auto repair


Let’s talk about the Bid Sheet Form. This is a critical step in the process of writing up repair orders. Your automotive shop’s Technician must fill out this sheet thoroughly and accurately to ensure the customers have a smooth vehicle repair experience experience. If you are not using a bid sheet or a form like it, your repair process is not as efficient as it could be. Listen in as Brian Gillis walks YNR members through the form and explains its place in the key to key process.

Two Auto Repair Technicians fill out the Bid Sheet Form for Parts and Labor on Automotive Shop Repair OrderUsing The Bid Sheet Form – Real World Examples

In this clip from a recent Virtual Clinic session, Brian continues discussing the Full System Isolate process. He introduces the Bid Sheet Form. This form lists out any parts that may need to be replaced, as well as describing the labor that will be needed, the time it will take, and why.

Next, Brian calls on Kyle from Transolution to walk through each field on the sample form. While the fields on the left will be brief, the parts listed on the right will be more detailed. The left column consists of a quick description of the necessary labor. It also lists an estimated labor time, which is available in your guide. There is a field that asks “Why?” in the left column. Your Repair Order should already detail this information. However, there is room to add to it if necessary.

On the right column, your Tech will list out all parts needed for the repair, as well as how many gallons of fluid, and other specific details. Make sure they are thorough when they detail all of this information. Brian gives an example of how catastrophe unfolded in one of his shops when Technician missed listing a needed part on the Bid Sheet Form. The customer accepted the job, but the Tech did not list out the intake gasket. He assumed that the Service Advisor would know the job required that part, and was only concerned with the labor time. Of course, the shop ended up eating the cost of the parts.

Is Your Auto Repair Shop Ready For The Next Step? Book Your FREE Strategy Session!

Brian Gillis - You Net ResultsYour independent automotive repair shop is lacking in direction. Maybe your business plan has stalled out. You are definitely not meeting your goals for growth. You need an experienced automotive industry coach who can help you. Then why not schedule a FREE business strategy session with You Net Results guide Brian Gills? You’ve got absolutely nothing to lose, so sign up today!

How can an Auto Repair Shop Business Owner become a Confident Leader?

How can an Auto Repair Shop Business Owner become a Confident Leader?

Are you an auto repair shop owner looking to transform your business? Do you need to evolve from a mere business owner into a confident leader? At You Net Results, we understand the distinct challenges of running an auto repair shop. 

That’s why we will guide you through the essential steps to master a turnaround for your business. Whether you’re facing financial difficulties, struggling with team management, or simply looking to take your shop to the next level, we’ve got you covered.

The Road to Transformation For an Auto Repair Business Owner

As a business owner, you know why it’s important to keep up with the changes in the  automotive industry. However, in addition to technical skills are not enough. You must master leadership in order to navigate the business side. Below, we explore the key strategies and insights to help you become a confident leader in the auto repair industry.

Assess Your Current Situation

The first step in any turnaround is assessing your current situation honestly. Are you experiencing declining profits, struggling to attract new customers, or facing internal conflicts within your team? Identifying your pain points will help you tailor a specific action plan to address your challenges.

Define Your Leadership Style

Successful turnaround starts with strong leadership. At You Net Results, we’ll help you identify your leadership style, as well as areas needing improvement. Whether you’re a hands-on leader or prefer a more strategic approach, knowing your strengths and weaknesses will help you make informed decisions.

Team Development

Your staff is the backbone of your auto repair shop. A confident leader understands the importance of both team development and effective communication. We’ll provide you with tools and strategies to build a motivated and productive team that shares your vision for the business.

Financial Management

Financial challenges can be a significant roadblock for many auto repair shop owners. We will work with you to create a sustainable financial plan, from budgeting to revenue optimization, to ensure the long-term success of your business.

Customer Experience

In today’s competitive market, excellent customer service is non-negotiable. Our team at You Net Results will help you create a customer-centric approach, improving your shop’s reputation and attracting a loyal client base.

A Business Owner Guide To Becoming a Confident Leader

Confident leadership doesn’t just come by wishing it; You must possess certain qualities such as:

Decision Making When a Business Owner Wants to Become a Better Leader

Confident leaders should not be afraid to make tough decisions. That’s why at You Net Results, we show you how to make strategic decisions, and manage risks, as well as create a staff culture of accountability.

Time Management

When you are an auto repair shop business owner, your time is precious. We teach you how to manage your time effectively and delegate tasks, so you can prioritize activities that impact your business the most.

Continuous Learning for a Business Owner

The automotive industry is constantly evolving. Therefore as a leader, you must stay informed. We’ll help you develop a habit of continuous learning, so you can stay ahead of industry trends, and adapt to change.

We Want To Help Your Business Grow At You Net Results

Mastering a turnaround from a business owner to a confident leader in the auto repair industry is a journey requiring dedication, perseverance, and the right guidance. When you trust You Net Results to guide your business, we will support you every step of the way. Our experience working with auto repair shop owners has given us invaluable insights into the unique challenges you face. Remember, your success is also our success. 

Are you ready to transform your auto repair business by becoming a confident leader? Then  schedule an appointment with us. Together, we’ll pave the way for a brighter future for your shop and establish your authority in the auto repair industry.

Photo by Tim Mossholder On UnsplashPhoto by Tim Mossholder On Unsplash

We will soon bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new. Now is the perfect time to reflect on your auto repair business and set some realistic auto repair New Years resolutions. At You Net Results, we understand the unique challenges auto repair shop owners face. Hence, in this blog, we’ll guide you through some key goals that can change your auto repair shop and set you on a path to long-term success. Let’s examine them.

Auto Repair New Years Resolutions #1: Streamline Operations

One of the most crucial resolutions for an auto repair business is streamlining operations. This means optimizing your workflow, reducing unnecessary downtime, and ensuring that your team operates efficiently. Consider automating routine tasks, implementing a reliable software system, and providing regular training for your staff. Our Auto Service Advisor Training can help you achieve these goals, so your shop will be more efficient and profitable.

#2: Invest in Training and Development 

Your team is your greatest asset. In the auto repair industry, staying updated with the latest technologies and repair techniques is essential. Resolve to invest in training and development programs for your service advisors, technicians, and customer service staff.

You Net Results offers comprehensive training programs in order to improve your team’s knowledge and skills. That will enhance the customers’ experiences, guaranteed.

#3: Enhance Customer Experience 

Customer satisfaction should always be a top priority. Make a resolution to go the extra mile in providing excellent customer service. Encourage your service advisors to communicate clearly with clients, explain repairs, and offer honest estimates. Happy customers not only return but also refer others to your shop. Our ARA (Auto Repair Advisor) program equips your team with the skills to exceed customer expectations.

Auto Repair New Years Resolutions #4: Set Clear Financial Goals 

Financial stability is key to the long-term success of your auto repair business. Set specific financial goals for the year, such as growing revenue, reducing expenses, or raising profit margins. Regularly monitor your financial performance, then make necessary adjustments. You Net Results offers financial coaching to help you navigate the financial aspect of your business successfully.

#5: Embrace Technology 

The auto repair industry is constantly evolving with new technologies and diagnostic tools. Staying up-to-date is essential for providing high-quality service. Resolve to embrace technology and invest in the latest equipment. You Net Results can help you select the right tools and technology in order to improve diagnostics and efficiency.

#6: Implement a Marketing Plan 

Effective marketing is important for attracting new customers and retaining existing ones. Make a resolution in order to create a marketing plan for your auto repair business. Utilize online marketing, social media, and email campaigns so you can reach your target audience. Our website has a dedicated blog on “Auto Service Advisor Marketing Strategies” that can provide more info.

Auto Repair New Years Resolutions #7: Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

In order to track your progress, establish a set of key performance indicators (KPIs) for your business. This can include metrics such as customer retention rates, average repair order value, and technician productivity. Regularly review these KPIs so you can use the data to make informed decisions and improvements.

We Can Help You Reach Your New Years Goals!

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to set goals for your auto repair business. By following all that we have mentioned in this blog, you can position your business for growth and success in 2024.

At You Net Results, we’re here to help you keep these resolutions. Our Auto Service Advisor Training and other programs empower both auto repair shop owners and their teams. Make 2024 a year of prosperity and excellence for your business by taking the first step toward improving. Contact You Net Results today, so we can help you get started. Book a complimentary consultation. Brian Gillis and our team will help you create the best marketing strategy for your business. Build trust, showcase expertise, and ensure repeat business. Let’s make 2024 the best year of your business life!

As an auto repair shop owner, we are sure that you understand the importance of a steady, well organized, and well educated team. However, the task of finding and mentoring the right talent is more complex than ordering parts for a tune-up. But not to worry, that’s why we are here to guide you!

In this blog, we will share our expert insights on how to build an exceptional auto repair team. Then, we will explain how you should guide your staff. If you ever need personalized help, just schedule an appointment with us here at You Net Results.

The Importance of a Strong Team

Before you dive into all of the steps needed to build your team, it is crucial that you know why a strong team is so vital for your auto repair shop. A skilled team will bring in the required skills that will grow customer satisfaction. In turn, that promotes a positive workplace. These factors directly impact your repair shop’s bottom line. Because of that, they make team building and mentorship non-negotiable parts of your business plan.

Recruitment: The Foundation of Your Team

The first step to building a strong team is to put the right team member in place. As much as you can, you will need to pay attention to the following items:

  1. Identifying Core Competencies: List all of the technical skills, certifications, and soft skills that your staff need to run for your shop’s day to day operations.
  2. Advertising: Use online job boards, social media, and industry contacts in order to reach potential hires. Ensure that your new job postings clear and concise when they explain the skills and experience that you seek.
  3. Interview Process: During the interviews, assess the technical prowess and soft skills of each candidate. These include communication, teamwork, and problem solving abilities.

Training: Equip Your Auto Repair Shop Staff Members for Success

Have you sought out and then hired the perfect staff members for your company? Don’t stop there!  Go the extra mile. Provide your valued employees with the following perks:

  1. Orientation: Give your new hires a review of your shop’s operations and its safety protocols. Make sure that they know your customer service expectations inside and out.
  2. Skill Training: Use hands on training and mentorship programs. These will bridge any skills gaps that you may see in your new hires.
  3. Continuous Learning: Encourage and help to set up some ongoing training programs. Other industry certifications and courses will help your staff as well.

Don’t neglect filling up your How-To Manual with SOPs on each and every task you expect your staff to perform. Standard Operating Procedures are key factors in helping your team members to grow and succeed! 

The Key to Retention? Mentor Your Team

Many employers often overlook mentoring staff. You should not, though. Your business will grow a lot, depending on how much improvement and growth your employees experience. To ensure this, you should embrace:

  1. Pairing: Match the less experienced team members with your auto shop’s seasoned professionals for mentorship.
  2. Scheduled Check-ins: Hold weekly or bi-weekly one-on-one meetings with each employee. During these meetings, order to discuss performance, concerns, and areas that need improvement.
  3. Professional Development Plans: Work with your team members in order to create their personalized growth plans. This will involve setting doable milestones.

Team Building for Mentors: Beyond Skills and Tools

As you train, you should also make sure that you are fostering teamwork among your employees. To achieve this, use the following tools:

  1. Team Meetings: Conduct regular meetings to address issues and celebrate wins.
  2. Incentives: Offer bonuses, raises, and other incentives. These will help you to motivate and reward your valuable team members.
  3. Work-Life Balance: Promote a wholesome work-life balance. This means offering both flexible schedules and paid time off to your staff.

How To Measure Your Success: KPIs for Your Team

Keep an eye on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as:

  • Customer satisfaction ratings
  • Average repair time
  • Employee turnover rates
  • Revenue generated per employee

These metrics will help you gauge the efficiency of your team building, as well as your  mentoring efforts.

The Next Steps to Build and Mentor Your Staff

Building and mentoring an top tier auto repair team is a long term investment. Still, there are so many rewards: happier employees, more satisfied customers, and a much healthier bottom line. At You Net Results, we all believe in empowering auto repair shop owners. We provide both the tools and the knowledge for you to excel at work.

Our coaching programs are designed in order to address your specific challenges. They will provide you with all the practical solutions to help you to achieve your business goals. When the landscape is as competitive as it is today, you can not afford to settle for a mid level team. Partner with us, so that you can make your staff your overall greatest asset!

You Net Results Is Always Here For You! 

Contact You Net Results today, so we can help you to begin the mentoring process. Book a free consultation. Brian Gillis and his team will help you to build your shop’s leadership foundation. Get plugged into a vast network of auto repair shops. We all work together in order to to strengthen the industry as a whole! We can help you make this month the best month of your entire business life!

Increase efficiency and reduce your costs by measuring your auto repair shop processes!

As business coaches for auto repair shop owners, we have seen so many shops ignore one crucial aspect. That is measuring their processes. Precision helps shop owners find issues and reduce costs. The bottom line is that measuring systems improves your efficiency. This article stresses gauging your auto repair systems, so let’s dive in!

Introduction: Insights Into Efficiency

Running an auto repair shop comes with its own set of unique challenges. From handling customer expectations to making complex repairs, there is a lot on a shop owner’s plate. However, many shop owners do not know the power of gauging the steps they must take for each and every repair. You can gain many big insights into what you do when you do so. Then, you can make crucial data driven choices by tracking and studying your key metrics.

The Importance of Measuring Your Auto Repair Processes

Listing Your Shop’s Own Issues

When you measure your auto repair systems, it will shine a light on shortfalls that cost your shop both time and money. Pinpoint the areas of improvement by tracking metrics such as cycle time and first-time fix rate. Do certain repair jobs always take longer than expected? That may show a need for either more training or a better workflow.

Reducing Your Costs

Cost control is a top priority for any business owner. This is true, regardless of what industry they happen to work in. Auto repair shops are no exception to this rule. When you measure out your automotive repair processes, it will help you to identify the ways you can save money. Analyze such metrics as your technician yield and your parts usage. Those could uncover many expenses you need to reduce, all without losing quality. This can then lead your shop to big time savings over the long haul.

Improving Efficiency

Efficiency is a vital component to running a successful auto repair shop. Measuring each process will help you identify your holdups and simplify your day to day operations. By tracking the metrics related to workflow and resource usage, you can adjust them in order to optimize your efficiency. This will lead you to both faster turnaround times and increased customer satisfaction. Not to mention you will see higher profits!

Implementing a Measurement System to Increase Efficiency

When you install a measurement system for your auto repair processes, it will require both careful planning and precise execution. Follow the four steps below:

Define What Your Goals Are

Start by clearly stating what your auto shop’s business goals are. What specific outcomes do you want to achieve in the future? Some examples could include reducing your cycle time by 20%, or perhaps increasing the first-time fix rate to 90%. Be sure that you define clear, specific goals so you can guide your measurement efforts.

Select Appropriate Metrics

Choose the metrics that will both align with your goals and provide the right insights. Consider critical metrics such as cycle time, first time fix rate, mechanic output, and customer happiness. Tailor each of the metrics to your shop’s unique needs and goals.

Collecting and Analyzing Data

Establish a way in which you can both collect and analyze your chosen metrics’ data. You may need to use a niche software, but old fashioned manual tracking methods could work just as well. Ensure that the data collection process is accurate and consistent, as well as reliable.

Taking Action

Collecting data is only valuable if you take action based on it. Regularly review the data and note any problem areas you observe. Work with your team to write action plans and make the needed changes. This will help you address shortfalls and improve every aspect of your business.

Benefits of Measuring Auto Repair Processes

There are so many perks that result from gauging your auto repair processes. Here are just a few of the rewards you can expect:

Identifying What’s Blocking Your Efficiency

When you measure your repair actions, you can identify any of the bottlenecks that might hinder your workflow. Does a specific repair task take way too long? Do you have far too few resources in house? Then, you need to address these shortfalls for the highest efficiency.

Streamlining Your Daily Operations

Measure your auto repair methods in order to simplify tasks. This eliminates steps that are both needless and redundant. Optimizing workflow, resources, and communication helps your shop’s efficiency. This will reduce both errors and delays.

Enhancing Your Customers’ Experiences

An efficient repair process creates a better customer experience. Exceed your customers’ trust and foster loyalty by reducing their repair times. Increasing first-time fix rates and offering the best service also help your reputation. Satisfied customers are more likely to both return and recommend your shop to others.

Conclusion: Gauging Processes For Efficiency

Measuring your auto repair processes can both reduce your costs and improve your efficiency. When you track key metrics, find problem areas, and make data driven changes, you can streamline tasks and provide a better customer service experience. Do not count out the impact measurement can have on your overall success.

You Net Results

Contact You Net Results today, so we can begin the process. Book your own free consultation. Brian Gillis and our team will help you to start your shop’s leadership foundation. Our vast network of auto repair shops all work together to build up the industry. Let’s make this month the best month of your whole business life!