Unconventional Path
Joshua Taylor
Creator of Digital Content, Herald of Mental Health, 7th of My Name, Innovator of Automotive Business, Automotive Podcast Host, Rider of Motorcycles, Husband, and Father.
Welcome back, folks. It's another exciting edition of the Wrenches for Wrenches Newsletter!
YES, I am that positive.
Last year, plus a few days, we had the pleasure of hosting Ansley Williams , the dynamic Chief Revenue Officer at Cascade Development Consulting, Inc. (CDC). If you've ever wondered how diverse experiences can culminate in automotive excellence, buckle up. Ansley's journey is a testament to the magnetic pull of the automotive industry, and her story is one that will inspire, and enlighten you.
PS... here's a TL;DR, in case you're not a big reader
EDUCATION SESSION AT THE BOTTOM!
Ansley's Rocky Road
Ansley isn't your typical automotive industry professional. In fact, she admits, "I am not your classic automotive industry person." With a background as eclectic as a carnival, Ansley has worked in national division retail, private aviation, digital marketing, and large group insurance. Her journey into the automotive world is a fascinating tale of how diverse experiences can be woven together to create a tapestry of success.
"Most people I've talked to have been in the industry their entire career," Ansley shared. "But I have the weirdest, strangest career background that somehow landed me here." And land she did, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective that has proven invaluable in her role at CDC.
Ansley is a MASTER spreadsheeter. YES, that's a word, at least in my head. We dug deep into many different areas (outside of the podcast) where we both immediately push data to a spreadsheet to get a better understanding where opporunities lie. DO NOT HESITATE to reach out to her when you have data that you don't understand. I'd put money on her figuring it out, with a spreadsheet.
The Automotive Pull: Once In, Always In
The automotive industry has a peculiar way of drawing people in and keeping them hooked. As Ansley pointed out, "Once you get into the automotive industry, people will spend 10, 15, 20 years in it, and even if they leave for a while, something always pulls them back in." This gravitational pull is a testament to the industry's dynamic nature and the unique challenges and rewards it offers.
For Ansley, it wasn't just about finding a job; it was about finding a place where she could use every skill set she had amassed over the years. "I get to use literally every skill set that I have and then some," she said with enthusiasm. "It's bizarre to me, but I can't imagine doing anything else now."
Transparency and Communication: The Cornerstones of Success
In our conversation, one theme that kept resurfacing was the importance of transparency and clear communication. Ansley emphasized, "Technicians are the lifeblood of a dealership. They often go unappreciated, but their value is immense." This lack of appreciation often stems from a breakdown in communication and a lack of transparency within the organization.
Ansley recounted a story that perfectly illustrated this point. While working on a maintenance menu, she found that a particular line item was causing confusion. "I need you to explain it to me like I am a three-year-old," she told the technicians. It took multiple explanations before they collectively realized the redundancy. This experience underscored the importance of simplifying communication to ensure everyone is on the same page.
You can find Ansley's Full Length interview on YouTube, or keep reading.
Finding Your Why
At the heart of Ansley's message was the importance of understanding your "why." She elaborated, "Regardless of what you do, you need to understand your real why. It's not about the paycheck or the shiny toolbox. It's about something deeper." For Ansley, this deeper purpose is what keeps her motivated, even on the toughest days.
I really resonated with this sentiment. Tough days leads parallel to my journey of finding purpose through the legacy left by my grandfathers. "Leaving a legacy for your children and grandchildren is about more than just business success," I said.
"It's about service above self, and when you focus on that, everything else falls into place." - Joshua Taylor
Building a Supportive Community
One of the highlights of Ansley's career has been her involvement in coaching and mentorship. She believes that technicians often lack the support they need to thrive. "Technicians are the most underrepresented and sometimes underappreciated group within a shop or dealership," Ansley noted. "They need mentors and leaders who understand their challenges and can guide them toward success."
I echoed this sentiment, adding, "After my first shop foreman, I no longer had a leader who could show me the direction I needed to go based on my current aspirations." This lack of leadership can leave technicians feeling lost and undervalued, which is why coaching and mentorship are crucial for fostering a positive work environment.
Journaling: A Simple Yet Powerful Tool
In her work with CDC, Ansley has introduced various innovative practices to improve technician well-being and productivity. One such practice is journaling. She shared a story about how a simple journaling exercise transformed a team's dynamic. "All my team did was journal. It cost me a dollar per technician for a bit of paper, and it led to increases in productivity and morale," Ansley recounted.
"Journaling helps you see the small steps between the steps." ... I'll continue to say this as often as I can.
It's a way to gain insight into what you're doing well and where you can improve. This simple tool can lead to significant changes, helping technicians feel more engaged and valued.
Legacy and Impact
As the conversation delved deeper, the discussion turned to the concept of legacy. Ansley's work at CDC is about more than just immediate results; it's about creating lasting change. "When you truly understand your why and focus on service above self, you start to win on levels you never knew you could," Ansley said.
My grandfathers dedicated their lives to their community. Their legacy is permanent, and it's something I strive to emulate in my own work. This commitment to legacy is what drives me, and Ansley to continue pushing for excellence in the automotive industry.
Embracing the Future: A Call to Action
As we wrap up this edition of the Newsletter, I'm reminded of the incredible power of purpose, transparency, and mentorship. Ansley's journey is a testament to the transformative impact these principles can have, not just in the automotive industry, but in any field, and life.
So, what's your why? What drives you to get out of bed every morning and give your best? Take a moment to reflect on this, and remember that the journey to finding your purpose is just as important as the destination.
Because "WHY" came up so often during this episode, I built a short exercise you can do in your Journal, to help you take the next steps in your career. Doesn't matter if you are already a leader or not, this, will help.
Finding Your Motivation: Understanding and Communicating Your "Why"... Loosely
Materials Needed
Step 1: Journal, Reflection, and Research
Why Do I Work as a Mechanic?
Folks, I ask this in every episode of Wrench Turners Podcast. "What go you into automotive" for the folks that aren't Mechanics or "what was the reason you became a Mechanic". There are over 70 1:1 episodes where I ask this. Go listen to any one of them for inspiration, if it doesn't immediately come to mind.
What Do I Enjoy Most About My Job?
领英推荐
Be VERY specific. The more specific you can be, the better. The more you can list, the better. Do not be discouraged
EG. I really like to Re/Re the Transmission on a 2007 Dodge Caravan and replace the Torque Converter. It doesn't have to be repair either. It can also be the comraderie with your bay mates. But still, be specific.
Long-Term Goal
MUST be professional, not personal, and it must have a deadline.
EG. I want to complete all diagnostic training on all Transmission faults on Dodge Transmissions by December 31st, 2025.
EG. I need to complete the remaining level 3 online Transmission Diagnostic training and attend the 3 in-class level 4 diagnostic training sessions.
Step 2: Leadership Discussion
If you don't trust your Boss with this information, please reach out to me. I can help you work through some of this. Trust is earned, but, your lack of Trust in them, might be up to you, not them. Either way, perspective can help you in this circumstance.
If you don't know what AWE questions are, please listen to "Coaches Corner" where I explain it in detail. 16 episodes of pure free coaching.
Step 3: Small Steps
BIG goals, like the ones you wrote above, are hard to accomplish. Much like eating an elephant; you do it one bite at a time.
Short-Term Goals:
Remember, the smaller the step, the more likely you are to complete each.
EG, step 1, ensure online sign in works. step 2, make sure you know exactly the correct next course you need to take. step 3, verify with your leader that this is the course you spoke about together. step 4, set a microdose plan of execution, daily (aka 10 minutes a day), step 5, do 1 daily execution. step 6, repeat step 5 until your first goal is complete. step 7. Write in your journal every day that you completed your microdose execution.
By the end of this exercise, you should have a clearer understanding of your motivations to do the hard work you do every day, and a tangible plan to align your daily work with your long-term goal.
If you need more help doing this exercise or want more leadership help, to build better, more concise goals, or to lead teams check this out:
Content Update, Recruiter Series; Finished!
We learned SO MUCH. Thank you to all of the recruiters who participated, giving their time, energy, experience, and stories to help technicians!
Wrench Turners Recruiter Series Episode Guests:
Check out the whole playlist!
Remember,
Negative pushes,
Positive pulls,
and always clean your toys before you put them away.
j.
I'm Joshua Taylor , and I develop Technicians into Leaders
Founder, Wrench Turners Online and The Sweaty Leader
Feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions. We love hearing from our community!
When you’re ready, here are some ways we can work together:
(To help your Tech Team be happier, healthier, and more productive)
Need to understand how it's set up, find a more "visual" services page HERE, and once you're ready to crush your team's goals, reach out by email to [email protected] or DM me here on LinkedIn.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on my personal experiences and insights as a mechanic and automotive industry professional. I am not a therapist, doctor, or highly educated analyst. The content of this article should not be taken as professional medical, psychological, or academic advice.
While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, I make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability concerning the article or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the article for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will I be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of income, data, or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this article.
Please consult with a qualified professional for specific advice tailored to your situation. My views and opinions are my own and do not represent the views of any entity with which I have been, am now, or will be affiliated.
Horologist.
4 个月I wish I saw this earlier. I retired not that i wanted to or could afford to. I am almost 60 i have spent my life in fleet repair. I now repair antique clocks.
Fixed Ops & Leadership Expert. Gratitude Mentee; Culture Curator. Mentor, Teacher, & Coach; Helping Dealers Sustain Profitability, Boost Client Retention & Celebrate the Customer Experience. A Trusted Advisor & Partner
4 个月Going back a reading in my journal reinforces the practice. You can see the change over time, yet day to day can seem quite similar. Write everyday, if only for a minute. The journal is my personal Time Machine.
Top Rated Dealership Sales Trainer and Recruiter In America / sales and service recruiting (including techs!) ?? Empower Your Dealership
4 个月Great stuff Joshua!!