If your job could talk, what would it say? (People Process Webinar Clip)

If this job could talk, what would it say?

The automotive repair industry comprises a variety of different positions. Check out this this clip from our members only People Process workshop. Brian and the  callers explain automotive jobs. The You Net Results group outline both the jobs’ tasks, and their relationships to each other. Each shop owner shares their knowledge from decades of adapting to an ever changing industry. Think you know everything about each job description in the automotive field? These pros all bring up some great points you may have never considered. Don’t miss out!

Explain automotive jobs: Owner and General Manager

First, Brian asks members what it means to be an automotive repair shop owner. Andy recalls his experience working his way up to the position of Owner of his family’s repair business. He describes “replacing himself”, delegating tasks to other staff. Sometimes it does not work out, and he needs to resume said chores temporarily. The bottom line is that owners have to wear many hats within the business, thus they need to stay on their toes to adapt to change.

Our own Jim Ryckman chimes in to describe a General Manager is responsibilities. He or she also must delegate jobs amongst the team. However, the GM is often on the floor, right in the action. Thinking on your feet is key! Managers assist with tickets, tracking parts inventory, and weekly organizational tasks for both front and back of house staff. Sometimes, perhaps most importantly, they are the face of the shop to customers. Your GM may need to engage clients in “show and tell” about the repair process, or grab them a cup of coffee – anything to make your customers feel welcome! This important position is very challenging, but the more dedicated and flexible you are, the more rewarding it can be!

Explain automotive jobs: Front Counter Staff

Whether you call it Front Counter Staff, Service Advisor, or Service Writer, this job is a crucial spoke in the automotive shop wheel. Cory explains what this job means to him, since he has experience with training front counter workers.

Service Advisors are the conduit between both your customers and your mechanics. They’re responsible for explaining the car’s repair needs. They also must estimate how long repairs will take and how much they will cost. “Job stacking” is a critical task for a Service Writer. Managing multiple jobs can be tough, so Front Counter Staff need to have excellent time management and organizational skills. Not to mention, they must work with vendors to ensure all necessary parts are in stock. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented new challenges to these workers, such as online communication with customers, due to social distancing requirements.

Cory believes that no other position is as integral to an auto repair shop’s income than the Service Advisor. You could say that no other auto repair position requires people skills more than a Service Advisor.

What are the responsibilities of General Service Technicians?

A General Service Technician is sometimes called a Mechanic by a lay person. It is undoubtedly the heartbeat of any auto repair shop. Techs often perform a thankless job. That is despite their required regular ASE certification training. While many facets of the auto repair process don’t change, technology advances dictate continuing education. Who knows, your shop may have to service a self driving car in the near future! Mechanics need to know everything from transmission repair to how to fix the computerized engines of 21st century cars and trucks.

Joe is a veteran shop owner hailing from Alabama. He’s seen it all! First, Joe runs down the ever evolving responsibilities of technicians. He recalls his own experiences as a mechanic, which began over 50 years ago. Before their continued learning, each tech must have a strong foundation of know how. Speed of service is also crucial.

Mechanics are typically the lowest paid team members, but they have plenty of opportunities to advance their careers. General Service Technicians learn many skills on the job. Whether at their existing shop, or in another industry, they are valuable hires. Their communication with others in house, plus their adaptability, are important traits. Those skills can help a General Service Tech to eventually move up to an A Tech, Service Writer, or even Owner in time.

Ready to learn more? Grow your shop’s bottom line with our weekly meetings!

Are staff relationships and training confusing you? Do you struggle to put all of the pieces together? Then why not join one of our monthly coaching groups! You will have access to join our live weekly Zoom meetings. They cover topics such as budgeting for profit, hiring, leadership, and much more. Members also have 24/7 access to hours of previous training calls. A library of valuable documents will help to guide you. Sign up today!