Search the Community

When speaking to shop owners, it still appears that many are still looking to hire a qualified tech. It has gotten better, and I believe it's because most shop owners are more willing to create a better workplace and pay package. What are your top ways or thoughts on attracting and keeping auto techs?

We often speak of the "Customer Experience," which is crucial to the success of your auto repair shop. But equally important is the "Employee Experience." I don't have to remind anyone that happy employees make happy customers, but this concept goes even further. If you want to attract superstar candidates and hold on to the superstars you employ right now, you must do all you can to ensure that your employees have a healthy workplace where they are appreciated and can grow and enrich their careers. I know we have a lot of great shop owners on this forum. What do you do to create a great workplace environment that both attracts and retains top talent?

It's a safe bet that nearly every auto repair shop is looking to hire an employee, most likely a technician. While I am a big proponent of a plan to recruit constantly, we can never forget about the employees we have right now. Do all you can to create a healthy workplace with high morale. Have a one-on-one with all your employees. Find out what they like about working at your repair shop and perhaps more importantly, what they would like to change. Ask your employees what they would do to improve your company. If you have never done this before, you may get the "deer in the headlights" look, but don't worry, keep asking and in time your employees will be a great resource for you. When people feel appreciated and know that their opinion counts, it helps them from looking over the fence for greener grass. What do you do at your auto repair shop to help retain your employees?

With the difficulty auto repair shops have these days finding quality techs, I thought it would be a good idea to share our ideas on what ways have worked for you. Please post what has worked for you in the past when looking to hire a technician.

Yesterday, around mid-day, I headed out to run a number of errands. I first stopped for a quick lunch, then on to the hardware store, the beer distributor (for Father's Day BBQ), the grocery store, and then I went to Staples to pick up a few shipping cardboard boxes. EVERY place I went to had a sign out in front: NOW HIRING! I don't get it, where are all the workers? The unemployment rate is at 3.6%. Does that really reflect the number of people out of work, or is the number higher when we factor in those that don't want to enter the workforce or those that have left the workforce? Something doesn't add up.

Shop Owners, do you have an apprenticeship program at your shop? If not, why not? With so many shops looking for techs these days, perhaps one of the best ways is to grow your own. On of the best programs out there is the NAPA Apprenticeship Program. https://member.napaautocare.com/getmedia/3f59adca-04c7-4be1-9f79-c551a25f0065/1-AutoCare-Apprentice-Program-Handbooks.pdf?ext=.pdf I know, I know, you may have immediate needs for a tech, I get that. But if we all start today to hire an apprentice, we are building for the future. And with the right program, you can get a tech up to speed in a lot less time than you think. Plus, how long have you been looking for that tech you need? I would like to hear from shop that have an apprenticeship program, and how it's working for them.

With so much talk these days about the technician shortage, I thought it would be a great idea to share a few recruiting tips that have helped. What tip can you share that you have had great success with?