Strengthening Your Shop During Uncertain Times
We know people are nervous, and some shops are worried about getting customers through their doors. But, there are things that you can do now to strengthen your relationship with your customers, and even bring in new customers.
In fact, RepairPal is getting creative. We’re using our social media channels and website to let potential customers know you’re still open and to highlight your efforts to protect their safety and provide convenient excellent service.
First off, auto repair is a critical service, excluded from the shelter in place restrictions in most areas, as per the local regulations we have read.
Next, communication with customers is key:
- Let people know the shop is open, and that you’re taking measures to protect them! Copy, paste and modify the social and email text below.
- Follow up on appointments is so important, especially now, to reassure your customers that you’re operating and prepared to take care...
What To Look For When Hiring A Tech, And Tips On How To Find Good Ones
The shortage of good technicians is a fact of life in the auto repair industry. Combined with the high rate of employee turnover in the average shop, it is a virtual certainty that you will need to hire new technicians at some point in the near future.
When it does come time to hire, what should you look for in a new tech? And how do you find the best techs out there? Let’s take a look at what it takes to get great techs that will be a credit to your shop’s reputation, as well as your bottom line!
It’s a tough market out there
The independent auto repair industry is facing a perfect storm when it comes to hiring technicians. It’s truly a difficult situation
- Older techs are retiring in large numbers, creating vacancies and a loss of in-shop knowledge.
- There were only 37,400 graduates of post-secondary automotive...
2020 Trade Shows
We will be exhibiting at the following trade shows in the first half of 2020. We hope to see you there!
- April 30 – May 1, Shop Hacker – Murfreesboro, TN
- June 11 – 13, WorldPac – National Harbor, MD
Come meet our experts while we demonstrate all the exciting services RepairPal offers. Reach us at 866.936.8428 to learn more.
The Future Outlook For New Techs, And How To Find And Train Them
The future outlook for new technicians
Let’s start with the good news. There is a huge demand for automotive technicians throughout the automotive service industry. The not-so-good news is that fewer and fewer young people see this field as a worthwhile career choice. This has created a shortage of techs to fill all those positions at independent shops, as well as dealerships and the various service chains.
It’s a bad situation that is steadily getting worse. Here are some of the sobering facts:
- Half of all entry-level technicians from certified auto tech programs leave their jobs at independent shops and dealerships within two years.
- 30% of techs overall leave their jobs each year.
- There were only 37,400 graduates of post-secondary automotive tech training programs in 2017, which was lower than the previous year, and is much less than half of what the service industry needs on an annual basis.
- Many high schools have cut...
How Cars Of The Near Future Will Change The Role Of The Tech – And Your Shop – Part 3
Prepare for the future by adding services that customers want to spend money on:
As we look into the near future of the independent repair shop, there are some changes coming that will require adaptation for long-term survival. These include:
- Longer service intervals for new vehicles
- Electric vehicles that are simpler devices with fewer service needs
Service intervals have been getting longer for many years. This has been partially driven by longer-lasting oils, spark plugs, and other maintenance items. Another reason is to let manufacturers that provide “free” service during the warranty period keep their costs down.
Whatever the reason, your customers are bringing their cars into your shop less frequently. That translates into less income for your shop.
Another future impact on your shop will be the growth of the electric vehicle fleet. These vehicles are much simpler and may be more reliable than the internal combustion-powered vehicles. That also means...
