You see it every day. Some individuals seem to "naturally" excel at what they do. Sure, there are many factors involved, but most of the time, people excel because they have the correct attitude.

These "cream of the crop" folks are easy to spot in employee groups. They arrive for work on time; their production volume is good, but not at the expense of quality. Also, they consider their occupation to be a profession, and they are proud of their performance. If this sounds like an ideal employee, it's just the type of professional who would participate in the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) voluntary certification program.

Certifying automotive professionals since 1972, ASE uses industry-developed tests that represent both industry and national standards for job skills know-how. The unique position of ASE, as a third-party, independent evaluator, allows the program to fit into most employer situations, including those involving labor unions.

For the employee, ASE certification offers the opportunity to prove to themselves and others that they are among the top in their peer group. Certification reflects achievement and demonstrates a commitment to the automotive service and repair profession. It demonstrates the "can-do" attitude of an individual who is secure in their ability and is more than happy to prove it.

For the employer, ASE certification can benefit in many ways. First, it can be used to evaluate potential new hires. Additionally, knowledge gained preparing for the exams can be directly applied in the service bay. More productivity and fewer "comebacks" are the result. Finally, certification can be used as part of a marketing program for the shop. More and more consumers understand what ASE certification means and look for certified technicians to service their vehicles. ASE even offers the Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition Program for those shops that exhibit a high level of support for certification.

To start an ASE certification program with your employees, you must encourage them to become certified. Most employers accomplish this by reimbursing test and registration fees to employees for passed exams. Also, the number of ASE certifications an individual holds is often considered as a part of the framework for determining compensation levels. One of the most important things that you can do is to recognize certified employees by proudly displaying their credentials on a "Wall of Fame" in the customer waiting area. This serves to honor certified employees and is also part of your consumer marketing program.

Initially, don't be concerned if only a few employees respond to the program. As soon as some of them earn ASE certification, others will want it too. Keep the program fresh and in the forefront by adding your organization to the ASE mailing list. This will allow you to receive regular mailings of registration booklets, deadline reminder posters and ASE's award-winning "Blue Seal Tech News" quarterly newsletter. By all means, contact ASE so that we can help you enhance your certification efforts. Our toll-free information line is (877) ASE-TECH (273-8324), or visit our Web site (www.asecert.org).

Tony Molla is vice president of industry affairs for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) in Herndon, Va. He has more than 30 years of experience in the automotive service industry and is the former editorial director of ABRN and Motor Age magazines. During his career, he has held positions as an ASE-certified technician, PBE counterman, service manager, parts store manager, technical editor, and has written several technical service manuals.

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