In this episode of The Weekly Blitz, Coach Chris Cotton explains best practices on how Leaders Distinguish Themselves During Tough Times.Specifically, he'll cover:What is a Leader to DoMaking The Tough Callsa. The Tough Call Demands Riskb. A Tough Call Brings with It and Inward Battlec. A Tough Call Will Distinguish You as a LeaderRising to the OccasionApplication Exercisesa. Have you aimed the tough calls in the past?b. Are you prepared to win the battle within?c. Are you playing it too safe as a leader?Finally, your Mentoring Moment. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes, Apple Podcasts and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! This episode is sponsored by AutoLeap. AutoLeap is a cloud-based all-in-one automotive invoice software that helps you supercharge your mechanic shop. Their customers have experienced:30% increase in revenue by improving transparency and trust50% reduction in time spent researching and ordering parts10% increase in profit margins through robust reportingClick here to learn more about AutoLeap and schedule a demo:AutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MConnect with Chris:[email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0aeCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

ProfitsProcesses & ProceduresCash FlowDon’t buy into the BullshitSpending Money where it needs to be spent AKA not spending it where you don’t Transparency with EmployeesTraining & StaffingHold your people accountable/active coachingStop sitting on the sidelines because it's easy and get back in the game! Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Today our guest is Chris Cotton, owner of AutoFix Auto Repair Coaching, and also the host of The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton - which is also part of Aftermarket Radio NetworkMost often when a shop owner starts seeking out marketing options they’re doing it because they perceive they have a car-count problem. There are certainly cases where that is true, but there’s more to revenue than car count. In fact, there’s much more to the success of a shop than revenue. Revenue definitely solves a lot of problems, but let’s talk today about some other ways to make your shop more successful.Talking PointsAverage repair order and profit margin need to be optimized before you try to fix a broken business with marketing.What is your average estimate?Your job as the shop owner is to drive processes and procedures.Good marketing isn’t cheap and will not provide a return if you’re not maximizing the cars you already have.Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Podcast - Are You a Thermostat or a Thermometer?How To Get In Touch with ChrisWebsite - https://autoshopcoaching.com Email - [email protected] Phone - (580) 491-3519How To Get In Touch with Kim and Brian WalkerGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros Questions/Ideas - [email protected] Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE

You aren’t alone if you’re looking for ways to exit the funk and approach your life and your work with positivity. If you can successfully address your own health and happiness, you can pass it on to your team. Here are seven books that will get you on your way.1. The Leader’s Playlist by Susan Drumm2. From Burnout to Purpose by Gina S. Calvado3. First Things First by Stephen R. Covey, A. Roger Merrill, Rebecca R. Merrill4. The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon5. Leading with Emotional Courage by Peter Bregman6. The Ultimate Anxiety Toolkit by Risa Williams7. Deskbound by Dr. Kelly Starrett, Juliet Starrett and Glen CordozaThis has been Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix, Auto Shop Coaching, reminding you that it never always gets worse but sometimes it has to get worse to get better! And remember don't stop working today because tomorrow needs you! Please feel free to reach out to me: [email protected] or call me @ 940.400.1008 Time to rise and grind everyone! Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Think about everyday decisions, goals, and events in your life, you generally have two ways to respond, you can either:Resist the situationSupport the situationThe Optimist Advantage:Lowers Anxiety and StressLowers Blood PressureSelf CareStaying Youthful High PerformanceSo What Can We Do to be Optimistic?Change the Dialogue - Pay attention to the things you say to yourself (and to others) as well as what you say about yourselfThe old man quickly answered: “Well, the Good Book often says, ‘And it came to pass,’ but never once does it say, ‘It came to stay.’”Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Chris' Favorite Things1. Walmart GoLocal2. Ortho3. Mahle Lift4. LearnProCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Keep Learning to Keep Leading!How will you grow?1. Invest in Yourself First2. Be a Continual Learner3. Create a Growth Environment for the People You LeadThe People Difference."Leadership & Learning are indispensable of each other." John F. KennedyCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

AutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MDon't Manage Your Time, manage Your Life! Time for a change in perspective!Good Leaders Cannot Be Bad Self-ManagersPeople who manage themselves poorly are often guilty of the following 3 things:1. They undervalue their uniqueness doing what others want them to do. 2. They ryin their effectiveness by doing un-important things. 3. They reduce their potential by doing things without coaching or training. Application Exercises:1. Are you squandering your time?2. Are you getting help where you need it?3. How do you decide to spend your time?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Please take 7 minutes out of your busy schedule to listen to this one! This is my gift to you on MY birthday: Are you counting your marbles? Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

It’s time to reflect on how this past year went; what did you accomplish? What fell through the cracks and why. After you’ve done that, It’s time to think about what you want to accomplish in 2023 and set things in motion to ensure you achieve those things. Also, time to think about year-end evaluations for all staff members. Are there people that don’t need to be on your staff? If so, don't carry those people into the new year. Also, don’t be afraid to let those people go now. It’s not ok to keep them on the payroll just because you feel bad about letting them go “during the holidays”Also, when was the last time you did a labor rate analysis? When was the last time you raised your labor rate and adjusted it and your parts matrix for inflation?Also, time to evaluate Job Descriptions/Employee Handbooks/Training Programs etc….Tax Planning---Have you been talking with your accountant all year and or been making quarterly payments on your taxes? If not, do you have money set aside to pay your taxes?Next, let’s talk about Compliance and give you a checklist of things to do for your business at the end of the year. Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Mentorship programs are a highly effective method of employee development. When done well, promoting mentorship within organizations can have a real positive impact. In fact, 88% of mentors and mentees agree that their productivity increased due to their mentoring experience.Let’s look at what makes mentorship programs successful and how you can set up a great mentoring program at your organization.Mentorship programs are structured learning relationships set up within an organization. They aim to provide employees with guidance from other employees with specific skills and knowledge. Types of mentorship programsWhy mentorship programs are so importantHow to create a successful mentorship programCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

What exactly does the term ownership really say to us when we see it describe a house that's currently on the market and being sold? Well, to me, it means that the individuals living there had been proud to have been home owners and once you see the house, you'll realize how proud they really were. So, when someone says that a house shows "pride in ownership," we know that the homeowner has taken great care to maintain their house. Such as making sure that things are fixed as soon as they break, as opposed to years later when everything has begun to fall apart. 1. Satisfaction And Engagement2. Satisfaction With Leaders:3. A General Sense Of Fairness In The Organization4. The Organization Is A Good Corporate Citizen:5. Career Success, Growth And Development: Having a strong sense of pride in the organization you work for may seem trivial, but it can do much to impact bottom-line results. Proud employees are less likely to quit, more likely to recommend the organization as a good place to work, and often do an excellent job of marketing company products to others. You’ll also be hearing a lot less of the infamous and telling statement, “It’s not in my job description.”Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

1. Admit Your Own Mistakes and Weaknesses. 2. Accept Mistakes as the Price of Progress.3. Insist on Learning from Your Mistakes.4. Ask Yourself and Others, What Are We Missing? 5. Give the People Around You Permission to Push Back. Application ExercisesMentoring MomentCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

80/20 Principle! Finding The Main Thing1. I Determined Not to Know Everything2. I Determined Not to Know Everything First3. I Determined to Let Someone Represent Me4. I am Determined to Stay with My strengths and Not Work on my Weaknesses. 5. I Determined to Take Charge of What Took My Time and Attention"Genius is the ability to reduce the complicated to the simple"Application ExercisesMentoring MomentCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Why is reaching out for help so hard for so many people? Let’s break down the barriers and formalities and dive into what the first call to a business coach can be like. I’m with Aftermarket Radio Network host Coach Chris Cotton at ASTE 2022. Look, you don’t have a hobby you have a business that needs your attention to profitability. Never stop improving yourself and your business. Embrace accountability partners, peer groups, and coaching, and watch what you can do. Chris Cotton, AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching, Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz Podcast Key Talking Points People who don't reach out for help end up out of business or stuck not knowing what they need to know and not able to grow Chris asks a lot of open-ended questions on the first call and asks what prompted them to reach out and what struggles you have in your business.  If you're not afraid to disappoint someone, then accountability does nothing Join peer meetings and start networking to grow as the industry evolves KPI is used to measure strategy and leadership improvements Motivate, connect, and teach the younger generation A lot of people use work as an escape or release. Show love within your organization Hug until the other person breaks the embrace- are people hugging longer these days? Take criticization as a stepping stone to level up Reset your mind to be ready for the next thing Connect with the Podcast: Aftermarket Radio Network Subscribe on YouTube Visit us on the Web Follow on Facebook Become an Insider Buy me a coffee Important Books Check out today's partners: Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2022. Mark your calendar now … November 1-3, 2022, AAPEX - Now more than ever. And don’t miss the next free AAPEX webinar. Register now at AAPEXSHOW.COM/WEBINAR. Shop-Ware: More Time. More Profit. Shop-Ware Shop Management getshopware.com <a href="https://aftermarketradionetwork.com" target="_blank"...

Employee Training, Where Are You Headed Next?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Shop owners making decisions on people procrastinate and hurt their business without listening to what their gut is telling them. Your people know!Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Leadership Gold: Chapter 10, Don't Send Your Ducks to Eagle School! Three Reasons Not To Send Your Ducks to Eagle School1. If you send ducks to eagle school, you will frustrate the ducks. 2. If you send ducks to eagle school, you will frustrate the eagles. 3. If you send ducks to eagle school, you will frustrate yourselfKnow what you are looking for!Application ExercisesMentoring MomentCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

To see how the leader is doing, look at the people! The Leader is Responsible! Revealing Questions to ask about Followers:1. Are the people following?2. Are the people changing?3. ARe the people growing?4. Are the people succeeding?Application Exercises:1. Are your people follwing you?2. How do you keep score?3. Do you believe in your people?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

Overcoming the Victim MindsetWhat is a victim mindset?A victim mindset is when someone feels that bad things keep happening to them no matter what. at the root of this mentality is that none of these circumstances or situations are their fault.What causes a victim mindset?----------No one is born a victim. A victim complex isn't a personality trait — it's learned behavior. In fact, victim syndrome could be considered a type of learned helplessness. Learned helplessness is a phenomenon in psychology where people who have traumatic experiences feel that they can't escape it, no matter what they do. Here are some circumstances that might result in developing a victim mindset as a coping mechanism:Trauma-------If a person has experienced a traumatic situation in their youth, they may feel like life is inherently difficult and there's nothing they can do to make it better. This is a key way that learned helplessness develops. Victims may feel that no one understands them or that they can't trust anyone to help them. Manipulation------Some people enjoy the attention and sense of control that victimhood brings. Even though they feel like they lack control over the circumstances in their life, they thrive on validation and sympathy from others. Being able to get other people to stop and help them — or at the very least, feel sorry for them — helps them retain a sense of importance and control. Lack of accountability--------People may respond to low standards or expectations by playing the victim. Whether because someone else has always stepped up to take responsibility, or because people don’t expect much, being “out of control” becomes comfortable. Victimhood provides anonymity and protection. When you’re never at the wheel, things are never your fault. Avoidance--------Sometimes we are more afraid of our own success then we are of our failure. Giving up responsibility for ourselves and our actions makes us feel like we don't have to be accountable for what we say we want. Chasing our dreams requires a degree of vulnerability, resilience, self-confidence, and willingness to grow — none of which you need if you just play the victim card.Take your life back into your hands----It can be hard to feel like your life is under your control when bad things keep happening. This is especially true when success feels slow — and failure feels overwhelming. Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

I do not believe that anyone that works in the Automotive Service and Repair Industry would argue with the fact that there is a shortage of good technicians in our industry. In fact, 9 out of 10 shops that we work with today (or for that matter in our industry) need a good technician and I would also say that for 10% to 20% of those shops the lack of good technicians is a serious problem causing them to lose customers, profits and sleep. So Why are we in this position?That’s great Chris, Now what’s the solution?First: We make it cool to become a technician/mechanic and we dramatically increase the pay for every technician in the industry immediately. Second: We take $5 of the increase and make sure we have a full benefit package.Third: We take the other $5 of the increase and join a non-profit organization that will market to the mothers and fathers out there!Lastly, every shop owner books an appointment at a college, auto tech school or high school and ‘volunteer’ their time to talk to the students, teachers and administrators about our incredible industry.Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

This is a tough one! Me talking about defining moments in my life. You're just going to have to listen to find out more. IF suicidal and or domestic violence situations could trigger you, then you may choose not to listen. Also, I use my everyday adult language..........if you need help, ask for it. There are people that can help you get what you need. I love you and wish you all the best.......................don't ever forget that! 988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now known as the 988 Suicide &amp; Crisis Lifeline), and is now active across the United States. https://988lifeline.orgNational Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

The gang’s all here; we have the entire Aftermarket Radio Network together for an important episode inspired by the movie Moneyball. We all have experience with people who are not our top performers, but are we better to have them on the team than not? You know them; they are consistent, reliable, steady, and contributors. Are they worth replacing? Will they become the best or top performers, or do they help strengthen our overall performance? A great discussion among your peers. Watch the Episode on YouTube Hunt Demarest, CPA, Paar Mellis and Associates, Business by the Numbers Podcast Matt Fanslow, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN, Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Podcast Kim and Brian Walker, Shop Marketing Pros, Auto Repair Marketing Podcast Chris Cotton, AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching, Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz Podcast Key Talking Points What REALLY contributes to production? Simpson Paradox Simon Sinec points out that Navy Seal teams value Trustworthiness far, far more than Performance.  VIDEO HERE  Tech productivity is one of the most important aspects of business, but how can these numbers skew what that employee is really doing (helping others, sharing duties outside of production, etc.) Are there some numbers or metrics that actually can look too good, which could cause an issue for growth or retention Numbers don’t lie, but sometimes can be misleading. Do your numbers match up with what you are trying to do with the business? You have to have your head up and eyes wide open to make sure you can identify the "doers" in your group.  Do you have a scorecard for success for your technicians? Pay plans; incentive greatness Who are your ‘support people' to contribute and make the whole picture better Culture is contagious Training when hiring- <li style="font-weight:...

Let’s start with: What is Success? The accomplishment of an aim or purpose. If you’re struggling to define what a successful life means, I have two pieces of good news for you:It’s never too late to start over.You get to write your own definition of success.1. What is success to you?2. Success has no deadline!!3. What does success mean to me?4. What does success mean to you?5. What does success look like?6. How do you define success?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M

AutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MThe Rest of the StoryAs leaders, we always face criticism. We dish it out too. Some of it is helpful, and some of it is not. Like medicine, it all depends on administration and dose. But here’s the problem: If we’re quick to judge, we’re upping the odds that we’ll misdiagnose and seriously hurt someone.With that in mind, there are at least three reasons we should be slow to judge.1. WE SOMETIMES DON’T HAVE THE FULL STORY2. WE OFTEN PROJECT OUR OWN ISSUES3. WE USUALLY REGRET IT LATERCriticism is like medicine. It’s poison unless carefully administered at the right dose. Michael HyattCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

The winds are changing, something’s coming, not sure exactly what just yet but let’s talk it out and see what we can do. I’m also trying to make a general statement about how shop owners seem to be doing really well right now and are maybe just a bit too big for their britches at this point. 1. As we're more successful and get a little fat and happy our expenses "creep" take a look at your expenses and get rid of "wants" and only keep the "needs". 2. Stop being distracted and focus on what got you through covid! All processes and procedures need to be scrutinized, improved and followed and you need to hold your employees accountable. 3. Credit.............I think the biggest issue will be people running out of money. We will have to have ways for customers to be able to pay us when all of their other ways have been exhausted.4. We have to be prepared to do things in new and inventive ways, don't get stuck in the: I've always done it this way! 5. Pay attention to the world around you: 6. Pay Off Existing Debt7. Understand Your Numbers8. Expand Your Customer Base9. Cut Expenses10. Set Aside Money11. Manage Inventory12. Diversify Your Marketing Channels13. Establish a success attitude! 14. How do you Think About Credit?Preparation Is Key! Preparation is the key to surviving a recession. Focus on these ways to ready your business for uncertain financial times. You want to employ strategies that will land you on top and allow your business to continue growing even during the most challenging economic periods.I’m challenging you to be a gorilla in a world of Monkees…………time to rise and grind everyone!! Coach Chris CottonSponsored by AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching: AutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Leadership Gold - A Leader's First Responsibility Is to Define RealityAutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MChapter 8: Leader’s First Responsibility is to Define RealityYou Can't Define What You Don't SeeQuestions to ask yourself to help you define reality. Guarding Against Unrealistic Thinking:Admit My WeaknessEmbrace Realistic PeopleAsk for Honesty From OthersInvite Fresh Eyes to Check You OutApplication Exercises:What kind of thinker are you?Who speaks the truth in your life?Where do you need a reality check?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Leadership Gold: Get In The Zone &amp; Stay There! AutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MChapter 8: Leader’s First Responsibility is to Define RealityYou Can't Define What You Don't SeeQuestions to ask yourself to help you define reality. Guarding Against Unrealistic Thinking:1. Admit My Weakness2. Embrace Realistic People3. Ask for Honesty From Others4. Invite Fresh Eyes to Check You OutApplication Exercises:1. What kind of thinker are you?2. Who speaks the truth in your life?3. Where do you need a reality check?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Production Apprentice Program for Auto ShopsAutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MWhy a Production Apprentice….1. We have to start somewhere and change the stigma etc….of just a lube tech2. We have to get these folks in a production mindset3. We have to make sure that our current producers are producing and the best way to do that is to eliminate the stops and starts that make them unproductive. 4. One of the top two reasons why people leave when asked on exit interviews is because they didn’t receive the training they thought they were going to get or they didn’t understand what their future looked like. Production Apprentice Daily Tasks: Make sure that everyone is set up for success every day.Walk in with a positive Can-Do attitude! We have no place for Can’t-Do’s in our business.Make sure to pull out all vehicles not needed in the shop. Make sure that your area is cleaned and ready to go. Check-in with the supervisor to see what is pressing and important and what direction you should move first. What is your daily schedule?Check with the supervisor for the To Do List for the day.To end the day make sure the shop is clean and ready for the following day.

Leadership Gold - The Best Leaders are ListenersAutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MThe Best Leaders Are ListenersWhy Listeners Are More Effective Leaders1. Understanding People Precedes Leading Them2. Listening Is The Best Way to Learn3. Listening Can Keep Problems from Escalating4. Listening Establishes Trust5. Listening Can Improve the OrganizationApplication Exercises:1. Give Yourself A Listening Audit2. Who Doesn't Feel Listened to?3. What people have you neglected to seek out?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

AutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MFollow Your Passion, Creating A Breakthrough, Forget the Money, Follow Your Passion.Application Exercise:1. What is your true passion?2. How much passion do you have for your current work?3. How can you follow your passion?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Link for AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MScorecard for Success - Chris Cotton Weekly BlitzWhat is a Scorecard for Success?Step 1: This first step, in the beginning, is to begin!Step 2: Identify 5-Scorecard Categories and a maximum of 3 scorecards.Step 3: Put a weekly goal on each category.Step 4: Assign each goal to a department and the team members in that department.Step 5: Assign a Scorecard keeper.Step 6: Use the Scorecard each week.Step 7: Review the Scorecard.Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Link for AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MStop Putting Yourself Last - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz1. Stop Being the Martyr2. The Trouble with Selflessness (more concerned with the needs of others)3. How Selflessness Becomes an Excuse4. Finding the BalanceCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Leadership Gold: You Know You're Out Front When ...Link for AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MHow do YOU handle criticism?How to Hold Up Under Criticism:1. Know Yourself2. Change Yourself3. Accept Yourself 4. Forget YourselfApplication Exercises:1. What are your deficiencies?2. How secure are you as a leader?3. How can you properly process criticism?Mentoring Moment: Observe how others handle criticism and share your feedback with them!Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Defining Moments Define Your LeadershipLink for AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MDefining Moments Define Your Leadership1. Defining Moments Show Us Who We Really Are.2. Defining moments declare to others who we are. 3. Defining moments determine who we will become. 4. Reflect on defining moments from the past.5. Prepare for future defining moments. 6. Make the Most of defining moments in the present. Application Exercises:1. What is your track record?2. How are you managing your decisions?3. How prepared are you for your future defining moments?Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

We’re talking Exit interviews. Some shop owners do them religiously. Some don’t want to face the music. Some don’t know what to do in an exit interview.&nbsp;Is it a smart time not to burn a bridge? Is there a format to follow? We are going to attempt to answer these questions and more in today’s Town Hall Academy. You can learn a lot about yourself and your company in exit interviews.Watch the Episode on YouTubeMatt Fanslow, lead diagnostician and shop manager, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN. Matt’s previous episodes&nbsp;HEREMatt Fanslow Podcast: Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to ZChris Cotton,&nbsp;AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz PodcastKey Talking Points Think of it as information gathering.&nbsp; We think nothing of gathering information to go about repairing a vehicle, be it a customer interview, service information search, or data collection via a scan tool or scope, or meter.&nbsp; It's getting more and more common to ask clients for reviews.&nbsp; We want good reviews on our sites, or on Google or Facebook and we want bad reviews to go to us immediately so they can be rectified and hopefully earn a "good" review. People leave people, not companies Winning sports team- winning is a salve for everything If a soon-to-be or former employee just doesn't want to talk to you about their time with you, it may be a sign that your "open door policy" isn't nearly as open as you thought. Your role in an exit interview, as the owner or manager, is to shut up and listen.&nbsp; Ask questions.&nbsp; The only statements you really should be making is maybe clearing up real misunderstandings, earnestly asking questions, and thanking them for their time with you working AND talking to you.&nbsp; Take the information and try very hard to look at it purely at face value, and then after a day or two or a week, come back to it and try to put yourself in their shoes/boots and read between the lines.&nbsp; Don't let your imagination get too crazy, but with those two perspectives, you should be able to extract information that is true and applicable to improving your business and work environment. There are not enough exit interviews done We value customer reviews why not employees on an exit interview The company should have a formal policy regarding exit interviewing. Must have a policy and or procedure. The same list of questions for all departing employees etc.... Not emotional.....hard part about smaller businesses is that the direct report usually does the interview, if at all possible have a neutral party conduct the interview, you can even outsource it if it fits in your budget to do so&nbsp; if you think of this in marketing terms this is a retention tool, not an acquisition tool. You need to listen to the employees as they leave and then think about your current employees, how can you use the information gathered in order to keep the employees you have...

Are You CoachableAutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M8 Point Check on Your Coachability . . Which of these are true and to what extent? 1. I usually allow my manager and others to complete their sentences before responding. 2. When I’m given feedback/ criticism, I usually think about it before responding, waiting just a bit. 3. When I’m given feedback/ criticism, I rarely find myself defending a position or action immediately. 4. When I’m given feedback/ criticism, I ask questions about it in order to try to better understand it. (A good sign.) 5. I feel my work’s purpose is to serve my external customers. 6. I feel my work’s purpose is to serve my internal customers (managers, colleagues, other departments). 7. I’ve changed/ revised my position/ approach because of the advice of another individual. 8. My manager invests time in my professional development (If s/he doesn’t, it might be because of a perception that you’re uncoachable).Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Please take a minute to check out our sponsor, AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MLeadership Gold, Chapter Two; The Toughest Person to Lead is Yourself! 1. Judging Yourself:a. We don't see ourselves as we see others. b. We are harder on others than we are on oursleves. 2. Keys to Leading Yourselfa. Learn Followershipb. Develop Self Disciplinec. Practice Patienced. Seek AccountabilityAccountability Exercises:1. How Clearly do you see yourself?2. Where do you need to grow?3. How well do you take advice?Mentoring Moment:Conversations with your employees. Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Leadership Gold - Chapter One - Chris Cotton Weekly BlitzPlease go to: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M to check out our sponsor, AutoLeap! 1. Loneliness is NOT a leadership issue! 2. No one ever got to the top alone!3. Avoid positional thinking. 4. Understand that you are in the people business. 5. Application Exercises:6. Mentoring MomentCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Click Here for more information from our sponsor: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M1. Dirty Parking Lot, Weeds, No Striping, where do your employees, trash can??2. Lighting and signage3. Building needs painted, updated, benches, signage for after hours drop off etc…4. Windows washed, door clean, no handprints5. Information on the door correct (google my business information correct)6. Contact us…………7. Bathroom, public, clean, if you have a specific one for ladies do they have a place to hang up a purse and coat. 8. Stand up when people come into the business, for crying out loud look up and acknowledge the people9. Telephone on hold…………ask and then wait for an answer. 10. Waiting area nice and neat, wifi code correct and noticeable11. No nasty signs: short staffed signs…stop, 12. Smile be nice………..13. A shop environment that your daughter/wife/mother would go into and feel comfortableCoach Chris CottonEmail Chris: [email protected] Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008

Click the link to visit AutoLeaps site: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MHere are the bullet points of what we are going to talk about this morning:The importance of having a strong organizational culture.The shop owners' role in fostering a high-performance culture.Definitions of organizational culture.Factors that shape an organization's culture.Considerations in creating and managing organizational culture.Practices to ensure the continuity and success of an organization's culture.Communications, metrics, for your repair shop'sCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected] success

10 Steps to Auto Repair Shop Business EvaluationPlease click our sponsor link from AutoLeap to learn more information about their great shop management system: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M1. Reputation of Shop–Google My Business, Interview Vendors that they use, Website……..Mystery Shop2. What role is the owner currently performing in the business? What about a spouse in the business?3. Website, Social Media, advertising4. What do the business financials look like?5. What type of POS do they use? Do they have one? 6. Are they using current technology? DVI’s, Cloud-based POS, 7. What does their equipment look like? Do they have an updated list? Items that are supposed to be inspected–have they been done and is it up to date? Do they have an accurate inventory?8. Processes and Procedures…..9. What does their cash flow look like?10. What is the quality of their current employees?11. Accounts Receivable vs. Accounts PayableCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Catching up with Shop Marketing Pros - Kim and Brian WalkerSponsored by: Click here to check out AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Please check out AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M1. Get your finances in order! Make them readable and learn what the business’s numbers are telling you. 2. Separate your business money from your personal money. 3. Income statement/ p or l—generate one! 4. Stop making paper invoices! Get a cloud based POS system.5. Set Goals6. Hold employees accountable! 7. Align your car count with business needs. 8. DVI’s are a must! 9. Pay Plans10. Align for Profits! Make sure the business can generate what it needs in order to be successful! Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

AutoLeap Link: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2M1. 8,000 miles driven so far this year! 2. Shop Visits in: Tucson, Plano, Albuquerque3. Big Bend National Park4. Service Center Scholars Meeting in Tucson5. WorldPac STX 2022 in Orlando6. ServiceUP Repair Cloud7. Weekly Blitz Podcast8. #grindpositivityCoach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Time Blocking - Gain Control of Your Calendar - Chris CottonAutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MEvery day, we juggle competing demands on our time and, as a result, experience more chaos than clarity.Luckily, there’s a solution: time blocking. This is a terminology change for me, I’ve always called it making appointments with myself but time blocking is the correct verbiage, With time blocking, you can gain control of your calendar in order to focus on what truly matters to you and the business. Time blocking can help you align your attention with your intentions, so you always prioritize the right work at the right time. What is time blocking?Time blocking is a time management strategy where you schedule out every part—and I mean every part—of your day. With time blocking, you’re effectively breaking the work week into bite-sized time slots where you check your email, work on projects, take a break, or even exercise.Like most time management strategies, time blocking is a way for you to reclaim your day and get a better sense of where your time is actually going. By scheduling blocks of work, you can not only ensure you’re completing your important tasks, but also make sure you’re setting aside time for rest and self-care.How time blocking works: To create a time block, group like tasks and schedule a block of time to work on those tasks. There are two main fundamentals of time blocking:Visually scheduling time blocks on your calendar, so your work can’t be interrupted or scheduled over.Grouping like tasks into one concentrated block of time.Coach Chris CottonAutoFix-Auto Shop CoachingVisit Auto Shop Coaching website HERE.940-400-1008Email Chris: [email protected]

Link for AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MShow Notes: I'm sure you've read articles about the importance of "culture" to shape the behaviors of your employees. One of my favorite descriptions of company culture is that it is "the invisible hand that shapes team behavior when there is no defined process or system to tell them what to do."But understanding the concept of culture doesn't give you a nuts and bolts path to intentionally build it. Here are seven leadership habits that I've emphasized with my business coaching clients over the past decade.1. Be on time, all the time.2. Meet your own deadlines (and take responsibility for when you can't).3. Clarify all action items and deliverables in writing at the end of every meeting.4. Clearly state what you can't commit to so that you don't lower the accountability bar in your company by missing a "phantom deliverable."5. "Close" the accountability loop.6. Ask, don't immediately solve.--Coaching Opportunity!7. Celebrate progressTo listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris:AutoFix-Auto Shop Coachingwww.autoshopcoaching.comwww.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0aeEmail Chris: [email protected]

Click here to go to AutoLeap: https://bit.ly/3n5qW2MWhat is Backbone?Marshall defines backbone as "firm and resolute character". In action, she says, it might look and feel like courage. The word "integrity" also describes someone with a strong backbone. My belief is that everyone can grow a backbone and that business is a perfect place for you to learn how.The Three Components of Backbone:According to Marshall there are three components of backbone: competence, the ability to take purposeful risks, and confidence. Each component interacts with the other.1. Competence. Be open to growing your ability in every aspect of your academic career, and not just knowledge of your field. Seek out help in improving your writing abilities, time management skills, and ability to deal with others, for example. Cultivate experiences that will help your competence grow. List all your talents and abilities, and be aware of how much you've accomplished in the past few years.2. The ability to take purposeful risks. As Marshall says, this is "the ability to engage in intelligent, purposeful ventures on behalf of your career." By taking on appropriate challenges, you will not only succeed some of the time, but you will get practice in learning how to cope with setbacks, criticism and disappointment.3. Confidence. This is a natural outgrowth of the first two components and will lead you to take on more challenges. Knowing that you can survive the negative consequences of the risks you have taken will actually increase your courage and self-esteem. Having more competence, of course, will make you more calmly confident in yourself and your abilities. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris:AutoFix-Auto Shop Coachingwww.autoshopcoaching.comwww.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0aeEmail Chris: [email protected]