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 challenges Service Advisors to make a pivotal choice: remain average or strive for elite status in their careers. He breaks down the five levels of performance for service advisors and emphasizes that reaching elite status starts with mindset and relentless self-improvement. Michael also shares actionable tips for leveling up—like adopting personal accountability, seeking continuous education, and putting in extra effort when no one’s watching.

00:00 "Choosing Your Service Advisor Level"

03:55 Path to Personal Growth Success

07:45 Maximizing Time for Success

12:56 Path to Elite Service Advisor

13:48 "Success Through Hard Work and Growth"

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 concept of the "Honest Agreement," inspired by Marcus Sheridan’s energetic approach to building trust with customers. Michael explains that transparency—from clear communication about costs, timelines, and risks to proactively updating clients about challenges—sets the foundation for lasting relationships in the automotive service industry. He also shares actionable tips for implementing these trust-building practices in your shop, stressing that honesty isn’t a weakness but a critical strength for long-term client loyalty.

00:00 "The Honest Agreement: Building Trust"

03:39 Building Trust Through Honest Agreements

08:09 Transparent Communication: Building Trust

11:14 Honesty as a Strength

13:43 Strengthening Client 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!

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 why the sale isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning for service advisors. Michael shares actionable tips on turning satisfied customers into loyal advocates, like making personal follow-up calls instead of relying solely on automated surveys. He emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships, sharing positive feedback with technicians, and always looking for ways to improve the customer experience. 

Timestamps:
00:00 Overcoming Sales Obstacles

04:52 Beyond Transactions: Show You Care

07:25 Customer Experience and Feedback Matters

11:54 "Service Advisor Confidence Boost"

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 challenges Service Advisors to step up their game with a two-week “Service Advisor Challenge,” starting August 4th. Michael emphasizes going beyond the basics by saying “yes” to every qualifying service call and taking in vehicles on the same day, pushing advisors to step out of their comfort zones. He also shares practical strategies on maximizing shop efficiency, clear team communication, and tracking results, comparing the process to a high-stakes game of Tetris.

00:00 "Returning to Service Advisor Basics"

05:35 "Say 'Yes' Challenge Strategy"

06:53 Prioritize Team Communication Strategies

11:23 Focused Metrics and Results Alignment

15:15 "Team Success and Strategic Growth"

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 the power of pre-appointment estimates as a service advisor. He explains how delivering estimates before a client’s visit increases commitment, transparency, and confidence, leading to higher show rates and greater trust. Michael also highlights how these proactive estimates streamline shop efficiency, allowing parts to be ordered ahead of time and reducing wasted resources.

00:00 Optimizing Client Communication Preferences

04:32 "Pre-Appointment Authorization Importance"

09:30 "Written Commitments Reduce No-Shows"

12:29 Transparent AC Service Estimate Process

14:08 Boost Business Efficiency and Reduce No-Shows

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 his top ten action items, highlighting the importance of greeting customers with confidence, mastering the art of active listening, and providing clear and transparent estimates. Whether you’re new to the advisor desk or looking to up your game, Michael’s practical tips and firsthand stories provide valuable takeaways for anyone in the automotive service industry. 

00:00 Confident Communication is Key

05:39 Effective Service Call Protocol

09:39 Account for Bolt Extraction Costs

13:02 Proactive Customer Service Strategy

14:22 Streamlined Vehicle Pickup Process

18:13 Handling Emergency Car Requests

21:50 Proactive ADAS Alignment Preparations

26:24 Customer Feedback Timing Tips

28:52 Embrace and Learn from Feedback

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 concept of G.R.O.W.—Getting Rid of Old Ways—in the world of service advising. Michael shares how breaking free from outdated habits, such as handwritten notes and fragmented communication, can boost shop efficiency and customer satisfaction. He emphasizes the importance of embracing new technology like digital vehicle inspections, holding daily shop huddles, and proactively communicating with clients.

00:00 Digital Vehicle Inspections Adoption Fears

04:00 Inefficiency of Outdated Methods

09:14 Proactive Client Updates Essential

11:23 Proactive Client Communication

13:57 Boost Efficiency with Client Engagement

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 how to turn transactional phone calls into valuable opportunities for customer connection. Michael emphasizes the importance of showing empathy when prospects call with concerns, like a broken AC during a heat wave. He also emphasizes the importance of asking qualifying questions to fully understand the customer's issue, rather than immediately providing price quotes. Finally, Michael emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations about the diagnostic process, ensuring customers understand what they're getting for their money, and building trust from the very first call.

00:00 Phone Call: AC Recharge Inquiry

03:54 "Empathy in Customer Service Calls"

07:24 Effective Communication in Vehicle Troubleshooting

09:57 Manage Customer Expectations on HVAC Issues

13:22 Building Customer Confidence in Service

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 discusses how service advisors can effectively handle comebacks in the automotive repair industry. Michael emphasizes the importance of taking ownership and being transparent with customers when mistakes happen, reminding listeners that honesty helps build trust and retention. He also shares practical strategies, such as implementing checklists and team accountability, plus fostering a positive shop culture through daily "gratefuls" in morning meetings. 

00:00 Rebuilding Trust After Mistakes

05:00 Transparency & Accountability in Auto Work

09:09 "Adapting to Unscripted Comebacks"

10:36 Car Window Calibration & Maintenance

13:50 "Mindset Shift Strategy"

15:43 "Make It Right for Clients"

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 takes listeners through the evolution of the service advisor role in the automotive industry. Michael highlights the shift from handwritten repair orders on carbon pads to the adoption of digital tools, emphasizing how today’s advisors are not just ticket writers but relationship builders, educators, and strategists. He also discusses the growing impact of AI and digital vehicle inspections, encouraging advisors to embrace new technologies and attend industry events, such as the upcoming ASTA Expo, to stay connected, informed, and prepared for the future.

Register for the ASTA Expo HERE

00:00 The Evolution of Service Advisors

06:32 AI Tools Enhancing Service Advisor Roles

09:31 Building Client Trust Through Transparency

12:14 "Eleanor Performance's Life-Changing Expo"

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!