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As I gaze into the rearview mirror and look back at my career as a technician, shop owner, business leader and coach to many successful shop owners, I wonder, what would I say to my younger self to expedite, enhance and straighten the path to get me to where I am today? Looking back to […]

The phrase “Family Owned and Operated” creates a warm flow of positive emotions when you talk about your company to your customers, especially those of the female persuasion. But, having family as a part of your business creates a whole new dynamic that most people can’t comprehend. Think getting through Thanksgiving Dinner is tough? No

Are you letting big profits drip out by not managing the little leaks? Sales growth is a waste of time! Yep, you read that right. I said what most hesitate to say! In some circles, there is a pervasive business philosophy that a busy and fast-growing shop is a profitable one. Unfortunately, the exact opposite

5 Ways to Secure Your Future Dreamer; head in the clouds; idealist; trusting to a fault; doesn’t know when to give up…  Each of these traits (and more) have been used to describe me as well as countless other shop owners. In some cases, they may be taken as negatives, but I believe they are

Silver, gold, platinum, diamonds, rubies, even cold hard cash – we take measures each day to protect them. Some methods are more drastic than others and we frequently use locks, banks, safes and alarms to ensure their safe protection. We lock our homes, cars and businesses too, all to safeguard our personal possessions and the

The concern about the talent and technician shortage is at a fever pitch. Shops are turning away work, revenue is falling, and shop owner anxiety is at an all-time high when you talk about finding a tech. We have talked to shop owners who are looking to hang up their keys and close the shop

Sometimes, Mid-Course Adjustments Are Required Whether it’s F1 at Monaco; Hypercars at the 24 hours of Le Mans; the roar of a crowded basketball, football or soccer stadium; the serenity and insanity of cycling the Tour de France; or any other competitive sport, they all have one thing in common: mid-way adjustments just might make the

Typically, repair shops are closely held organizations run by first-, second- or even third-generation owners. In most cases, you’ll hear about entry level, and A, B, and C level techs when they talk about their level of skill. These designations are from a bygone era where raw skills combined with a 200-piece toolkit could accomplish

It’s the happiest place on earth…no, not the place with the Mouse. I’m talking about your shop when you achieve the business of your dreams. After years in the industry you have finally made it, so picture the ultimate result. Granite counters, a well-appointed customer lounge, a/c with heat in the shop and ceramic-tiled bays

Image is everything, they say. It’s about public facing. Retailers, fast food chains, even modern HVAC and plumbing companies know the gravity of the first impression.  Coordinated color schemes, logoed shirts and complementary pants make for a positive first impression. And guess what – it applies in the shop, as well. Your first impression sets