AutoFix AdvisorCast

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty hosts his final Autofix AdvisorCast and shares heartfelt reflections on the evolution of customer expectations in the automotive industry. He emphasizes that today's customers want Amazon-like convenience, high-end service, and genuine warmth from their repair shops. Key takeaways include the importance of setting clear, realistic boundaries with clients, leveraging proactive and empathetic communication to build trust, and maintaining consistency through strong systems and daily habits.

If you'd like to be the next host of this podcast, contact Chris Cotton at [email protected]

Timestamps:
00:00 Passing the Torch: Autofix AdvisorCast

03:45 Managing Expectations Builds Trust

10:11 "Truthful Service with Tact"

13:57 Proactive Communication Prevents Client Loss

16:27 Customer Service Beyond Transaction

17:58 "Excellence Starts with Habits"

22:57 Passing the Autofix Advisor Baton

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, host Michael Doherty dives into the power of selfless teamwork in building an unstoppable shop culture. Michael shares personal experiences, emphasizing how serving one another leads to greater trust, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. He outlines actionable steps for fostering a winning mindset and promoting daily habits that elevate the entire team.

Timestamps:
00:00 Teamwork Makes Work Easier

05:37 Passion Fuels Success

07:07 Positive Mindset Drives Success

09:53 "Turning Negatives Into Positives"

14:21 "Prioritizing the Customer Always"

18:13 "Strive, Grow, Serve, Unite"

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty breaks down the concept of “client guided sales” and how it transforms the traditional sales approach for service advisors. Michael emphasizes the importance of using detailed diagnostic information and photos to build trust with clients, as well as the need for clear communication and patience throughout the estimating process. He also discusses how prioritizing the client’s main concerns, being transparent with recommendations, and making clients feel valued can set a shop apart in a competitive market.

Timestamps:
00:00 Review Info Before Estimating

04:04 "Importance of Client Communication"

07:53 "Review Estimates Before Sending"

10:52 Client-Guided Sales Approach

12:57 "Client-Guided Sales Strategies"

19:19 "Client-Guided Sales Approach"

20:24 "Client-Guided Sales & Rapport"

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty dives into the essentials of maintaining a healthy, positive mindset as a service advisor. He emphasizes the power of positive self-talk and how it sets the foundation for confidence and resilience, especially during challenging days. Michael also highlights the importance of self-care—like staying hydrated, taking breaks, and giving yourself grace on tough days—to avoid burnout and consistently deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Timestamps: 
00:00 Inner Voice Shapes Positive Mindset

05:28 "Daily Self-Care for Clarity"

07:13 Effort Matters, Not Perfection

13:44 Cultivating Positivity in Communication

15:46 Clear Communication with Customers

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty recaps his experience at the ASTA Automotive Service Tire Alliance Expo in Raleigh and dives into why ongoing learning is crucial for service advisors. He emphasizes that teachability—not just technical expertise—sets advisors apart in today’s rapidly evolving automotive industry. Michael also shares practical tips for improving communication between service advisors and technicians, as well as advice on learning from customer interactions to continually grow in the role

00:00 "Adapting to Industry Changes"

03:22 Teachable Advisors Triumph

08:40 Enhancing Technician-Advisor Communication

10:35 Effective Technician Communication Strategies

15:11 Commit to Continuous Improvement

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty celebrates 50 episodes of the Autofix Advisor Cast and shares powerful advice for service advisors looking to grow in the industry. Michael stresses why direction is more important than speed, encouraging advisors to focus on heading the right way rather than rushing through tasks. He also highlights the importance of controlling what you can—like your attitude, time management, and communication—to create a positive shop environment. Finally, Michael reminds listeners that failure isn’t the end, but fuel for growth, and emphasizes how building relationships with both customers and coworkers makes all the difference in service advising.

Timestamps:
00:00 Attitude and Mindset Define Success

03:49 "Control Feedback and Communication"

08:23 Promoting Positive Workplace Communication

12:01 "Address Issues, Boost Business"

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty talks about phone skills for service advisors. He emphasizes the importance of treating every incoming call as a quality lead, urging advisors to dig deeper and ask better questions rather than making quick judgments about customers. Michael also highlights that building trust and long-term relationships starts with that very first phone call, and reminds advisors that objections from customers are often just hidden opportunities to build value and confidence.

Timestamps:
00:00 Defining Quality Leads for Advisors

03:45 Client Calls: An Advisor's Opportunity

08:23 Probing Questions Boost Customer Trust

10:36 "Focus on Relationships, Not Sales"

15:12 "Building Relationships for Business Growth"

16:59 "See You at SEMA?"

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty dives into the challenges service advisors face when it comes to avoiding uncomfortable tasks. Michael emphasizes that true growth happens when you tackle the work you tend to put off, like making follow-up calls or asking for reviews. He also highlights the importance of preparation and discipline, explaining how showing up early and consistently putting in effort builds trust with both your team and your customers.

00:00 "Confront Avoidance, Achieve Success"

03:33 Work Ethic in Service Advisory

08:45 Responding to Customer Reviews

11:23 Morning Prep Prevents Chaos

15:47 "Discipline Builds Trust and Confidence"

19:15 Prioritize Tasks and Build Confidence

20:49 "All-Star Ensemble"

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty dives into the mindset shift required for service advisors to truly make a difference beyond just processing repair orders. Michael emphasizes the importance of building genuine client relationships, educating rather than pressuring customers, and the need for advisors to see their daily work as a craft rather than a grind.

00:00 "Beyond Service Advisor: Difference Maker"

05:24 Purpose Beyond Paychecks

09:23 "Client Education Over Pressure"

11:56 Attitude Shapes Your Success

14:14 Navigating Challenges in Automotive Marketing

19:39 "Customer Feelings Drive Success"

20:54 Seasonal Transition and Appreciation Message

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. 

In this episode, Michael Doherty shares practical advice for service advisors on how to approach new customer calls as if they’re already doing business together. Michael highlights the importance of making every interaction about building relationships and trust, starting with a warm, confident greeting. He also emphasizes using language that sets your shop apart—like saying you “specialize” in certain services—to help prospects feel valued and understood. 

00:00 Client-Centric Automotive Engagement

03:09 Building Trust Through Personal Connection

06:12 Customer Experience in Auto Repairs

11:13 "Building Customer Relationships"

Stay connected with us on social media:

• Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
• YouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Channel
• Twitter: @AutoFixCoaching

Don't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE!

If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to connecting with you!