Anyone that knows me understands I am direct and to the point person (sometimes I am often accused of being too black and white) because I believe deeply in any message I send out. I see and understand all my messages very clearly. All my messages, however, must be proven and stand the test of time.
This is a very personal message I am asking you to embrace. I have never done this before in an open forum such as the internet, but in this case it is worth every risk anyone could perceive.........this is important and very worth it. It is proven and stands the test of time.
The Aftermarket sector is one of the most genuine of the Automotive Industry. We work hard and we play hard. We have a high standard of morals wanting always to do the right thing for other people because we want to help. It is our character. We criticize many but are always prepared to compromise in order to move things forward. We demand a lot but we are prepared to give a lot. Of all the characteristics of the Aftermarket, nothing is stronger than to say "We truly are a people to people industry". We deal with people, we enjoy people, we support people, we must have people as a constant in our lives; we are the Aftermarket sector of the automotive industry.
For a number of years now, many of my students of my classes have heard me talk about "High Five for Kids". I want to talk about it again but now in the openness of the internet.
This particular charity is a unique stand alone Aftermarket initiative. High Five for Kids is a registered Foundation in Canada. Tax receipts are issued with all donations.
High Five for Kids is focused on "Kids"........only the Aftermarket could think of such a focus in such a unique way to provide happiness and environments that promote what the Aftermarket stands for......people loving and interacting respectfully with people to provide circumstances which allows people to enjoy the moment and create a positive atmosphere.
To date, through the High Five for Kids charity, monies have been raised and sent to under privileged Kids so they can access Day Camps; monies to rebuild playgrounds in small towns and villages; monies to assist in building recreational parks; and provided monies towards hospices that provide shelter and support to families that have been affected by Cancer of young children. All of these recipients (and many others) have been identified by AIA Canada Members Nationwide and H5's have become a support mechanism to those members requesting assistance to make a positive for the young ones in our world and their Families.
As a lifetime member of the Aftermarket industry (35 years) I am urging every shop owner and Jobber in Canada to commit 25 cents from every invoice/repair order they write each month to "High Five for Kids". Look we know business is tough but in tough times we, the Aftermarket, can still find the way to contribute and think of the kids. We as a sector are so drawn to them to ensure they enjoy themselves and are happy in a safe environment. Why? Because we personally can relate to every child experiencing tough times, unhappy times, unfortunate times. Many within the Aftermarket lived it and breathed it. We understand it. H5's accomplishes exactly what we have always wanted to see for Kids in our country who are in the circumstances many of us have experienced.
You can be assured that through AIA Canada 100% of your donation goes directly to this charity.........as it is a non profit Industry Association no money is drawn off the donations for administration and "other things" so many charities are known for. Everything about H5's is volunteered from members of the Aftermarket.
Please get behind this Charity and send in a monthly cheque based on 25 cents per invoice/repair order you wrote the month before payable to "High Five for Kids" c/o AIA Canada 1272 Wellington Street West, Ottawa, Canada K1Y 3A7......
I know we can always make an excuse as to "why I can't do this" but I believe there is more doers of positive things out there in the Aftermarket over the naysayers of criticism and inaction. If you ever would like to ask me any question on this charity, please call my toll free number 1-800-267-5497. If I can not answer your question, I know where to get the answer and I will get back to you. Remember, we are in the people business.
25 cents from every invoice/repair order to High Five for Kids.......a very worthy cause with very little sacrifice.......working together, the Aftermarket is an incredible sector of the Automotive industry because we do make a difference in peoples lives.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Friday, October 8, 2010
Dealing with FEAR in Moving Your Business Forward
Shop owners from Coast to Coast are falling into a rut that produces an immense amount of internal fear. They have not taken the steps required to transition their business from the break down and repair model to the preventative maintenance model of doing business. Instead they hold on to the routines that seem to be familiar to them. Unfortunately those routines from the old business model do not work any more when it comes to growing the shops net income required to move their business forward.
Consider that in a previous BLOG I pointed out that many shop owners look at the better shops and to them, those better shops appear to be lucky. The definition of LUCK is "Laboring Under Correct Knowledge". These progressive shops sought out the knowledge and made the transition into the new world of automotive maintenance.
Well now it is time for shop owners to understand the term FEAR. The definition in business for this word translates into "False Evidence Appearing Real".
Too many shop owners seemingly don't believe the preventative maintenance model is the way to go, therefore they hold on to the old methods of doing business. They believe any change over to the preventative maintenance model could destroy their current customer base in terms of the work the shop does for them and of course they don't want to give those customers and that type of work up. This is not the case what so ever when the business transitions to the new model format.
The math does not lie. Consider that the vehicle technology that has been developed tells us the breakdown and repair model is now out of date. Instead of seeing customers 3 or 4 times a year, the shop will only see them once maybe twice a year on average. This will change shop profitability opportunities dramatically if not properly addressed. The vehicles are built so much better but they must be maintained. Complete vehicle maintenance is very critical today. When the newer vehicles do break down however, the client is extremely inconvenienced. We as an industry can ensure the client does not experience this inconvenience when we "Manage" their vehicle professionally with a preventative maintenance system in place within the shop. It is our professional responsibility to ensure the customer/clients vehicle is safe and reliable. Safe and Reliability management of vehicles produces substantial net income opportunities.
False Evidence (Mis-information not understanding) is misleading these shop owners and it is destroying their current business not to mention the owners self confidence.
Everyone must examine their "Fears" very carefully and understand exactly what is required to move their business forward. It really is not as scary as many people perceive. In fact it is very refreshing to have a new procedure and understanding that reduces stress, brings the shop employees together and grows the business net income.
Consider that in a previous BLOG I pointed out that many shop owners look at the better shops and to them, those better shops appear to be lucky. The definition of LUCK is "Laboring Under Correct Knowledge". These progressive shops sought out the knowledge and made the transition into the new world of automotive maintenance.
Well now it is time for shop owners to understand the term FEAR. The definition in business for this word translates into "False Evidence Appearing Real".
Too many shop owners seemingly don't believe the preventative maintenance model is the way to go, therefore they hold on to the old methods of doing business. They believe any change over to the preventative maintenance model could destroy their current customer base in terms of the work the shop does for them and of course they don't want to give those customers and that type of work up. This is not the case what so ever when the business transitions to the new model format.
The math does not lie. Consider that the vehicle technology that has been developed tells us the breakdown and repair model is now out of date. Instead of seeing customers 3 or 4 times a year, the shop will only see them once maybe twice a year on average. This will change shop profitability opportunities dramatically if not properly addressed. The vehicles are built so much better but they must be maintained. Complete vehicle maintenance is very critical today. When the newer vehicles do break down however, the client is extremely inconvenienced. We as an industry can ensure the client does not experience this inconvenience when we "Manage" their vehicle professionally with a preventative maintenance system in place within the shop. It is our professional responsibility to ensure the customer/clients vehicle is safe and reliable. Safe and Reliability management of vehicles produces substantial net income opportunities.
False Evidence (Mis-information not understanding) is misleading these shop owners and it is destroying their current business not to mention the owners self confidence.
Everyone must examine their "Fears" very carefully and understand exactly what is required to move their business forward. It really is not as scary as many people perceive. In fact it is very refreshing to have a new procedure and understanding that reduces stress, brings the shop employees together and grows the business net income.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
The Independent Sector Can and Will Make The Difference....IF.... WE... Choose to Do So...Where Do You Stand?
The Independent sector of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry time after time has been voted "consumers choice" but I believe we can do so much better to make a "dramatic" impact to the consumer and to do that we first have to acknowledge "together" that we have a lot of work to do.
Unfortunately the sector over the next five years will continue to shrink in numbers of effective outlets but that does not mean ineffectiveness of who and what we are as a total sector. The outlets that disappear would not "get on the bus" to be part of the difference that the consumer could notice and experience. As the saying goes, "You can lead a horse to water but you can not make it drink".
The Independent outlets, however, that continuously raise the bar for the consumer/client experience and retain competent staff that understand the culture of excellence, will be the ones that make the difference. Everyone involved in those shops will reap the personal and financial rewards.
I believe deeply in the Independent shop. My clients have proven time and time again they can not be beaten and they are the best in this great country. They make a huge difference to their clients. They make a sound statement for the Independent sector.
I want to carry this nationally with a unique group of shop owners but I need commitment, not rhetoric, not excuses. I need entrepreneurs who say "We can do this" and ones who believe in themselves to be the very best in their marketplace through example and have the self-discipline to execute guided structure in order to stay there.
I need shop owners who have known me over my 34 years through my various magazine articles, experienced my management courses and believe in what I have shown them.
Here is the meat of this message.......I need shop owners across this country to join me and who will accept monthly unlimited one on one council and coaching........who will make the commitment to be part of an effective confidential Focus Group concept of a maximum of 8 independent shops per group .......a Focus Group which has the monthly accountability structure and where the 8 shop owners meet 2 times per year together in a confidential environment for 2 days behind closed doors in a boardroom format to evaluate each peers business in-depth. The meeting location would require members to travel.
Where are you?? Let's do this!!
It's not "cheap" as any typical shop owner would say using typical industry language and thinking ....however, in reality, it is an investment into yourself and your business......BUT here is the good news..... I will not take you on unless I can find $75K to 100K additional gross profit per year out of your current operations. You will see the right ROI or I won't take you on.
First I can only accept people who have been through my 3 day management course in the last 2 years because only then you understand where we are going and what must now be done in the new economic reality.....so get yourself through a course this Fall....click on the blue tab on the www.aaec.ca website called "Upcoming courses". Yes you most likely will have to travel to get through a course.
Once through the class......let's talk in-depth first to ensure there is business compatibility...... then if we proceed we both will sign a mutual confidentiality agreement, I will then fax or e-mail my basic business questionnaire for you to complete and you will send me your last 4 years financial statements for a complementary business evaluation...........if I can't find the additional GP $ of which I will discuss over the phone with you as to where it is... ..it's not going to happen.
So are you ready for change and serving the consumer to the highest possible level??.......and changing your financial life.......and your personal quality of life????........or are you one of the "industry rhetoric" who simply says "what a sales job". Yes you guys are out there too, I'm very aware of that.
I will do my best for you and when we connect into my Focus Group format, I will not let you down!
Listen to the videos that are on the www.aaec.ca website. If you would like you can e-mail me at greenwood@aaec.ca
Pretty hard core message don't you think?? Are you up for it?? I am!!!
Unfortunately the sector over the next five years will continue to shrink in numbers of effective outlets but that does not mean ineffectiveness of who and what we are as a total sector. The outlets that disappear would not "get on the bus" to be part of the difference that the consumer could notice and experience. As the saying goes, "You can lead a horse to water but you can not make it drink".
The Independent outlets, however, that continuously raise the bar for the consumer/client experience and retain competent staff that understand the culture of excellence, will be the ones that make the difference. Everyone involved in those shops will reap the personal and financial rewards.
I believe deeply in the Independent shop. My clients have proven time and time again they can not be beaten and they are the best in this great country. They make a huge difference to their clients. They make a sound statement for the Independent sector.
I want to carry this nationally with a unique group of shop owners but I need commitment, not rhetoric, not excuses. I need entrepreneurs who say "We can do this" and ones who believe in themselves to be the very best in their marketplace through example and have the self-discipline to execute guided structure in order to stay there.
I need shop owners who have known me over my 34 years through my various magazine articles, experienced my management courses and believe in what I have shown them.
Here is the meat of this message.......I need shop owners across this country to join me and who will accept monthly unlimited one on one council and coaching........who will make the commitment to be part of an effective confidential Focus Group concept of a maximum of 8 independent shops per group .......a Focus Group which has the monthly accountability structure and where the 8 shop owners meet 2 times per year together in a confidential environment for 2 days behind closed doors in a boardroom format to evaluate each peers business in-depth. The meeting location would require members to travel.
Where are you?? Let's do this!!
It's not "cheap" as any typical shop owner would say using typical industry language and thinking ....however, in reality, it is an investment into yourself and your business......BUT here is the good news..... I will not take you on unless I can find $75K to 100K additional gross profit per year out of your current operations. You will see the right ROI or I won't take you on.
First I can only accept people who have been through my 3 day management course in the last 2 years because only then you understand where we are going and what must now be done in the new economic reality.....so get yourself through a course this Fall....click on the blue tab on the www.aaec.ca website called "Upcoming courses". Yes you most likely will have to travel to get through a course.
Once through the class......let's talk in-depth first to ensure there is business compatibility...... then if we proceed we both will sign a mutual confidentiality agreement, I will then fax or e-mail my basic business questionnaire for you to complete and you will send me your last 4 years financial statements for a complementary business evaluation...........if I can't find the additional GP $ of which I will discuss over the phone with you as to where it is... ..it's not going to happen.
So are you ready for change and serving the consumer to the highest possible level??.......and changing your financial life.......and your personal quality of life????........or are you one of the "industry rhetoric" who simply says "what a sales job". Yes you guys are out there too, I'm very aware of that.
I will do my best for you and when we connect into my Focus Group format, I will not let you down!
Listen to the videos that are on the www.aaec.ca website. If you would like you can e-mail me at greenwood@aaec.ca
Pretty hard core message don't you think?? Are you up for it?? I am!!!
Friday, July 23, 2010
Some Shops Just Have All the Luck
Everyone in this industry has heard it over and over from various shop owners and industry personnel...
"Boy does that guy have all the luck; look at the beautiful operation he has. What luck he must have to attract and keep that kind of staff in place. He must of been in the right place at the right time".
Is it not amazing how so many in the Aftermarket justify their circumstances? They always have an excuse seemingly for everything and especially why their shop is not in the top 3 of their community. They just can't seem to find the "luck" they need to make it happen.
A good friend of mine, Mr. Rui Martins from Nova Scotia, brought it all home for me by sharing this; "Bob, you have always said they just don't get it. You push them because you know that they can be so much better at what they do and enjoy a much higher quality of life. You see it in them so you try to slow them down and ask them to take the time to experience and learn how. Then you ask them to implement with self discipline what they were exposed to. You shared the knowledge with me and then you pushed me. Bob I got it figured out. Thank you. I now have all the right relationships in place to ensure I will have all the "luck" I need to succeed in my business and enjoy a better personal lifestyle. Bob, I Labour Under Correct Knowledge."
The nail was hit on the head. Oh it makes all the sense in the world. Working with the correct knowledge will bring all the luck anyone needs; however, consider how many are labouring with out of date knowledge required to run and manage a business in today's challenging climate. They still live in an environment which contain rules that don't work any more. They now don't believe their circumstances or quality of life can get any better. "It is what it is" being the common phrase.
I only wish that they could find the confidence from within to take a chance on him/herself. They don't need a fire under their behind to get them going, they have lost the fire in their gut that gave them desire. If they could muster up a little gut desire and take one more chance on them self, they would then discover how much luck is truly available to them..........luck that can dramatically change their business and quality of life,......... however, they must take the first step. Nothing can happen until that is achieved.
If you know anyone like that why not share this message with them and hopefully they will take a look in the mirror and embrace the meaning of LUCK.
"Boy does that guy have all the luck; look at the beautiful operation he has. What luck he must have to attract and keep that kind of staff in place. He must of been in the right place at the right time".
Is it not amazing how so many in the Aftermarket justify their circumstances? They always have an excuse seemingly for everything and especially why their shop is not in the top 3 of their community. They just can't seem to find the "luck" they need to make it happen.
A good friend of mine, Mr. Rui Martins from Nova Scotia, brought it all home for me by sharing this; "Bob, you have always said they just don't get it. You push them because you know that they can be so much better at what they do and enjoy a much higher quality of life. You see it in them so you try to slow them down and ask them to take the time to experience and learn how. Then you ask them to implement with self discipline what they were exposed to. You shared the knowledge with me and then you pushed me. Bob I got it figured out. Thank you. I now have all the right relationships in place to ensure I will have all the "luck" I need to succeed in my business and enjoy a better personal lifestyle. Bob, I Labour Under Correct Knowledge."
The nail was hit on the head. Oh it makes all the sense in the world. Working with the correct knowledge will bring all the luck anyone needs; however, consider how many are labouring with out of date knowledge required to run and manage a business in today's challenging climate. They still live in an environment which contain rules that don't work any more. They now don't believe their circumstances or quality of life can get any better. "It is what it is" being the common phrase.
I only wish that they could find the confidence from within to take a chance on him/herself. They don't need a fire under their behind to get them going, they have lost the fire in their gut that gave them desire. If they could muster up a little gut desire and take one more chance on them self, they would then discover how much luck is truly available to them..........luck that can dramatically change their business and quality of life,......... however, they must take the first step. Nothing can happen until that is achieved.
If you know anyone like that why not share this message with them and hopefully they will take a look in the mirror and embrace the meaning of LUCK.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Continuing to Say "No" or "Not Now" is Not The Right Answer
Let's face it, the times are different than what you are accustomed to. You have been in business in excess of 10 years and you do not "trust" the industry. Let's consider the new realities:
1). Jobbers and WD's have always said they have an important message for you and they even labeled it under the topic of "Business Management" criteria. You went to their presentation on your valuable time and found out it was nothing more than a sales pitch to move more product that they sell. They even called you an "Installer", of which you are nothing close to being in this new era. You interpret, you diagnose, and you complete a detailed full service which is now customized to your clients needs. You truly are a Professional "Service Provider" in today's realities.
It's time to look for and pay attention to the better Jobbers who have invested in knowledge of your business and now understand that education,...... they now get it. They have taken the time and made the investment to "step outside of the box" and deal with the aftermarket reality and especially it's past history which created nothing but stress and mistrust between the shop owner and the parts supplier. For the supplier, times have dramatically changed and they truly realize the struggle you, as a shop owner, are in, and now, finally, understand the role they must play to ensure your business succeeds. They need you more than ever. You need a great parts supplier more than ever. They will now play a pivotal role in your business, but you also must understand that you play a pivotal role in the future of their business. They want YOU as a client of their parts business. They finally get it. It is time to secure this type of relationship and put the supplier to the test however before fingers are pointed, you too must come to the table for them as they require parts volume paid in full each month. That is their business. He/she either gets it, or he/she does not. YOU either "get it" or you do not!! I believe YOU will know on both fronts! How negative are you in your thinking?
2). Are you, the shop owner, truly the problem? Have times changed so rapidly that you have a tough time to address change yourself especially when it comes to business relationships? Today's business is all about relationships. You are in an industry where "change" is now the norm. You have to understand this and the new era of business relationships and must not bury your head in the sand. That result could end up killing you with stress which in turn affects your personal life and your business life. Change your attitude and embrace change. It isn't easy but you are not alone. You now have key opportunities where you can meet and get together with other shop owners experiencing the same reality and address the future together. Seek these opportunities out. The future is very bright, but you have to be willing to address it. You can not shoot any idea or concept down without proper due diligence. Investigate all the parameters properly. Stop "prejudging" when you have not looked at or tested the facts. Emotions are not reality. That is your past haunting you!
3). We have too many shop owners in the industry who have a huge inferiority complex. They are afraid to enter business courses or address the new reality for fear they will not understand it, OR, "feel" stupid, OR, "look" stupid in class in their mind. Any instructor who does that, take to task immediately..........as you are far from stupid.........you own a shop and you understand complex vehicle technology. That instructor is NOT professional. Get your money back. It is now time to get on with the new learning curve that must be taken BUT you as as shop owner must take the FIRST step. Procrastination is not the answer, it is only an excuse for you to embrace. Why can you go "hunting" for a week to 10 days but you won't address your business for 3 or 4 days??? Come on...admit the facts.
4). Do you feel guilty about being financially successful? I think many shop owners do as their past, since high school, beat them down so much that they can not visualize themselves earning $150K to $200K a year (in 2010 dollars) for their families income out of their business, plus a shop business bottom line, coupled with 6 to 8 weeks holidays per year. They "think" they have to "rip people off" to accomplish that standard or could never happen in my marketplace. WAKE UP.....PLEASE... this is the era of "knowledge" in the aftermarket and you have the opportunity to embrace it and enjoy the outcome as a true "Profession", BUT nothing will happen for you and your family until YOU take the plunge and embrace the change that is here and in front of us today.
Do not use the excuse "sounds great but will not fit in my market"..........stop this excuse driven reason for your circumstances..........people are people and once we address everyone with scincerity, one on one, mountains can be moved.
Please join the new reality and embrace the culture of re-learning the business over again to ensure you can change the quality of your families life and set your business up for a proper sale when it comes to the time to let it go ........it's called succession.
Want proof? Watch the video on my home page www.aaec.ca as Rob Brouwer operating in Ottawa Ontario, unscripted, discusses his experiences.
Got a question? Please do not hesitate to contact me at 1-800-267-5497. This number comes directly to me.
1). Jobbers and WD's have always said they have an important message for you and they even labeled it under the topic of "Business Management" criteria. You went to their presentation on your valuable time and found out it was nothing more than a sales pitch to move more product that they sell. They even called you an "Installer", of which you are nothing close to being in this new era. You interpret, you diagnose, and you complete a detailed full service which is now customized to your clients needs. You truly are a Professional "Service Provider" in today's realities.
It's time to look for and pay attention to the better Jobbers who have invested in knowledge of your business and now understand that education,...... they now get it. They have taken the time and made the investment to "step outside of the box" and deal with the aftermarket reality and especially it's past history which created nothing but stress and mistrust between the shop owner and the parts supplier. For the supplier, times have dramatically changed and they truly realize the struggle you, as a shop owner, are in, and now, finally, understand the role they must play to ensure your business succeeds. They need you more than ever. You need a great parts supplier more than ever. They will now play a pivotal role in your business, but you also must understand that you play a pivotal role in the future of their business. They want YOU as a client of their parts business. They finally get it. It is time to secure this type of relationship and put the supplier to the test however before fingers are pointed, you too must come to the table for them as they require parts volume paid in full each month. That is their business. He/she either gets it, or he/she does not. YOU either "get it" or you do not!! I believe YOU will know on both fronts! How negative are you in your thinking?
2). Are you, the shop owner, truly the problem? Have times changed so rapidly that you have a tough time to address change yourself especially when it comes to business relationships? Today's business is all about relationships. You are in an industry where "change" is now the norm. You have to understand this and the new era of business relationships and must not bury your head in the sand. That result could end up killing you with stress which in turn affects your personal life and your business life. Change your attitude and embrace change. It isn't easy but you are not alone. You now have key opportunities where you can meet and get together with other shop owners experiencing the same reality and address the future together. Seek these opportunities out. The future is very bright, but you have to be willing to address it. You can not shoot any idea or concept down without proper due diligence. Investigate all the parameters properly. Stop "prejudging" when you have not looked at or tested the facts. Emotions are not reality. That is your past haunting you!
3). We have too many shop owners in the industry who have a huge inferiority complex. They are afraid to enter business courses or address the new reality for fear they will not understand it, OR, "feel" stupid, OR, "look" stupid in class in their mind. Any instructor who does that, take to task immediately..........as you are far from stupid.........you own a shop and you understand complex vehicle technology. That instructor is NOT professional. Get your money back. It is now time to get on with the new learning curve that must be taken BUT you as as shop owner must take the FIRST step. Procrastination is not the answer, it is only an excuse for you to embrace. Why can you go "hunting" for a week to 10 days but you won't address your business for 3 or 4 days??? Come on...admit the facts.
4). Do you feel guilty about being financially successful? I think many shop owners do as their past, since high school, beat them down so much that they can not visualize themselves earning $150K to $200K a year (in 2010 dollars) for their families income out of their business, plus a shop business bottom line, coupled with 6 to 8 weeks holidays per year. They "think" they have to "rip people off" to accomplish that standard or could never happen in my marketplace. WAKE UP.....PLEASE... this is the era of "knowledge" in the aftermarket and you have the opportunity to embrace it and enjoy the outcome as a true "Profession", BUT nothing will happen for you and your family until YOU take the plunge and embrace the change that is here and in front of us today.
Do not use the excuse "sounds great but will not fit in my market"..........stop this excuse driven reason for your circumstances..........people are people and once we address everyone with scincerity, one on one, mountains can be moved.
Please join the new reality and embrace the culture of re-learning the business over again to ensure you can change the quality of your families life and set your business up for a proper sale when it comes to the time to let it go ........it's called succession.
Want proof? Watch the video on my home page www.aaec.ca as Rob Brouwer operating in Ottawa Ontario, unscripted, discusses his experiences.
Got a question? Please do not hesitate to contact me at 1-800-267-5497. This number comes directly to me.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Times Are Different...Why Are You Comparing to Last Year?
Shop owners know that things are different this year and in fact so much has changed that measuring the business results against last year or even the year before doesn't make much sense any more.
These are new and very modern times in our sector. Management must relearn the business all over again and coupled with that challenge must also instill new self disciplines to execute differently.
The next 10 years will be a journey, not a trip, as no one can even predict how this Fall and next Winter will play out. Get use to this uneasiness. The new reality is now here.
When you understand the new intricate measurement fundamentals and what is required to be executed on a daily basis today throughout the shop, your stress can come down substantially. The results will fall into place but it will be a much different time frame than what everyone was accustomed to over the past 20 years. Today the old saying concentrate on "getting back to the basics" means so much more than it did even 5 years ago. The basics have changed.
It is when Management and the staff do not understand how to deal with this reality that panic and stress come to the foreground. Everyone is trying to figure out how to redefine themselves. I see this in the Jobber business as well.
There is no silver bullet to fix your business and create instant sustainable profitability. Any one who says they have the quick fix solution does not understand the complexity of running a shop business today.
Take a good look as to where you are today. Take a good look as to where you will be 5 years from now based on your current Management methods. Are your methods proven and will they guarantee your financial future or are you saying to yourself "I hope they work, I'm just not sure"?
The solutions for a sustainable future are available to you but you must make the time, put in the effort to experience them........... and oh yes.....learn them. Seek them out and make the effort, I'm confident you will not be disappointed.
These are new and very modern times in our sector. Management must relearn the business all over again and coupled with that challenge must also instill new self disciplines to execute differently.
The next 10 years will be a journey, not a trip, as no one can even predict how this Fall and next Winter will play out. Get use to this uneasiness. The new reality is now here.
When you understand the new intricate measurement fundamentals and what is required to be executed on a daily basis today throughout the shop, your stress can come down substantially. The results will fall into place but it will be a much different time frame than what everyone was accustomed to over the past 20 years. Today the old saying concentrate on "getting back to the basics" means so much more than it did even 5 years ago. The basics have changed.
It is when Management and the staff do not understand how to deal with this reality that panic and stress come to the foreground. Everyone is trying to figure out how to redefine themselves. I see this in the Jobber business as well.
There is no silver bullet to fix your business and create instant sustainable profitability. Any one who says they have the quick fix solution does not understand the complexity of running a shop business today.
Take a good look as to where you are today. Take a good look as to where you will be 5 years from now based on your current Management methods. Are your methods proven and will they guarantee your financial future or are you saying to yourself "I hope they work, I'm just not sure"?
The solutions for a sustainable future are available to you but you must make the time, put in the effort to experience them........... and oh yes.....learn them. Seek them out and make the effort, I'm confident you will not be disappointed.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
HAVE YOU STARTED ADJUSTING TO THE NEW SERVICE REALITY?
Shop owners and Managers must adjust their business processes to address today's vehicle service realities.
Consider the higher quality of fluids and synthetics that are now being used today in all vehicles.
Consider vehicle manufacturers are now recommending 10,000, 20,000 even 30,000 kilometers between oil changes.
This means that there will be many cases where the shop sees the customer/client twice or maybe only once a year as we move forward depending on their annual driving distance and habits.
This raises a concern for 2 key vehicle issues, namely, safety and reliability.
If you have not done so, it is time to start discussions and to educate every customer/client the importance of having a thorough semi-annual vehicle inspection. The semi-annual date should be booked before the client leaves, with the shop following up within a week of the date to ensure it is still convenient for the client. If not, re-schedule.
Too many shops are not taking charge of their client base and managing their vehicle service properly. They rely on the client to remember to come back.
The fact is the consumer is too busy and has enough to look after in their own lives. The last thing most consumers think about is vehicle maintenance, in fact, vehicle maintenance has been neglected since the start of the recession. It is similar to the thought, if I'm feeling OK, there is no need to call my doctor for a check-up. The same now has happened with vehicles. They are built over all with a higher quality, so they just don't breakdown or require the frequency of service the way they used to 10 to 20 years ago. If it's running, everything is fine, why should I contact the garage for service?
As a Professional Service Provider you must understand what type of customer/client you are dealing with and what are their personal parameters in regards to servicing their vehicle? We must take the responsibility to do our best to ensure they are never compromising safety or are inconvenienced.
This opens the debate as to whether we should have mandatory annual vehicle inspections across the country and who is legally authorized to take an unsafe vehicle off the road? I am totally supportive of that concept of legislation. It is a safety issue. Some of the vehicles driving on the road today are outright dangerous. The annual date for an inspection to be completed could be on the individuals birthday; not everyone all at once by a given month as that would create chaos in a shop. This concept is urgent, however, it is for another blog as we move forward in this industry.
Review your front counter processes and your back end inspection procedures and reporting processes. Are you up to date with today's realities and your Professional responsibilities?
Consider the higher quality of fluids and synthetics that are now being used today in all vehicles.
Consider vehicle manufacturers are now recommending 10,000, 20,000 even 30,000 kilometers between oil changes.
This means that there will be many cases where the shop sees the customer/client twice or maybe only once a year as we move forward depending on their annual driving distance and habits.
This raises a concern for 2 key vehicle issues, namely, safety and reliability.
If you have not done so, it is time to start discussions and to educate every customer/client the importance of having a thorough semi-annual vehicle inspection. The semi-annual date should be booked before the client leaves, with the shop following up within a week of the date to ensure it is still convenient for the client. If not, re-schedule.
Too many shops are not taking charge of their client base and managing their vehicle service properly. They rely on the client to remember to come back.
The fact is the consumer is too busy and has enough to look after in their own lives. The last thing most consumers think about is vehicle maintenance, in fact, vehicle maintenance has been neglected since the start of the recession. It is similar to the thought, if I'm feeling OK, there is no need to call my doctor for a check-up. The same now has happened with vehicles. They are built over all with a higher quality, so they just don't breakdown or require the frequency of service the way they used to 10 to 20 years ago. If it's running, everything is fine, why should I contact the garage for service?
As a Professional Service Provider you must understand what type of customer/client you are dealing with and what are their personal parameters in regards to servicing their vehicle? We must take the responsibility to do our best to ensure they are never compromising safety or are inconvenienced.
This opens the debate as to whether we should have mandatory annual vehicle inspections across the country and who is legally authorized to take an unsafe vehicle off the road? I am totally supportive of that concept of legislation. It is a safety issue. Some of the vehicles driving on the road today are outright dangerous. The annual date for an inspection to be completed could be on the individuals birthday; not everyone all at once by a given month as that would create chaos in a shop. This concept is urgent, however, it is for another blog as we move forward in this industry.
Review your front counter processes and your back end inspection procedures and reporting processes. Are you up to date with today's realities and your Professional responsibilities?
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