AutoFix AdvisorCast

AutoFix AdvisorCast

By Michael DohertyBusinessLeisureAutomotive
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AutoFix AdvisorCast episodes

  • Service Advisors! It's Time To Prep for Busy Season At Your Shop!

    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 helps you prepare for the busy spring season! Michael says to ensure all shop equipment, such as lifts and alignment racks, are serviced and certified to avoid downtime. He also shares insights on creating a team-oriented environment where service advisors and technicians go above and beyond for clients by checking for recalls and offering personalized service.

    00:00 Essential Shop Maintenance Practices

    04:01 Proactive Mindset: Essential Everywhere

    06:46 Embrace Transparent Vehicle Inspections

    10:31 Check Vehicle Recall Status

    14:27 "Helping Clients is Everyone's Job"

    17:09 "Prioritizing Client Care"


    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!

    19 min
  • Becoming a Skittle-Pooping Unicorn. AKA - A Great Advisor

    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 how to become a standout service advisor. Or, like one technician on Reddit said, a "skittle pooping unicorn." Michael says early preparation for the day is critical and that an advisor should arrive at least half an hour early to set goals. Additionally, he highlights the necessity of team unity, encouraging service advisors to share positive customer feedback with technicians and suggesting small rewards to foster motivation and cohesion in the shop.

    00:00 "Becoming the Unicorn Advisor"

    05:41 "Reward through Team Effort"

    07:52 Morning Positivity and Rewards Initiative

    10:50 Boosting Service Advisor Efficiency

    13:49 "Appreciation and Effort Acknowledgment"


    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!

    16 min
  • Phone Conversation Tips For Service Advisors. Do You Actively Listen?

    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 today's episode, Michael Doherty talks about active listening for service advisors. He points out the common issue of disengagement during phone conversations and emphasizes the significance of staying attentive and reiterating client concerns to ensure clear communication. Michael also highlights the need for adaptability in handling unexpected changes in shop schedules and effectively managing client expectations. 

    00:00 Active Listening Challenges in Client Calls

    03:51 Active Listening in Service Calls

    08:41 Proactive Client Communication

    12:08 "Prioritize Client-Centric Auto Service"

    13:17 Active Listening and Professional Communication


    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!

    15 min
  • My Thoughts From Vision 2025 in Kansas City

    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 takeaways from Vision Hi-Tech Training and Expo. He tells the story of his travel to the event, highlighting the professionalism of the Southwest team despite the long and exhausting day. Michael also talks about co-teaching a service advisor class with Chris Cotton, describing it as an exhilarating experience that sparked his passion for teaching. 

    00:00 "Exhausting Travel with Lost Bag"

    05:59 Customers Feel Like Numbers: 61%

    07:05 "Service Advisor Best Practices"

    11:25 Vision Expo Highlights & Technician Solutions

    15:20 "Exceed Expectations, Personalize 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!

    17 min
  • Advisors Listen Up! Helpful Tips For Building Estimates At Your Repair Shop

    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 today's episode, Michael Doherty covers what you need to know about providing estimates to new customers over the phone. Michael shares personal experiences, illustrating the importance of having detailed information, like the vehicle's VIN, before giving accurate quotes. Additionally, he introduces the innovative use of Loom Video as a tool for service advisors to create personalized, engaging content that enhances customer relationships and saves time.

    Learn more about Loom here: https://www.loom.com/

    00:00 Phone Estimate Flexibility

    03:03 Phone Estimates Require Vehicle Details

    06:07 BMW Coolant Leak Preparation

    11:04 "Emotional Engagement in Car Service"

    15:23 "In-Shop Car Estimates Only"

    16:03 "Boost Your Auto Shop Success"


    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!

    17 min
  • How To Manage Extended Warranty Expectations

    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. 


    Today, Michael Doherty talks about the ever-so-dreaded topic of third-party warranty companies. If you're an advisor, you've had many headaches from dealing with them. So, what's the secret? Is there one? Michael says establishing clear policies for dealing with these warranty companies can help. Today he shares advice on how to do that. 

    00:00 "Proactive Service Advisor Strategies"

    03:08 Uncovered Warranty Frustrations

    06:41 "Extended Warranties: A Cautious Approach"

    11:11 Weekend Car Clinic Event

    14:59 Quarterly Vehicle Safety Workshops

    17:21 "Community Building with Autofix Advisor"


    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!

    19 min
  • How To Improve the Vehicle Check-In Process at Repair Shops

    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. 


    Today, Michael Doherty talks about managing vehicle check-ins through the lens of offense vs defense. He says you should take an offensive approach by documenting the vehicle's condition with photos and notes during the check-in process. Additionally, he discusses how to improve customer satisfaction by cleaning the interior of their vehicle. Finally, Michael encourages collaboration between service advisors and technicians to ensure customer vehicles are treated with care.

    00:00 Encouraging Night Drops for Efficiency

    05:47 Pre-Service Vehicle Check Protocol

    08:19 Car Maintenance Tips

    12:26 Missed Opportunity in Car Detailing

    13:57 Interior Trim Clips Advice

    16:38 Revitalizing Advisors: Autofix Podcast


    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!

    17 min
  • How To Improve Your First Impressions With Customers As A Service Advisor

    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 gives you tips on how to provide exceptional customer experience as a service advisor. Michael stresses the importance of first impressions and the need to create customer confidence through effective communication and product knowledge. Lastly, Michael says you build trust by following through with promises, such as timely updates and personalized service.

    00:00 First Impressions in Customer Service

    06:06 Enhancing Customer Confidence

    08:08 "Communication Builds Trust with Clients"

    13:03 "Building Trust Through Car Repair"

    14:05 Service Completion Documentation Process

    17:21 Self-Care and Shop Success


    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!

    19 min
  • Top Tips for Managing Parts As An Advisor

    Today, Michael Doherty tells you why it's important to have efficient parts processes in place, such as setting up a Bluetooth doorbell to improve awareness when parts arrive. What do you do with the parts once they arrive, though? That's another key step, and he shares that in today's episode.  

    00:00 "Office Efficiency in Parts Management"

    04:41 Ensuring Quality and Accountability

    10:06 Top 20 Clients Appreciation Strategy

    11:16 Staff Concerns: Shop Owners' Worries

    16:49 Client Retention Through Transparency

    17:28 Vision Expo Kansas City Invitation

    19 min
  • Kacie Presnall's Advice to Advisors

    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. 


    Today, Chris is joined by Kacie Presnell. Kacie shares her thoughts from her experience in improving service advisor's skills. A key focus she stresses is to personalize communication with each customer. Additionally, Kacie says it's also important for technicians to be involved in the diagnostic process with advisors. 

    00:00 Paramedic vs. ER Nurse Stress

    04:39 Overwhelmed by Auto Maintenance Lists

    07:47 Inspection Expectations and Customer Training

    11:18 Pay Frequency and Financing Options

    14:25 Post-Election Spending Relaxation on Vehicles

    16:10 Expensive Vehicles and Parts Obsolescence

    22:22 Deflecting Blame in Auto Conversations

    23:48 Balanced Car Assessment: Highlight Positives

    28:03 Autofix Advisor Cast Conclusion


    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!

    29 min

About AutoFix AdvisorCast

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to AutoFix AdvisorCast, the podcast where automotive service advisors finally have a place to call home. Hosted by industry veteran Michael Doherty, with over 28 years of experience in the trenches, this show dives deep into the challenges, frustrations, and demands of being a service advisor in the independent auto repair world. AutoFix: AdvisorCast isn’t just about problems; it’s about solutions. Michael Doherty shares best practices, actionable tips, war stories, and fresh ideas from the front lines of advising. Michael’s mission is simple: to help service advisors and shop owners right the ship of the automotive industry by equipping them with the knowledge, community, and support they need. Michael started his journey in 1996 and has done it all—from vehicle detailing to client-guided sales, parts procurement, and managing shop workload. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Michael is a husband, father, and a passionate advocate for improving the service advisor role. Join him and take the first steps toward becoming a better, more profitable, and less stressed service advisor.

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