5 Personality traits Great Mechanics need to have
Joshua Taylor
Content without the hassles || Video Editor || Podcast Host || Data Nerd || VP of Fixed Operations || Bearded Brother || Mechanic
Personality Profile:
If you know me, you know I support people who cut the bullshit, get to the point, and execute. Sean Welsh @ Car Biz Done Better exudes that trait. It's why I had a little sneaky sneak on the title for this article. Love you man!
But seriously, it's these kinds of things, personality traits, that we as mechanics and service leaders, may overlook. Joe Chambers and Erick Jauregui know this, which is why "the 5 non-negotiables for hiring and keeping technicians" was the topic for today's Service Drive Live .
As a mechanic, I don't think I ever truly "thought" about what my "traits" were, at least when I wasn't in an interview trying to pull the proverbial wool over their eyes because I had no idea what I was talking about.
Now that I'm older, have been in a few chairs of authority, hung around with some next-level leaders, and had more than 100 1:1's with mechanics, I've started to develop my own theories about those 5.
To be honest, I couldn't narrow it down to a genuine 5. Every time I did, I found myself saying "but...". That's when I realized that personality traits are a balancing act with respect to action.
Perhaps by reading further, like reading T.A.G.R., you'll find the answer to your own traits or create your own 5, by reading a line, or the rest of the article.
Patient but time-conscious
Being patient is essential in the automotive industry as it requires a great deal of attention to detail and focus. When repairing a vehicle, a mechanic will take the necessary time to identify and diagnose the problem correctly, ensuring the repair is done thoroughly and accurately. However, at the same time, any desirable mechanic will also be time-conscious, recognizing that their customers, and their leaders, want the vehicles to be repaired as quickly as possible. Great mechanics will work efficiently to minimize downtime, while also balancing the need to be thorough and accurate.
...in practice
Imagine a customer brings in their car for repair, and the problem is not immediately apparent. An ideal automotive mechanic will take the time to thoroughly investigate the issue, using their knowledge and expertise to diagnose the problem accurately. They will take care to be patient and thorough, ensuring that they identify the root cause of the issue. At the same time, they will be time-conscious, recognizing that the customer wants their vehicle repaired as quickly as possible.
Knowing when to stop yourself from falling down the rabbit hole of diagnosis when “something doesn’t make sense” is a learned skill. Just like learning when you “just need to try this first” before walking over to the foreman for help.
Loyal but with boundaries
Loyalty is a critical trait in the automotive industry, as customers want to work with someone they trust, and mechanics with someone that can lead. An ideal mechanic needs to prioritize their customers and build a strong rapport with them, by inspiring trust and confidence using their skills and abilities. However, an ideal mechanic will also have boundaries, recognizing when to draw the line to avoid being taken advantage of. They will maintain a professional distance while still demonstrating loyalty and commitment to their customers.
...in practice
Suppose a Service Leader asks their mechanic to stay late, to finish the repair they are working on. Many mechanics, will simply say yes, after a bit of grumbling, every time. However, great leaders, and great mechanics, also have boundaries. Recognizing when a leader is asking too often or too much and is taking advantage of their goodwill.?
When a Service leader asks something of a Mechanic
No mechanic should say “yes” 10 out of 10 times.
It means they don’t have goals and/or priorities in and outside of work.
No mechanic should say “no” 10 out of 10 times.
It means they have priorities, and the business isn’t one of them.
Respectful but arrogant
Respect is essential in any professional setting, and the automotive repair industry is no exception. An ideal mechanic will treat their customers and baymates with respect, demonstrating kindness and consideration at all times. At the same time, an ideal mechanic will also possess a healthy dose of arrogance, instilling confidence in their customers and demonstrating their expertise in the field. They will be highly confident in their abilities, but will also recognize the importance of humility and continued learning.
领英推荐
...in practice
Imagine a customer comes in with a complex engine issue that they've been unable to solve, despite trying to diagnose the problem themselves. An ideal automotive mechanic will treat the customer (or advisor) with respect, listening carefully to their description of the problem and asking questions to clarify any details. At the same time, they will also demonstrate a healthy level of arrogance, instilling confidence in the customer that they are an expert in their field. They will be confident in their ability to diagnose and repair the issue, explaining their thought process and methodology clearly to the customer.
The key here is to be clear and with a "healthy" level. If you come across as having an "unhealthy" amount of arrogance, you're just an asshole.
Ambitious but cautious
An ideal mechanic will be ambitious, striving to improve their skills and knowledge in the field continuously. They will be driven to excel and stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, techniques, and tools, seeking out new challenges and opportunities for growth. However, an ideal mechanic will also be cautious, recognizing the importance of knowing when NOT to push. They will find a balance between ambition and caution, taking on new challenges with care and attention to detail.
...in practice
Suppose an automotive mechanic has been working in the industry for several years and has developed a reputation for their skill and expertise. So they're happy to jump into an NS diagnostic (no start) on a brand-new model, the new 2030 "Doc" edition Dodge Hornet. Typically, after 2 hours of diagnostic time, this technician has already sussed out the root cause of failure, sent a P/A, and written 2 pages of a story. Today, some things not connecting. However, because of experience, the technician is going to stop here, and ask for help; instead of falling down the spiraling rabbit hole of self-doubt, triple-checking steps, and wasting precious time.
Polite but self-aware
Politeness is a crucial trait for automotive mechanics, who must interact with customers, leaders, Service Advisors, and bay mates on a daily basis. An ideal mechanic will be polite and professional, communicating effectively and respectfully even in the most challenging situations. They will demonstrate empathy and understanding, while also maintaining a firm and confident demeanor. At the same time, an ideal mechanic will be self-aware, recognizing their own limitations, and the limitations of the situation. Being aware of when to halt "polite" and exchange for "professionally aggressive" or walk away.
...in practice
Imagine a customer comes in with a problem that the automotive mechanic has never encountered before. An ideal automotive mechanic will be polite and professional, demonstrating empathy and understanding for the customer's situation. They will communicate clearly and respectfully, explaining their thought process and asking questions to clarify any details. At the same time, they will also be self-aware, recognizing when communication is breaking down and a need to step back is being presented.
There is no "one-size-fits-all" mechanic. An ideal automotive mechanic, for leadership, will possess a unique set of personality traits that contribute to the success of the business, as it aligns with the rest of the time as well as ownership's vision. By embodying these traits, we mechanics can build strong relationships with customers and colleagues, while providing S-Tier service and achieving great success in our careers.
j.
Bonus "traits" that I could into great detail about, and will, at a later date.
.....Remember, don't put it down, put it away.
If this article was helpful to you, I would appreciate you leaving a comment, sharing it, or showing it to someone you think could utilize it.
Also, if you want to read more on the subject, Mr. Russell Wickham posted a great piece earlier today; M.E.C.H.A.N.I.C ...check it out HERE
The paperwork: