An auto shop service manager needs to be passionate about vehicles. He has to possess in-depth knowledge about automotive repair, parts, and accessories. He needs to love handling vehicles throughout the day and night and extended service hours. He should be able to stand the smell of smoke and fumes inside the auto shop. As the manager, he needs to be good at dealing with people at the auto shop. Customers who have inquiries that the personnel are incapable of answering can be transferred to him. He also gives his personnel daily responsibilities. He sees to it that the auto shop procedures and operations are performed well.
Training Requirements
In general, a university degree or certificate related to automotive technology is needed for a candidate to be accepted as an auto shop service manager. However, if this is not evident, prior experience in handling vehicles is appropriate. Knowledge about how different vehicles operate is also a must. He must know what suppliers are good in getting replacement parts and accessories from. He also makes sure that the receipts are computed correctly. The customers must be satisfied with the quality of the repair done in the auto shop. When the date of pick-up becomes available, the vehicle must be ready. This encourages the customer to refer the auto shop to other people for good and efficient service.
Communication Skills
Within the auto shop, the service manager observes what his crew is doing and how they are communicating with the customers. By making rounds in the auto shop, he becomes aware of all the operations inside. His good oral and written communication skills are beneficial in socializing with the customers. When he can establish rapport with them, the customers tend to appreciate the service more. They will love to have their vehicles repaired in that auto shop. Since vehicle repair involves a lot of dust and dirt, the manager needs to like being in this kind of workplace all day and night.
Operating the Auto Shop
The operations of the auto shop are important for the service manager to oversee daily. The customers want a clean and well-maintained area while they visit it. When hazardous materials are going to be disposed and handled, they have to be done in accordance with the local, state, and federal guidelines. Certified smog tester certificates are required of an auto shop service manager since the emission laws can be strict. He sees to it that his crew is doing their duties well and attending to the customers appropriately. Perhaps, when the operations of the auto shop are good, it is the service manager who will be commended for good performance.
Compensation and Growth
Since an auto shop service manager is required to be knowledgeable of automotive technology, he receives a good rate. When he possesses a Master’s degree related to this kind of work, he will be more favorable in the evaluation of potential bosses. He can be assigned to work in a larger auto shop and be its service manager. It will be to his advantage that he can socialize with more customers depending on the target market of the auto shop. He can build long-term relationships with his customers.*
*According to the BLS, http://www.bls.gov/oco/
