Mistakes that GMs make that you want to avoid!
general manager
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As business coaching company for auto repair shop owners, one crucial aspect we’ve seen shops neglect is measuring processes. Precision helps shop owners find issues, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. This article stresses computing auto repair processes, so let’s dive in!
Introduction: Insights Into Efficiency
Running an auto repair shop comes with its own set of challenges. From handling customer expectations to making complex repairs, there is a lot on a shop owner’s plate. However, many shop owners don’t realize the power of gauging the steps taken for each repair. You can gain valuable insights into your operations and make data-driven choices by tracking and analyzing key metrics.
Importance of Measuring Auto Repair Processes
Identifying Inefficiencies
Measuring auto repair processes shines a light on shortfalls that cost your shop both time and money. Pinpoint 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 indicate a need for either more training or better workflow.
Reducing Cost
Cost control is a top priority for any business owner. Auto repair shops are no exception. Measuring your repair processes helps identify ways to save money. Analyze metrics like technician yield and parts usage. Those could uncover expenses to reduce, all without losing quality. This can then lead to big savings over time.
Improving Efficiency
Efficiency is vital to running a successful auto repair shop. Measuring each process helps you identify holdups and simplify operations. By tracking metrics related to workflow and resource usage, you can adjust them in order to optimize efficiency. This leads to both faster turnaround times, and increased customer satisfaction. Not to mention higher profits!
Implementing a Measurement System to Increase Efficiency
Installing a measurement system for your auto repair processes requires careful planning and execution. Follow the steps below:
Define Your Goals
Start by clearly stating your goals. What specific outcomes do you want to achieve? Examples could include reducing cycle time by 20%, or increasing the first-time fix rate to 90%. Define clear goals in order to guide your measurement efforts.
Select Appropriate Metrics
Choose metrics that both align with your goals and provide the right insights. Consider critical metrics like cycle time, first time fix rate, technician output, and customer satisfaction. Tailor the metrics to your shop’s unique needs and goals.
Collecting and Analyzing Data
Establish a way to collect and analyze your chosen metrics’ data. You may need to use niche software or manual tracking methods. 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. Regularly review the data and note your problem areas. Work with your team to write action plans and make changes, in order to address shortfalls and improve every aspect of your business.
Benefits of Measuring Auto Repair Processes
The perks of gauging your auto repair processes are numerous. Here are some rewards you can expect:
Identifying What’s Blocking Your Efficiency
When you measure your repair actions, you can identify bottlenecks that hinder workflow. Does a specific repair task take too long? Do you have too few resources? Then address these shortfalls for the highest efficiency.
Streamlining Operations
Measure your auto repair approaches in order to streamline tasks. This eliminates steps that are both needless and redundant. Optimizing workflow, resources, and communication improves your overall efficiency. This will reduce both errors and delays.
Enhancing Customer Experience
A precise, efficient repair process creates a better customer experience. Exceed customer trust and foster loyalty by reducing repair times, increasing first-time fix rates, and delivering exceptional service. Satisfied customers are more likely to both return and recommend your shop to others.
Conclusion: Measuring Processes For Efficiency
Measuring your auto repair processes can both reduce costs and improves efficiency. When you track key metrics, find problem areas, and make data driven changes, you can streamline tasks and provide a better customer service. Don’t count out the impact measurement can have on success.
You Net Results
Contact You Net Results today to begin the process. Book a complimentary consultation. Brian Gillis and our team will help you start your leadership foundation. Our vast network of auto repair shops works together to build up the industry. Let’s make August the best month of your business life!
Breaking Down Workflow and what the GM needs to be aware of and focused on.
1. Parts (inventory, ordered, when arriving)
2. Proper dispatching.
3. Speed of service
4. Sense of urgency.
5. Customer Satisfaction
6. Margins
7. Proper documentation
8. Board huddles
9. Proper sales techniques
10. Time management
11. Transportation solicitations
12. Quality Control
13. Proper phone skills
Finding the best drivers “gears” for General Manager
- Focus on workflow
- Communications skills
- Numbers knowledge
- Awareness Factor
- Aggressive vs passive
- Hands off method
- Helicopter view
- Planning and organization skills
How to create the General Manager Position as a Process
- Six Balls a General Manager juggles masterfully
- Must items for a General Manager
- Attributes for Success
See “Top Ten” SOP 307 below as a reference.
- Being and Becoming a Crushing General Manager “CGM”
- Six Balls / Must Items / Top Ten / Attributes
- General Manager Sample Duties List See DropBox SOPs
Downloads
Auto repair shop management doesn’t have to be a mystery. Long time automotive business coach Gary Gunn shares his decades of automotive industry experience running multiple shops with you! When you take Gary’s and head coach Brian Gillis’ advice to heart, you will put your business systems in place and see results in no time!
Defining Auto Repair Shop Management – How Is It Different From Leadership?
Gary opens the clip, polling the group on the difference between auto repair shop management and leadership.
Pam believes that managing is staying on top of details and keeping staff on top of their tasks. Fred believes Leaders hand down goals and processes to Managers. Then the Managers use the SOPs to guide the people.
Joe defines the Leadership role as one who sets the pace and tone for the shop’s business. Management then manipulates the Technicians and Service Advisors to execute the Leader’s vision. Joe clarifies that the staff roles are similar to that of military ranks. As the owner and leader, he recognizes the strengths of each employee in their positions.
Jerry continues by agreeing with all the previous points. He then adds that Auto Repair Shop Management means overseeing the systems and processes, so Mechanics and Service Writers can do their thing.
Gary also reminds us that people do not want to be managed. They can’t! That method of management always reduces people to robots. Effective managers should manage the systems, so the SOPs themselves can manage the people.
Learn More – Get Your FREE Strategy Session
Does your independent automotive shop lack a clear vision? Maybe your business plan has stalled out. You need an experienced automotive industry coach to help you. Then why not schedule a FREE business strategy session with Brian? You’ve got nothing to lose, so sign up today!
General Manager Duties & How-TOs #0305
- Identify the duties of our GM
- Identify the How-TOs to make it happen
- Create an accountability list of items for training and measurement of the duties
Downloads
SOP Formation and Review
WOIT Discussion and Notes Formation and Review
- LD-YNR – 0118-7 – SOP – Ensuring Excellent Operations (page 119)
- Linebacker position / General Manager
