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Climbing to the TopPosted 5/15/2003By Denny Kahler, AAM I'm driven by several passions. One of those passions is working to improve myself, my business and my industry. I cannot improve any of these, including myself, by being semi-reclusive. The way to get better is to get out and meet people who can help raise the standards, people with similar passions for improvement. At the risk of oversimplification, when I look at our industry, I see three levels of shops. The bottom level is owned by individuals who are, basically, content with the status quo. They believe (incorrectly) they're successful because they're able to open for business every day. I see these shops all over the country. And, some are moderately successful; but most are unwittingly doing all they can to remain in business and perpetuate the negative stereotypes most of us are trying to kill. Frankly, they embarrass the industry. Many of these shops are at a point where they could go up or down. When they go down, they tend to die a slow death with the owner trying to fend off bankruptcy so the shop will survive long enough to carry him to Social Security. When these shops go up, it's because the owner has that drive to make things better. He or she realizes there's a better way. Perhaps they've been inspired by the more successful shops in their area. They want to go from the lower level to ... The middle level, comprised of people who understand the importance of investing in their shops. They know good techs, good equipment and good customers don't just happen. They've made a conscious decision to bring them to their shops. Many join ASA and other industry groups to take advantage of member benefits, information and education, all of which help elevate themselves and their businesses. What's missing, though, is a consistent, one-on-one contact with those shop owners whom we would describe as highly successful. That personal contact is available through ASA at the Annual Convention, CARS, NACE and hundreds of local events across the country, but the majority of members do not make the effort to get out of the shop and take part in these events. Other programs, such as 20 groups, are also available to help someone grow. Those who do take part in these types of industry groups often find the path leading to ... The top level, which includes people who are not necessarily smarter than those in the middle, but people who've given life to their desire to improve. It's not easy. It takes a willingness to leave the shop - sometimes for two or three days at a time - and meet with peers who can help you grow and succeed. (Incidentally, you're helping them grow while they're helping you.) ASA events, Automotive Management Institute courses, 20 groups and other industry programs provide opportunities to help people move to the top. If you're passionate about improving yourself, your business and your industry, just as I am, then give life to your passion. Get out. Get involved. We're not at the top yet, so let's keep climbing.
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