I’ve been talking (check out my previous columns HERE) about the importance of training and this time I wanted to fold in how being an exceptional Leader is not only crucial for the successful running of your shop, but that Leadership can be learned. You may not think of yourself as the Leader of your business and you may not be right now, but learning how to be a Leader (and not a best friend or coworker) will lead to greater profits.
Running an auto repair shop is more than just managing invoices and ordering parts. It requires strong Leadership to build a successful, profitable and smoothly operating business. Leadership in an auto repair shop means guiding your team, improving efficiency, fostering a positive work culture and ultimately making sure your business thrives while giving you the financial freedom and work-life balance you deserve.
If you want to become the best Leader possible for your business, you need to invest in training and self-improvement. Leadership isn’t something you’re born with—it’s a skill that can be developed with intentional effort. Here’s how you can train to be the best Leader for your auto repair business.
1. Understand Your Role as a Leader
Many shop owners get stuck in the day-to-day grind of running a business. But Leadership means stepping up and seeing the bigger picture. Your role isn’t just to work in the business - it’s to work on the business.
A fantastic leader:
- Sets the vision and direction for the shop.
- Creates a positive and productive shop culture.
- Empowers employees to take ownership of their work.
- Develop systems that keep the shop running smoothly without micromanagement.
- Focus on financial health and long-term growth.
Shifting your mindset from being just a technician or manager to being a true Leader is the first and most critical step.
2. Develop Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication is the backbone of great Leadership. As a shop owner, you need to be able to clearly articulate expectations, provide constructive feedback and motivate your team.
Ways to Improve Communication:
- Active Listening: Pay attention to your employees’ concerns and ideas. Make them feel heard and valued.
- Clarity and Conciseness: When giving instructions or discussing business matters, be clear and to the point.
- Regular Team Meetings: Hold weekly or daily huddles to keep everyone on the same page and reinforce your shop’s goals.
- Conflict Resolution: Learn how to address and resolve conflicts quickly and fairly before they affect morale and productivity.
3. Invest in Leadership Training and Education
If you want to be a great Leader, you have to learn from the best. Invest in Leadership training programs, workshops and books that focus on business management and leadership skills.
Training Resources:
- Industry-Specific Coaching Programs: There are coaching groups and business development programs designed specifically for auto repair shop owners. I’d be remiss, if I didn’t mention here that I’ve worked for DRIVE for over 20 years…a great management training company…if I do say so myself!
- Books on Leadership: Consider reading classics like The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber or Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink.
- Networking with Other Shop Owners: Join auto shop business groups or attend industry events to learn from other successful shop owners. This is a key point. Having a group of like-minded people that you can reach out to during both good and bad times, is invaluable.
4. Build a Strong and Motivated Team
Your employees are the heart of your business. A strong leader knows how to hire, train and retain great technicians and service advisors.
How to Build a Great Team:
- Hire for Attitude, Train for Skill: It’s easier to teach skills than to change a bad attitude. Focus on hiring employees who align with your shop’s culture and values.
- Offer Ongoing Training: Invest in technical and customer service training to keep your team sharp and up-to-date.
- Provide Growth Opportunities: Create a path for advancement so employees see a future in your shop.
- Recognize and Reward Performance: Show appreciation through bonuses, public recognition, or incentives.
5. Improve Your Business Systems and Processes
A Leader doesn’t just keep things running - they build systems that allow the shop to operate efficiently without constant oversight. If your business relies on you for every decision, you’re not Leading - you’re just managing problems.
Steps to Improve Systems:
- Document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Ensure that every process, from vehicle intake to final quality checks, is standardized.
- Utilize Shop Management Software: Streamline scheduling, invoicing and parts ordering to reduce inefficiencies.
- Delegate Responsibilities: Empower your team by assigning responsibilities based on their strengths and trust them to execute.
- Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Track labor efficiency, customer satisfaction and profit margins to make data-driven decisions.
6. Lead by Example
Your team will follow your lead, so set the right example. If you want a culture of professionalism, efficiency and customer service, you need to embody those qualities yourself.
Ways to Lead by Example:
- Demonstrate a Strong Work Ethic: Show up on time, stay disciplined and be proactive.
- Maintain a Positive Attitude: Your attitude sets the tone for the entire shop. Stay calm and solution-focused, even during stressful times.
- Be Willing to Do the Work: While you should step back from daily operations, being willing to jump in and help when needed earns respect from your team.
7. Manage Your Time Effectively
A good leader doesn’t get buried in busy work. To be effective, you must prioritize high-value tasks that grow your business instead of just keeping it afloat.
Time Management Tips:
- Block Time for Strategic Work: Set aside dedicated time each week to focus on business growth and leadership training – this is your ‘executive’ time.
- Eliminate Low-Value Tasks: Delegate administrative work so you can focus on Leading.
- Use a Daily Planner or Digital Tools: Stay organized.
8. Seek Feedback and Continuously Improve
Leadership is a continuous journey, not a destination. Be open to feedback from your team, customers and mentors. The best Leaders are always learning and improving.
Ways to Get Feedback:
- Employee Surveys: Ask your team for honest feedback on what’s working and what’s not.
- Customer Reviews: Monitor reviews and use feedback to enhance customer service.
- Self-Reflection: Take time to assess your strengths and weaknesses as a leader.
9. Take Care of Yourself
You can’t be a great leader if you’re burned out. Running an auto repair shop is demanding, but you need to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Self-Care Strategies:
- Prioritize Health: Exercise, eat well and get enough sleep.
- Set Boundaries: Don’t work 24/7 - make time for family and personal interests.
- Take Breaks: Step away from the shop occasionally to recharge and gain new perspectives.
Training to be the best Leader for your auto repair shop is an ongoing process. It requires self-awareness, a commitment to learning and a willingness to implement new strategies. By improving your communication, building strong teams, streamlining systems and leading by example, you can create a shop that runs smoothly, stays profitable and allows you to achieve the financial freedom you deserve.
Leadership isn’t about working harder - it’s about working smarter and empowering others. Start implementing these strategies today and you’ll see the transformation in your shop, your team and your own life.
