2014 Editions Archives - Page 3 of 5 - Shop Owner Magazine
The Expectations Of Generation Y: What To Know When Hiring New Employees

Companies can’t continue to recruit, retain and manage their workforce with the mindset that was commonplace 20 years ago, and that includes your shop. Millennials grew up with advanced technology, mobile technology, real-time data and social networking, so that’s what they know and therefore expect to see from their employer. Here’s an overview of some of those expectations.

Convenience Auto’s Commitment To Excellence Helps Shop Remain Successful

All too often, going into business together can strain a friendship, but this hasn’t been the case for Lou Lippert and Mike Maloney. If anything, opening Convenience Auto Service in March 2004 and working to operate a successful independent repair shop has only solidified the alliance – and resulted in the two friends celebrating their 10th anniversary in business.

Workplace Safety Protects Your Employees And Your Business

While the subject of safety in an automotive repair shop is not nearly as sexy as a new marketing program or the latest on SEO, it goes a long way toward ensuring your technicians and company remain a vital component of your community, and you remain a profitable entity.

Top 5 Reasons A Deal Falls Apart, And How To Prevent Them

Your tire or auto service business has provided for your livelihood. It has created jobs, sales, profits, equity and marketplace visibility. And now you’re ready to move on. Maybe you’re seeking an exit right away. Maybe you’re planning for the future. Either way, and regardless of the phase you may be in regarding the sale of your shop, if you have questions about how to proceed, you’re not alone.

Eagle Automotive Combines Teamwork, Service Excellence For Business Success

When Brian Bates opened Eagle Automotive in Littleton, CO, 10 years ago, he knew he wanted to build not only a successful business, but also a rewarding environment where employees wanted to excel. If opening a second location in 2012 is any indication, Bates is on to something, and that something is teamwork.

Working ‘On’ Your Business, Not Just ‘In’ It

Once upon a time, my accountant had to prepare 102 W2s in a single year for my shop. We had so much turnover, dealt with so much chaos and were putting out so many fires that it was impossible for me to contemplate working “on” my business instead of “in” it. So what’s the way out? How can we break the cycle? I’ll come at this problem from two directions, but, truthfully, it comes back to a single principle: we have to focus on results instead of activity.

New Technology Boosts Tech Productivity And Shop Communication

Shop owners using the electronic inspection sheet, as well as the paperless back shop, have been going through some inflection points. Getting rid of paper has allowed them to present professional-looking inspection results to their customers and an unprecedented opportunity to educate on “Why now?” and “What happens if I don’t do it?”

What Your Auto Shop Can Learn From The Insurance Industry

In order to build a successful auto repair business, most shop owners feel they need to sell more parts and more labor. Although both of those items are a part of your business model, one thing is certain: your customers don’t look forward to buying either of the two, at any price.

Casey’s Independent Automotive Repair Shares Vision With Employees

The mark of a long-lasting business isn’t just profitability during times of economic prosperity, but also adjusting when things take a turn for the worse. Vancouver, WA, Shop Owner Casey McGowan has seen hard times — and taken the steps necessary to ensure his business not only stayed afloat but flourished as well.

Dan Freeman, Industry Veteran Of 50 Years, Takes A Look Back And A Look Ahead

Dan Freeman, who’s been at the helm of Automotive Parts Associates (APA) for 25 years, looks back on his storied and successful career, and looks forward to giving back to the industry in his well-deserved retirement that begins later this month.

Get The Most Out of Your Shop’s Point-of-Sale Software

Choosing shop management and point-of-sale software is a bit like buying a vehicle. The sheer number of makes and models available can be intimidating for a shop looking to get started or change to a new system. So, how do you choose

Improve Auto Repair Employee Performance By Setting, Tracking Goals

Improving employee performance is a critical issue that most shop owners struggle with on a daily basis. I’ve discovered that building and maintaining a strong team of high performers is an ongoing process that requires a range of strategies, from providing the proper training to offering opportunities for growth.