Management: Technicians Represent the Fabric of Automotive Repair Excellence

Management: Technicians Represent the Fabric of Automotive Repair Excellence

Finding and keeping good technicians tops the "main concerns" list of most automotive service providers today. Not only are technicians responsible for servicing and repairing a growing import car population, but they play a crucial role in a shop's overall customer service experience, so they are your most valued resources.

By Mary DellaValle
Editor
ImportCar Magazine

Finding and keeping good technicians tops the “main concerns” list of most automotive service providers today. Not only are technicians responsible for servicing and repairing a growing import car population, but they play a crucial role in a shop’s overall customer service experience, so they are your most valued resources.

Think about your technicians’ credentials. Their expertise allows them to deliver quality repairs that are done right the first time. Their commitment to training elevates their skills and helps build your shop’s image. Their customer service skills and professional repair ethics solidify your customers’ trust and confidence in your shop.

Keeping good, skilled technicians requires energy, effort and dedication. Consider the following factors in your retention efforts:

Ownership. Make your technicians feel like they’re an integral part of your business. Let them know you value their opinion and inspire them to offer suggestions and make recommendations. Encourage them to share best practices with one another as a means to increase their efficiency and expertise. Tell them that their contributions are a vital part of your shop’s success.

Investment. Realize that your technicians represent a significant investment in time and money, considering the costs associated with finding good people and training them. As with any asset, you want a significant return on investment. The longer an employee stays with your shop, the higher your return.

Training. Support and encourage your technicians’ training efforts. Help them make a commitment to regular training to hone their skills, and increase their ability to handle more repairs with greater precision and efficiency. Take steps to applaud their knowledge and expertise by promoting their certifications and posting their certificates in your shop’s customer waiting area.

Incentives. Consider boosting the number of benefits you offer. In a recent survey of ImportCar readers, we asked employers which benefits they offered from a list of nine common benefits. Of the respondents, 87% offer work clothes; 83%, paid vacation; 77%, allow working on own cars after closing; 71%, paid training; 71%, hospitalization/health coverage; 45%, paid sick time; 31%, bonus plan; 21%, dental coverage; 21%, pension plan; 18%, life insurance; 16%, tool allowance; and 8%, profit sharing.

Your technicians are the fabric of your shop’s success. Realize that holding on to them represents the cornerstone of its future.

You May Also Like

UniClutch Launches Clutch System in the United States

From Australian manufacturer Clutch Industries, UniClutch is a clutch system that delivers uncompromised performance.

UniClutch and UniClutch Sport will be the first iterations of this system to launch in the U.S. UniClutch's dual core technology significantly boosts torque capacity without compromising drivability. Its one-of-a-kind, patented and adaptable design fits a multitude of vehicles, simplifies inventory management, expedites clutch replacement time, and lessens common installation problems. Compared to UniClutch, UniClutch Sport offers a further 15% more torque capacity and a sport-tuned pedal feel for more serious enthusiasts. These features create a clutch system with mass appeal for consumers and aftermarket businesses alike, as the industry grapples with a continuously challenging supply chain and the need to find labor efficiencies.

Automotive Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2024 Inductees

Six honorees whose efforts helped shape the automotive and mobility marketplace will be recognized.

Castrol Turns 125, Debuts New Market Strategy

As part of the new strategy, Castrol will explore opportunities in battery thermal management, digital and service solutions and data center immersion cooling.

Advance Auto Parts Announces ‘National Battery Day’ Promo

DieHard battery giveaways and complimentary battery testing will be part of nationwide festivities held on Feb. 18.

FCS Introduces 18 New Numbers in February

The new release includes 4 shock absorbers and 14 suspension struts.

Other Posts

Tenneco Introduces Add-On Valve Technology 

The company says the RideRefine SDD valve brings new levels of versatility, tunability and comfort to passive damper performance.

AP Emissions Releases New Part Numbers for February

AP Emissions Technologies has released 12 new SKUs that cover six million VIO in the month of February.

Lumileds Debuts New Philips Automotive Lighting Website

The site features an entirely new design that brings together the full breadth of the Philips portfolio of automotive lighting and accessories in North America.

Standard Motor Products Expands Emission Control Program

SMP’s program features more than 3,500 parts, including EVAP, EGR and positive crankcase ventilation products.