by guest Coach Mike for an in-depth discussion on the remarkable transformation of "Project X," an absentee-owned auto repair shop. Coach Mike provides a comprehensive overview of the myriad challenges faced in managing the shop, particularly highlighting the critical need for robust on-site leadership and stringent accountability measures. Throughout the episode, Coach Mike elaborates on the key strategies that were instrumental in turning the shop around. One of the primary steps taken was the recruitment of highly skilled technicians, which was essential for delivering quality service and boosting customer satisfaction. Additionally, the shop transitioned to using TeckMetric software, a move that significantly enhanced performance tracking and operational efficiency. A major focus was also placed on fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement among the staff. This involved regular training sessions, workshops, and encouraging a mindset geared towards growth and excellence. As a result of these concerted efforts, the shop's revenue saw a threefold increase, and the average repair orders experienced a substantial rise. The episode underscores the importance of community engagement, illustrating how building strong relationships with local customers and businesses can drive sustained success. It also highlights the necessity of continuous improvement, advocating for ongoing assessment and refinement of processes and strategies. Furthermore, effective communication between owners and managers is emphasized as a cornerstone for achieving long-term success. The dialogue between Coach Chris and Coach Mike provides valuable insights into how transparent and consistent communication can bridge gaps, align goals, and ensure that everyone is working towards a common objective. Overall, this episode of "The Weekly Blitz" offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for anyone looking to transform their business, emphasizing that with the right leadership, tools, and culture, significant improvements and success are well within reach. Introduction and Overview (00:00:09) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the episode and discusses the podcast's focus on auto repair business innovation. Guest Introduction (00:01:03) Coach Chris brings in Coach Mike to discuss the transformation of an absentee-owned auto repair shop, "Project X." Absentee Owner Challenges (00:02:13) Coach Mike outlines the difficulties in managing a shop with an absentee owner and the need for strong leadership. Starting Point and Initial Changes (00:03:46) Discussion on the initial steps taken to improve the struggling shop, focusing on hiring experienced staff. Importance of Tech Metric (00:04:57) Coach Mike emphasizes the significance of using Tech Metric for tracking business performance remotely. Training on Estimates and Inspections (00:06:09) Coach Mike describes the training provided to staff on creating accurate estimates and conducting thorough...

    18 min
  7. Navigate and Elevate Your Auto Repair Shop! [E177]

    12 AUG

    Navigate and Elevate Your Auto Repair Shop! [E177]

    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 focuses on enhancing auto repair shop performance, highlighting the crucial role of service advisors in the estimation process. He stresses the importance of advisors not projecting their financial limitations onto customers, ensuring all necessary repairs are transparently presented. Key points include understanding customer needs, providing comprehensive estimates, building trust, and improving average repair orders. Coach Chris advocates for regular training, consistent processes, and leveraging technology like digital vehicle inspections. Sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, the episode underscores the need for continuous improvement and effective communication to boost shop profitability. Introduction to the Episode (00:00:09) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on auto repair business improvement. Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:01:13) Thanks to Shop Marketing Pros for their tailored marketing services for auto repair shops. Navigating Challenges in Auto Repair (00:01:13) Discussion on the current challenges faced by auto repair shops and the need for improvement. Service Advisor Issues (00:02:47) Exploration of problems arising from service advisors skipping steps in the estimation process. Selling with Their Own Wallet (00:04:05) Emphasis on service advisors not projecting their financial limitations onto customers. Importance of Comprehensive Estimates (00:05:15) Highlighting the need for transparent presentation of all necessary repairs and services. Role of Technicians and Service Advisors (00:06:31) Clarification on the responsibilities of technicians and service advisors in the estimation process. Wraparound Services Explained (00:07:50) Definition and importance of additional services that enhance primary repairs. Mileage-Based Maintenance Recommendations (00:09:13) Discussion on the significance of adhering to mileage-based maintenance schedules. Impact of Average Estimates on Repair Orders (00:10:28) Analysis of how average estimates influence average repair order metrics. Building Customer Trust (00:11:45) The relationship between thorough estimates and customer trust in the service. Revenue Growth Through Higher Estimates (00:12:56) Linking accurate estimates to increased revenue and profitability for auto repair shops. Creating a Perfect Estimate Process (00:14:04) Steps to establish a clear and effective estimation process for service advisors. Customer Interaction in the Estimation Process (00:14:04) Importance of warm customer greetings and accurate documentation of concerns. Digital Vehicle Inspection (00:14:04) Advocating for the use of digital vehicle inspections over paper methods. Preparing

    18 min
  8. Empower Your Employees: Implementing the 131 Rule for Better Problem Solving in Auto Repair Shops [E176]

    5 AUG

    Empower Your Employees: Implementing the 131 Rule for Better Problem Solving in Auto Repair Shops [E176]

    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 introduces the "131 Rule," a strategic framework designed to empower auto repair shop employees to become proactive problem solvers. The rule encourages staff to identify one challenge, propose three potential solutions, and recommend the best option among them. This approach not only fosters a culture of critical thinking and independence but also significantly enhances decision-making and customer service within the shop. By implementing the "131 Rule," employees are trained to take ownership of issues, analyze various solutions, and make informed decisions that benefit both the business and its customers. Additionally, the episode delves into the broader implications of adopting such a strategy, including increased employee engagement, improved operational efficiency, and a more collaborative work environment. Coach Chris Cotton shares real-life examples and success stories from shops that have successfully integrated the "131 Rule" into their daily operations, illustrating the tangible benefits of this approach. The episode also highlights other insightful podcasts available on the Aftermarket Radio Network, providing listeners with a wealth of resources to further enhance their knowledge and skills in the automotive repair industry. Furthermore, it promotes Shop Marketing Pros, the episode's sponsor, emphasizing their role in helping auto repair shops grow their businesses through effective marketing strategies. Listeners are encouraged to tune in to "The Weekly Blitz" for more expert advice and practical tips from industry leaders like Coach Chris Cotton, ensuring they stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of auto repair. Introduction to Supercharging Your Auto Repair Business (00:00:03) Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its purpose for auto repair shop owners. Promotion of Other Podcasts (00:00:45) Encouragement to check out other podcasts on the Aftermarket Radio Network, including a new podcaster, Craig O'Neill. Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:01:02) Coach Cotton thanks Shop Marketing Pros for sponsoring the episode and highlights their unique marketing strategies. Introduction to the 131 Rule (00:01:32) Discussion on the need for employees to become problem solvers, introducing the concept of the 131 Rule. Explanation of the 131 Rule (00:02:13) Details on how the 131 Rule encourages critical thinking and solution development among employees. Importance of the 131 Rule (00:03:32) Explains how the 131 Rule shifts problem-solving responsibility to the team, fostering innovation and efficiency. Implementation Steps for the 131 Rule (00:04:38) Practical steps on how to communicate and train the team on applying the 131 Rule effectively. Creating a Supportive Environment (00:05:49) Emphasizes the importance of cultivating a culture that values independent thinking and celebrates successes. Benefits of the 131 Rule for Owners (00:06:38) Discusses...

    9 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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