Automotive Training: A Business Strategy [RR 925]

There is no getting around the importance of training and mentorship in the automotive service repair industry. A strong commitment to training provides many long-term benefits for business growth. A collaborative approach to learning is encouraged, creating in-house experts and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Brandon advocates for staying technologically updated and customer-focused to ensure business success. The episode underscores training's vital role in enhancing customer service and business success.

Brandon Steckler, instructor for CarQuest Institute and WorldPAC Training Institute, Technical Editor for MotorAge Magazine. Brandon’s previous episodes HERE.

Show Notes

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The Importance of Mentorship (00:01:45) Brandon's mentor, Jim Morton, and the impact of mentorship on his career.
Passing on Knowledge (00:02:53) Brandon's commitment to guiding and mentoring younger technicians.
Learning from Mistakes (00:03:27) The value of sharing personal mistakes and lessons in training sessions.
Influence and Impact (00:04:56) The significance of influencing and changing lives as a trainer in the automotive industry.
Motivation for Technicians (00:05:24) The evolving motivations for technicians and the importance of ongoing education.
The Role of Training (00:06:15) The critical role of ongoing education and networking for technicians.
Engaging Training (00:07:03) Brandon's approach to engaging and building trust with trainees.
Staying Current (00:11:07) The importance of continuous learning and the 85% rule
Teaching in Europe (00:16:30) Brandon's experience teaching in the UK and Ireland, and plans for future classes.
Importance of Mentorship (00:18:27) Brandon discusses the value of sharing mistakes and not being a hero in teaching, emphasizing mentorship.
Encouraging Questions (00:20:11) The positive impact of asking questions and fostering a network of knowledge in training sessions.
Creating Technical Content (00:22:51) Brandon's process for creating technical videos and the importance of creating useful content for technicians.
Value of Training (00:26:48) Brandon's approach to building confidence in technicians through training and the impact of a positive learning environment.
Understanding Shop Ownership (00:29:08) Brandon's realization of the responsibilities and challenges of shop ownership and the importance of a well-rounded skill set.
Managing Training Responsibilities (00:29:57) Discussion on the responsibility of shop owners to invest in structured training programs and the benefits of investing in employees.
Challenges of Time and Money (00:31:40) The difficulty of allocating time and money for training, and the importance of seeing the return on investment in training.
The Importance of Solutions (00:33:28) Emphasizing the need to focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems, and the positive outcomes that result from this mindset.