You should go to the same car mechanic every time you need service!
Whenever I see an ad about an “Auto Shop You Can Trust,” I want to scream.
It’s so sad that drivers don’t trust us. They really think we aren’t looking out for their best interests. Every driver doesn’t feel this way, but the majority does.
Heck, a new survey by AAA found that 66% of people think repair shops are dishonest. Brutal!
I’d like to address both drivers and auto professionals in this blog. Let’s start with drivers. Hey! 🙂 You should know there are good reasons to go steady with a car mechanic.
Let’s say you’ve been with a partner for several years.
One day, they randomly forget to take out the trash. Would you dump them on the spot? Nope! That would be the biggest overreaction ever.
Relationships are complicated. They require maintenance just like cars. You don’t give up at the first sign of a problem. You figure out what caused it. Later, you can prevent similar situations.
Automobiles are complicated machines. They all have unique quirks. Maybe your engine runs really hot (that means you need to pull over to prevent overheating). Maybe leaks develop in certain places under your car (that means to inspect that area).
A car mechanic won’t notice this stuff immediately. That’s why you need to communicate your concerns!
You can’t get to know a person until you devote a certain amount of time and attention to them. Your car is the same way. Go steady with a mechanic and they’ll have an opportunity to diagnose these problems before you get stuck with a big repair.
If you go to a different auto shop or PPA* for every service, you’ll never experience what I’m talking about. It’s like going on a ton of first dates in a row. You’ll never develop a true connection with anyone, because you never gave them a fair chance.
I’m not saying you should settle for the first guy, girl, or auto shop that comes along. Terrible idea! You should feel comfortable, have things in common, expect to be treated with compassion, and participate in the change… but you’ve gotta let someone in eventually!
*PPA stands for “person-to-person adviser.” They are like hotel concierges for auto repair shops. PPA’s are able to lead drivers through an auto awareness tutorial, which reveals the most important aspects of owning and operating a vehicle. For more information about the Drivers Auto Know PPA Training and Certification Program, email info@WomenAutoKnow.com.
Let’s switch gears and talk to auto professionals.
(If you’re a driver, keep reading. These tips will help you find an auto shop that’s right for you.)
Hello there! How can you create an environment that encourages drivers to trust you?
First, create a great first impression.
That means having a smile. A clean lobby and restroom help, too. People should feel comfortable at your shop!
If you’ve got certifications from a trade school or respected organization, put them in a frame and hang them up at your service desk. This indicates you are educated and invest in your profession.
Second, show people you care.
Ask: “How’s it going?” or, “How are you?”
Sounds simple, but you’d be amazed how many people don’t do it.
I like to ask people for their car’s name. Or simply ask: “Is it a boy or girl?” People feel more connected to things with names. If they don’t know, help them make up a name on the spot.
Third, stop making people feel confused.
Drivers haven’t spent years working through the technological automotive advancement like you and me. The words we use everyday will sound like a foreign language to them.
If you start babbling about fuel injection systems, combustion, and emissions, their eyes will probably cross over. Talk in plain words that make sense. This is how to relate!
If a driver doesn’t have a clue: be of service. Walk them to their car, pop open the hood, show them the problem, and explain how you will solve it.
Fourth, do an excellent job.
Take pride in your work. Do the repair right the first time. Never take your role lightly.
You are responsible for driver awareness and the safety of every single vehicle you touch.
If those two key attributes improve, that is a direct reflection of you, the service you provided, and the auto industry as a whole. Customers will recognize your efforts and appreciate your community service.
Auto professionals: Follow these four practices and you’ll never struggle for work at your shop.
Drivers: Expect your auto shop home to follow these four practices, because you deserve to be treated well by the professionals you trust with your business.
Do you know a driver or car mechanic who would enjoy this blog? If so, feel free to share on social media!