When You Can’t Buy It, Building It Expands Your Shop Capabilities.
We all get crazy ideas from time to time. Sometimes we see something and that sparks an idea. Other times we’ll have a need and, “necessity being the mother of invention,” we come up with an idea of how to build that special part or tool that would fix the problem. The majority of the
Driven to Succeed
Optimize Personal Performance To Maximize Professional Profits I was looking back over the past 10 years since my first article appeared in the May 2008 Engine Builder issue and noticed a trend. Much of what I write about has to do with performance. Not speed or high performance, but something that might resemble personal performance. While
The Parts Sale Awakens
I have proposed five sales strategies based on successful businesses. But even these distant outposts have had to adjust to the new cyber-marketplace today.
Trying to Find the Future in My Crystal Ball-Micrometer
The Machine Shop Market Profile in the June issue of Engine Builder was a bit of an eye opener for me. I was not surprised by the fact that the biggest problem we have as an industry is finding good help in the form of qualified employees.
First Impressions: What Did I See When I Came To Visit?
They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression. I think most dads can relate to the idea of a first impression if you’ve ever had to meet a daughter’s new boyfriend. Moms can relate as well, but their expectations may be different. We can all remember when we were that boyfriend or bringing home that boyfriend and the impressions we made, which were not always that good. This may have had an impact on your relationship, and your happiness.
From Good to Great – Simple Ideas to Take Your Business to Another Level
Recently, sales figures nationally have been flat at best, and there are far more shops closing than new ones opening. But there are shining stars that still beg to be recognized. These vibrant, busy and profitable businesses can’t help but beg attention. These owners are well aware that others may not be seeing comparable prosperity,
Right to Assemble – Assembly, The First Amendment to the Constitution
The right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances. It is often forgotten that the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States gives the American people, including persons in the automotive industry, the rights to peaceful assembly and to petition the government for redress
The Great Crate Debate – Profit Potential From Packaged Engine Programs Actually Exists
Right now I know of no other term that draws as much negativity among some engine builders as the term “Crate Motor.” It immediately brings feelings of sales lost. We all know the story. The customer sees his car project like one big plastic model. When it comes time to pick a rear differential, write
Take Our Business Back – Let’s Stop Talking About the Parts Sales Dilemma and Do Something
What has me so fired up recently is a report I read in another industry magazine written by a UPS executive, who was reporting on a study they did on consumer online purchases and the automotive industry. Of course, this is a good thing for a carrier, as the greater the online purchases, the more
A Tale of Two Markets – Dealing with the Times
A couple of months ago, I approached this industry’s parts sales problem through some statistics. Now I’d like to look at things from another angle, or maybe two. I don’t think there is one reader who would argue that engine parts sales today are much different than they were even 10 years ago. Though it doesn’t
RELATIONSHIPS – Saving them without a therapist
How’s your relationship? I hope things are good at home, but I was thinking about at the workplace. Merriam-Webster defines relationship as: “The way in which two or more people, groups, countries, etc., talk to, behave toward, and deal with each other.” Have you ever stopped to think about your relationships with your customers? How
Profitable Performance – Sell Value Before Price
Selling value is all about selling you. Yes, this is the time to roll it all out. Your years in business represent security. Your vast resources and a belief in using quality products is important as well. Everyone knows quality costs a little more, and the implication is that it is worth it.
