The Personal Touch in a Digital World: Why Outbound Calls Still Matter [THA 447]
This episode explores how today’s top automotive shops are transforming their business by taking a proactive approach—reaching out to customers instead of waiting for the phone to ring.
You’ll hear strategies to overcome common service advisor objections, such as “cold calling feels pushy” or “I don’t have time,” supported by Dan Taylor’s compelling data showing that just 10 calls can generate 2 appointments. We’ll break down the different types of high-impact calls, thank you calls, deferred work reminders, and even simple “we miss you” check-ins that strengthen relationships and keep customers engaged. Plus, learn why tailoring outreach—whether by call or text—based on each customer’s preference ensures communication feels genuine, not generic.
This conversation reveals why outbound calls aren’t just a task, but a growth opportunity. In an increasingly digital world, it’s the personal touch that builds trust, sets your shop apart, and keeps customers coming back. Don’t wait for loyalty, create it.
remarkableresults.biz/a447
Uber, Loaners, and Shuttle Solutions for Automotive Clients [THA 446]
Key Takeaways:
Auto Repair Is a People Business: Learn why shifting your focus to relationship-building and empathy is crucial for service advisors, who are often “therapists” to anxious customers.
Discover why providing customer transportation rather than leaving them to figure it out is quickly becoming a game changing differentiator in the automotive industry.
We break down three powerful options:
Loaner Cars & Rental Programs: Remove the “transportation barrier” for customers and make it easier for them to approve bigger jobs. Learn about the ROI, and how forming a separate rental company can slash insurance costs.
Uber Business: Keep customers moving and increase your average work order by allowing them to approve more work without the wait. Fully web-based and trackable for simple management.
Shuttle Services: Turn travel time into relationship building time. Using the “FORD” method (Family, Occupation, Recreation, Dreams), your staff can connect on a personal level and create customers for life.
Tune in to hear how each option impacts ROI, boosts efficiency, satisfies evolving customer expectations, and helps you overcome objections, ultimately locking in long-term client loyalty.
remarkableresults.biz/a446
People 101: Why Soft Skills Drive Hard Results [THA 445]
Key Takeaways:
Auto Repair Is a People Business: Learn why shifting your focus to relationship-building and empathy is crucial for service advisors, who are often “therapists” to anxious customers.
Emotions Drive Decisions: Customers make big emotional and financial decisions, yet we often treat interactions as fast, transactional processes. Discover how to connect with customer pain points, concerns, and fears to build trust and make them feel like a priority, even when smoke is coming out of their engine.
Soft Skills = Profitability: Implementing soft skills like active listening and thoughtful questioning leads directly to climbing average repair orders, more five-star reviews, and significantly higher customer retention.
Price Becomes Irrelevant: When customers trust you, they don’t shop on price, they shop on experience.
Build “Key Dropper” Loyalty: Learn the ultimate goal: turning customers into “key droppers,” individuals who know, like, and trust your shop so completely that they simply drop their keys, confident you’ll handle everything.
Leadership Must Lead the Way: This isn’t just for your counter team. Owners must be engaged, invested, and accountable in soft skills training. Discover why your commitment to professionalism is key to the industry’s future, separating thriving businesses from those that won’t survive the next decade.
remarkableresults.biz/a445
Mastering Active Delivery: The Key to Lasting Customer Relationships [THA 440]
Explore the concept of “active delivery” in automotive customer service, an intentional and consistent approach to communication that spans the entire customer journey, from the initial contact to the final vehicle handoff. The discussion highlights how thoughtful interactions can create a powerful and lasting impression, especially in the closing moments.
Discover how clear communication, genuine rapport-building, and proactive expectation setting help cultivate trust and long-term loyalty. The episode also offers actionable strategies, including adapting communication styles, using supporting materials like brochures, and ensuring every team member aligns with a unified service approach.
More than just completing a transaction, active delivery is positioned as a key driver of customer satisfaction, repeat business, and word-of-mouth referrals, making it essential for shops focused on sustainable success.
remarkableresults.biz/a440
Artificial Intelligence Marketing: Watering Holes, Personas, and Automotive Branding [RR 1029]
This episode covers the critical role and impact of AI on marketing, the importance of persona marketing, and effective branding strategies. Learn about “watering holes,” referring to identifying where potential customers spend their time online and offline, and how to effectively use persona marketing to target specific demographics. Dan stresses the importance of branding and community involvement, asserting that successful shops prioritize building brand recognition and relationships within their local areas. He also warns about trusting AI implicitly, referencing instances of AI being inaccurate.
remarkableresults.biz/e1029
Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe? A Shop Owner’s Guide [THA 417]
Discover how to harness AI tools effectively in business with two experts from Optimize Digital Marketing. They share practical tips on using AI to streamline operations, generate creative marketing ideas, optimize SEO, and improve customer interactions—all while maintaining a personal touch. Learn how to balance AI’s efficiency with human creativity and judgment, avoid pitfalls like bias and plagiarism, and make AI work for you without losing authenticity.
remarkableresults.biz/a417
Unstoppable Framework for Auto Shop Owners Part 4: Stay Customer Focused and Flexible [RR 1020]
Join Maryann Croce in the fourth episode of the Unstoppable Framework for Auto Shop Owners series. Discover essential strategies for building trust, loyalty, and a thriving business by staying customer-focused and adaptable. Learn about gathering and acting on customer feedback, streamlining customer experiences, offering added services, building referral networks, and staying current with industry trends and training.
remarkableresults.biz/e1020
Improve Call Handling Skills: The Power of AI and Continuous Learning [RR 1015]
Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network David Boyd discusses the critical importance of call handling and customer communication, offering valuable insights on setting clear expectations and fostering a supportive training environment. Learn how modern technology can elevate customer service interactions, boost conversion rates, and drive sales growth. Plus, gain practical…
A Gift, Not A Punishment: Service Advisor Coaching [THA 395]
This episode explores how effective coaching can pay for itself by improving client interactions and boosting profitability. By listening to calls and identifying areas of opportunity, coaches help advisors address customer needs more accurately. Discover why one-on-one coaching is a valuable investment for shop owners aiming to enhance their business performance and customer experience.
remarkableresults.biz/a395
From Websites to Texts: How to Meet Modern Consumer Expectations [RR 982]
Aubrey Amborn, Director of Sales for Net Driven, discusses the evolving marketing landscape in the automotive industry. She emphasizes the necessity of a robust online presence, effective SEO, and diverse communication methods to meet changing consumer preferences. Aubrey highlights the importance of adapting to digital trends, noting that 87% of consumers prefer text communication. The discussion also covers the impact of online reviews and the need for businesses to engage with customers through various channels to remain competitive.
remarkableresults.biz/e982
Make Every Detail Count: What Message Are You Sending to Customers? [RR 932]
Recorded Live at the 2024 MACS (Mobile Air Climate Systems) Training Event & Trade Show, shop owner Bill Snow discusses marketing strategies, the use of social media platforms, and the importance of authenticity in video marketing. Bill shares insights on audience preferences for lighthearted content and emphasizes professionalism and the value of every customer interaction in reflecting the business’s dedication to service.
remarkableresults.biz/e932
Service Advisor Role Play #7 [THA 366]
Through role-playing exercises, our panel demonstrates different approaches to selling and communicating with customers. They emphasize the importance of understanding customer needs, building rapport, and being direct when necessary. The discussion covers the significance of tone, trust-building, technical knowledge, and authenticity in customer interactions. The episode concludes with a focus on continuous learning and the value of a supportive work environment.
remarkableresults.biz/a366
Why CRM is Vital to Automotive Shop Success Part 2 [THA 365]
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are more than just tools; they are the lifeline of customer engagement and business growth.
Explore strategies for identifying and re-engaging lost customers, adapting CRM practices to changing customer behaviors, and personalizing communication.
remarkableresults.biz/a365
The Art of Client Appreciation [RR 915]
Dane and Cathy Bailey discuss their transition from a franchise to independent operators, the importance of trust and reputation, and their unique approach to customer relations. The Baileys emphasize the significance of creating a welcoming environment, particularly for female clients, and the role of personalized gestures like thank-you baskets and branded gifts in building lasting relationships. They also explore the parallels between the automotive and real estate industries, highlighting the importance of professionalism and quality service.
remarkableresults.biz/e915
Why CRM is Vital to Automotive Shop Success [THA 359]
Our panel discusses the importance of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) in the success of auto repair shops. They highlight CRM’s role in client retention, communication, and building trusted relationships. The discussion also covers the significance of integrating CRM with shop management systems and the potential for automation and reminders based on customer data. The panelists stress the importance of the first 100 days in the customer journey, the need for consistent touchpoints, and personalized communication.
remarkableresults.biz/a359
Transparency is the New Trust: Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Client [RR 903]
“AutoTechIQ helps car and truck owners identify problems their vehicles are having. We provide proven auto repair work that has solved similar issues thousands of vehicle owners have faced. We also recommend auto repair shops in your area based on trust, customer education, and quality of work. These shops inspect your car using a courtesy Digital Vehicle Health Inspection and create a state of health report with symptom information and necessary fixes.”
Frank Scandura and Krista Erickson discuss how AutoTechIQ aims to bridge the gap between shops and customers by creating better relationships through technology and transparency. The goal is to empower customers with knowledge and build trust.
remarkableresults.biz/e903
App-solutely Essential: Why Auto Repair Shops Need to Embrace Apps [RR 863]
Jeff Mont, owner of JJ’s Auto Service Center and Jeremy Glassco, founder of App Fueled, discuss the benefits of using apps in the automotive industry. Apps can be a valuable tool to engage with customers and increase customer loyalty. By offering valuable benefits and discounts, shops can make it worth their customers’ while to give their time and attention to their business. JJ shares his experience using App Fueled for his shop’s app, which includes a 10% discount on all purchases and a 5% rebate up to $50. He notes that the app has helped increase his shop’s average repair order by 15-16%.
remarkableresults.biz/e863
Giving Back to the Community: The Social Impact Initiatives of Adam and Son Auto Repair [RR 850]
Are you tired of the same old auto repair experience with poor customer service and no personal touch? Look no further than Adam and Son Auto Repair in Colorado Springs. Owner Dan Adam and VP of Social Impact and Strategy Stacy Burns, share their insights on creating a unique customer experience and positively impacting their community.
Dan Adam founded Adam and Son Auto Repair with a mission to improve the way auto repair businesses are run and provide exceptional customer service. He achieved this by defining 28 fundamentals that create behaviors for team members and ingrained them in the company culture through weekly messages and daily huddles. But the customer experience at Adam and Son doesn’t stop there. They have implemented social impact initiatives that provide free car repairs to single mothers, domestic violence victims, and disabled veterans through their Stranded Motorist Fund. This program aims to provide safe and reliable transportation to those in need and has gained positive feedback from the community. Adam and Son have gained high-quality customers who support their business by providing excellent customer service and making a positive social impact.
remarkableresults.biz/e850
Google Reviews: New Value From the Words Used [RR 793]
We are with Jimmy Lea from Kukui at ASTE 2022 with another important Google Update. We are always keeping you in the know as it relates to mother Google. Google is now giving more credibility and weight to customer reviews. It goes beyond their ranked star review and dives into what they wrote, word for word, literally. What does that mean for your shop?
remarkableresults.biz/e793
Differentiate with Video [THA 299]
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but what about video? Video content has taken our world by storm, and if you’re not doing videos for your shop, you are behind. Keep listening to find out how to differentiate yourself from other shops using authentic stories from your customers and employees.
remarkableresults.biz/a299
Customer Perceptions Part 3 – Bob Cooper and Chris Monroe [RR 781]
We are wrapping up our 3 part series with Bob Cooper and the Q&A discussion with a customer panel at the 2022 Elite Invitational. Chris Monroe joins us as we discuss websites, google ads and cause marketing. Don’t forget to download your complimentary Customer Care Guide and an Owners Job Description Guide by going to eliteworldwide.com/ARN or find the link in the show notes.
remarkableresults.biz/e781
Customer Perceptions: Part 2 – Bob Cooper and Darrin Barney [RR 777]
We are on Part 2 of our 3 Part series about customer perspectives with Bob Cooper. In this episode, Bob asks a panel of consumers at the 2022 Elite Invitational in San Diego about pricing competitiveness and how to recover when something goes wrong with a customer experience.
remarkableresults.biz/e777
Customer Amenities [THA 291]
Customer amenities aren’t just a snack bar and some coffee k-cups. It takes more to deepen a relationship. My panel of shop owners goes beyond the free wifi and beverages to really wow their customers and make that lasting impression. Amenities are your ultimate marketing tool for your business. Take Note!
remarkableresults.biz/a291
Is Your Bathroom Like the Ritz Carlton? [THA 281]
Did you know your customer’s bathroom is one of the most important reflections of your business to your customer? It reflects the commitment to a clean environment, it will affect your customer’s perception of your business and it demonstrates how well you’ll care for their personal vehicle. My panel discusses simple bathroom amenities that can have a huge impact and lasting impression on customers. Strive to have a customer rest room that is like the Ritz Carlton.
remarkableresults.biz/a281
Google Reviews – Jimmy Lea [RR 747]
It’s time to take a deep dive into Google Reviews. Why is it important to have a variety of star ratings instead of all 5 stars? Why do you need to respond to good and bad reviews? I’m with Jimmy Lea, Kukui Evangelist. Find out why your business must exist digitally in order to capture customers.
remarkableresults.biz/e747