179 episodes

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.

Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz Aftermarket Radio Network

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 5 Ratings

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.

    Disruptive Insights from Other Industries for Auto Repair Shop Owners [E174]

    Disruptive Insights from Other Industries for Auto Repair Shop Owners [E174]

    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 podcast episode, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching emphasizes the importance of seeking inspiration and innovation outside the auto repair industry. He challenges shop owners to break out of their comfort zones and learn from disruptors in fields like hospitality, retail, healthcare, and fitness. Chris discusses how adopting customer-centric approaches and technologies from these industries can transform auto repair businesses.

    For instance, he highlights how the hospitality industry's focus on exceptional customer service and personalized experiences can be mirrored in auto repair shops to build stronger customer relationships and loyalty. Similarly, he points out how retail's use of data analytics and customer feedback can help auto shops better understand their clients' needs and preferences, leading to more tailored services and improved satisfaction.

    Chris also explores how the healthcare sector's emphasis on transparency and trust can be applied to auto repair, fostering a more open and honest communication channel between mechanics and customers. Additionally, he draws parallels with the fitness industry's use of subscription models and community-building strategies, suggesting that auto repair shops could benefit from implementing similar membership programs to ensure steady revenue and customer engagement.

    He encourages proactive learning, attending conferences, and networking with professionals from other sectors. By stepping outside the traditional boundaries of the auto repair industry, shop owners can gain fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that can set them apart from competitors.

    The episode concludes with practical steps for implementing these innovative ideas to enhance customer experience and drive positive change in auto repair shops. Chris provides actionable advice on how to start small, such as introducing a customer feedback system or experimenting with new service packages, and gradually scale up these initiatives. He also stresses the importance of continuous improvement and staying adaptable to evolving customer expectations and industry trends. By embracing these strategies, auto repair shops can not only improve their operations but also create a more engaging and satisfying experience for their customers.

    The power of looking outside our industry (00:01:05)
    Exploring the importance of learning from disruptors in other fields to stay ahead of the curve.
    Innovation at the edges (00:03:26)
    Discussing how innovation often occurs at the edges of industries and the benefits of looking beyond traditional practices.
    Examples of disruptors in other industries (00:04:37)
    Exploring examples from healthcare, food and beverage, connected fitness apps, and education to draw insights for auto repair business.
    Implementing ideas in auto repair shops (00:09:41)
    Strategies for implementing ideas from other industries, such as networking, adopting technology, experimenting with service models, focusing on customer experience, and empowering the team.

    Connect with Chris:
    chris@autofixsos.com
    Phone:...

    • 12 min
    Stop Moving the Goalposts! [E173]

    Stop Moving the Goalposts! [E173]

    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 podcast episode, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching discusses the critical importance of setting clear, achievable goals in the auto repair business. He warns against the pitfalls of constantly changing targets, which can negatively impact business direction and team morale.
    Coach Cotton emphasizes the need for SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—and offers practical steps for planning, monitoring progress, and celebrating milestones. He delves into the significance of having a structured approach to goal-setting, which not only helps in aligning the team’s efforts but also ensures that everyone is working towards a common objective.
    Coach Cotton also shares real-life examples and success stories from auto repair shops that have thrived by adhering to these principles. This episode offers valuable insights for business growth and personal satisfaction, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their auto repair business.

    Introduction (00:00:03)
    Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its purpose, highlighting the game-changing insights and practical tips for auto repair businesses.
    Moving the Goalposts (00:01:05)
    Discussion on the perils of constantly changing goals in business and personal life, emphasizing the importance of setting and sticking to clear goals.
    Setting Clear Goals (00:02:15)
    Exploration of the cruciality of defining a clear vision, setting SMART goals, creating a plan, monitoring progress, staying accountable, and celebrating milestones.
    Personal Goal Setting (00:06:46)
    Advises on setting personal goals to support professional life, continuous learning, and prioritizing health and wellness for a successful life and business.
    Conclusion and Call to Action (00:07:47)
    Encouragement to stop moving the goalposts and start achieving goals, with a shoutout to the sponsor and a motivational sign-off.

    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

    • 8 min
    Are You Merely Interested or Are You Committed [E172]

    Are You Merely Interested or Are You Committed [E172]

    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 podcast episode, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching delves into the crucial role of commitment in the auto repair business. He contrasts the significant difference between being merely interested and being fully committed, drawing inspiration from a powerful video by Coach Patty Gasso of the Oklahoma Sooners women's softball team. Coach Chris emphasizes that shop owners must engage fully in coaching to achieve long-term success, rather than just dabbling or showing occasional interest.

    Throughout the episode, Coach Chris encourages a committed mindset for excellence and business growth. He shares real-life examples and success stories of shop owners who have transformed their businesses by fully committing to their goals and consistently applying the principles of effective coaching and marketing. The episode serves as a motivational guide, urging listeners to take decisive action and fully invest in their business journey for sustained success.

    Introduction (00:00:01) Setting up the episode, introducing the topic of commitment in the auto repair business.

    Shop Marketing Pros (00:01:09) Promotion of shop marketing services and the importance of tailored marketing solutions for auto repair businesses.

    Coach Patty Gasso's Video (00:02:35) Discussion of Coach Patty Gasso's video and the concept of being interested vs. committed in coaching and business.

    The Commitment Mindset (00:05:27) Exploring the importance of commitment in coaching, specifically in engaging, being open to feedback, consistency, and investing time and resources.

    Benefits of Commitment (00:07:52) Highlighting the benefits of being committed to coaching, including transformational results, accountability, strategic growth, and overcoming challenges.

    Call to Action (00:09:04) Encouraging auto repair shop owners to commit to excellence and outlining steps for a committed mindset.

    Conclusion and Sponsor (00:10:09) Wrapping up the episode, emphasizing the importance of commitment, and acknowledging the sponsor.
    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

    • 8 min
    Monday with Chris & Murray! Mindset Matters [E171]

    Monday with Chris & Murray! Mindset Matters [E171]

    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 episode 171 of the podcast, Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching introduces Murray Voth from RPM Training. They discuss the importance of using the term "service rate" instead of "labor rate" to enhance customer perception. Murray emphasizes the need for a business mindset among shop owners, highlighting the potential for profitability and the importance of accurate financial statements.
    They also address challenges like tax issues and the psychological aspects of investing. The episode concludes with a discussion on coaching approaches, financial management, and a mutual appreciation for their collaborative efforts in the automotive industry.
    Introduction and Overview (00:00:01) Introduction to the podcast episode and the speakers, Chris Cotton and Murray Voth.Marketing Strategies (00:01:06) Discussion on tailored marketing solutions and how to elevate the brand to attract new customers.Change from Labor Rate to Service Rate (00:02:09) Murray Voth introduces the concept of changing from labor rate to service rate and its impact on customer perception.Consumer Inquiries and Response (00:05:28) Guidance on responding to consumer inquiries about labor rate and the use of "service rate" or "facility service rate."Mindset of Shop Owners (00:09:46) Exploration of the mindset of shop owners and the need for a shift from a technician's identity to a business owner's mindset.Business Investment and Real Estate (00:14:11) Discussion on the interest of investors in auto repair businesses and the value of real estate associated with the shops.Commitment and Mindset Shift (00:16:07) Exploration of the commitment versus interest in coaching and the importance of mindset shift for shop owners.Analogies and Shop Improvement (00:17:23) The use of analogies to help shop owners understand their businesses as "fixer-uppers" and the need for a different perspective.Emotional and Psychological Baggage (00:19:19) Acknowledgment of emotional and psychological factors that influence business decisions and ownership.Investing and Self-Made Millionaires (00:19:57) Discussion on the cost of investing in the stock market and the myth of self-made millionaires.Tax Problems and Profit First (00:20:57) Conversation about tax issues, creating a holding company, and utilizing the profit-first approach.Struggling Shop Owners and Industry Help (00:21:37) Concern for struggling shop owners post-COVID and the increase in sales among clients.Mindset Shift and Attracting Clients (00:23:04) The impact of mindset on attracting clients, differentiation between blue-collar and frugal mindsets.Pathologically Frugal Shop Owners (00:24:10) Discussion on the impact of a frugal mindset on equipment, marketing, and attracting similar clients.Corporate Profit and Small Business Mindset (00:27:23) Exploration of the fear of profit in small business and the historical context of corporate profit abuses.Investment Return and Business Value (00:33:08) Understanding the return on investment in business and the value accumulation over time.Accounting and Business Evaluation (00:37:29) The importance of accounting in understanding business value and preparing for a business sale.Income Statement and Account Catch-Up (00:39:30) Discussion...

    • 39 min
    Four Day Work Week for Your Auto Repair Shop! [E170]

    Four Day Work Week for Your Auto Repair Shop! [E170]

    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 podcast episode, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching delves into the multifaceted benefits of adopting a four-day workweek within the auto repair industry. He underscores significant enhancements in employee morale, work-life balance, and overall productivity, while also noting the potential to attract and retain top-tier talent. Chris provides an in-depth analysis of various structural approaches for implementing a four-day workweek, including staggered shifts and rotating schedules, ensuring that operations run smoothly without compromising service quality.

    The episode, sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, is a treasure trove of practical tips for auto repair shop owners contemplating this transition. Chris emphasizes the importance of developing a customized plan that meticulously balances employee satisfaction with operational efficiency. He discusses the nuances of different implementation strategies, such as ensuring adequate coverage during peak hours and maintaining customer service standards. Additionally, Chris shares real-world examples and success stories from shops that have successfully made the switch, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the potential challenges and rewards.

    Listeners will also gain insights into the financial implications of a four-day workweek, including potential cost savings from reduced overhead and increased employee retention. Chris highlights the importance of clear communication with staff throughout the transition process and offers advice on how to gather and incorporate employee feedback to fine-tune the new schedule. By the end of the episode, auto repair shop owners will be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to make an informed decision about whether a four-day workweek is the right fit for their business.

    Boosted Employee Morale and Productivity (00:02:19) Shorter workweek leads to increased productivity and higher job satisfaction, improving employee morale and focus.Improved Work-Life Balance (00:03:28) A four-day workweek allows for more family time, hobbies, and rest, reducing burnout and maintaining mental and physical health.Attracting Top Talent (00:04:23) Offering a four-day workweek can attract top talent valuing flexibility and work-life balance, setting the employer apart.Operational Efficiency and Financial Benefits (00:05:32) Streamlining operations, reducing turnover rates, and potential cost savings with a condensed workweek.Structural Approaches to Transitioning to a Four-Day Workweek (00:06:34) Staggered shifts, extended hours, rotating schedules, and seasonal adjustments to implement a four-day workweek.

    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

    • 10 min
    Mid-Year Reflection: How Is Your Auto Repair Shop Doing and What’s Next? [E169]

    Mid-Year Reflection: How Is Your Auto Repair Shop Doing and What’s Next? [E169]

    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 podcast episode, Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching offers valuable insights for auto repair shop owners. He emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the first half of the year and preparing for a successful second half by recognizing achievements and overcoming hurdles. Chris provides actionable steps such as revamping marketing strategies, investing in team training, and enhancing customer experience. He stresses the significance of setting clear goals, implementing strategic changes, and maintaining accountability. The episode concludes with gratitude to listeners and a reminder to stay positive and proactive in business endeavors.

    Supercharge Your Auto Repair Business (00:00:01) Introduction to the podcast episode and a brief overview of what to expect.Mid-Year Reflection (00:01:06) Reflecting on the first half of the year for auto repair shop owners and setting the stage for the second half.Assessing First Half Performance (00:02:11) Reviewing achievements and setbacks in the first half of the year for auto repair shops.Overcoming Personal Roadblocks (00:03:15) Identifying and addressing internal barriers that may have held back the shop's performance.Setting Clear Goals (00:05:23) Discussing the importance of setting ambitious and measurable goals for the second half of the year.Actionable Steps for Improvement (00:07:21) Providing eight actionable steps for auto repair shop owners to consider for business growth and improvement.Accountability and Monitoring (00:13:01) Emphasizing the importance of tracking progress, reviewing key performance indicators, and holding oneself and the team accountable.Seeking Support for Business Growth (00:15:01) Highlighting the value of seeking support, collaboration, and learning from a network of like-minded individuals for business success.
    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

    • 14 min

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