It's almost 2015! Amidst the celebration this New Year's, take a minute to reflect back on 2014 and think about what resolutions to make this upcoming year, that includes you, auto mechanics! Here are the top ten things we at Mechanic Advisor think auto mechanics can make as resolutions in the upcoming year.
It should be noted that many of the resolutions on this list can also apply to customers...read on to see what I'm talking about.
1. Keep your cool over the phone.
People get mad at you. Often times, irrationally. But keeping your cool over the phone can not only save a potential customer, it can lead to you feeling more calm, and the rest of the shop feeling more confident.
2. Keep your shop relatively clean.
This does not mean your shop needs to be in perfect condition, but if you're a shop that often leaves tools or trash lying around, customers can take notice. Make an effort to clean that stuff up for 2015.
3. Only give an estimate when you’re confident.
It might be tempting to give an estimate right away, but providing an estimate too quickly can cause unnecessary headaches down the line. Even if someone is begging you for an estimate, don't give it to them until you're confident what the problem and rough cost are.
4. Don’t be shady.
The vast majority of mechanics are hardworking and honest, so this resolution is not for everyone. But hey, the 5% of mechanics who are shady can give the entire industry a bad reputation. Cut it out! Make a resolution. You can make money doing honest work. 95% of your peers do it!
5. Don’t take on more work than you can handle.
It can be tough turning down a customer, but sometimes taking on that one extra car during the busy season can cause major headaches for you and your customers. Make a resolution to turn it down, and focus on delivering great work to the jobs you already have.
6. Stay calm and carry on.
Customers can get mad. Customers can get in your way. Customers can get downright stupid. Regardless of what people might say to you, make a resolution to block it out as much as possible. This might also help prevent bad reviews from cropping up online.
7. Be honest with your timing.
Many of you already do this, but f you're slammed with work and it looks like you're not going to get to a car, make the resolution to call the customer and let them know it will take a little longer. Being upfront is much better than dealing with an angry customer later.
8. Keep the car clean.
For the mechanics, keep it the way it was when you got it. For customers, bring it in like you're the one who's going to have to work on it. Plain and simple.
9. Look for other ways to advertise.
Almost every mechanic goes through a slow season. This year, try something different. Maybe try advertising online, or even setting up a basic Facebook page for your shop. Any way to bring in more customers is a good way during the slow season.
10. Take a break once in a while.
Don't work yourself to the bone. In 2015, be aware of when you're getting tired, and take a quick break during the day. Even if you have to stay a few extra minutes at the end of the day, you'll feel a lot more energized throughout the day.
Did we forget any? Let us know what your resolutions are in the comments.
