http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 Most Recent Submissions from FairwayCommunications on AutoPro Workshop Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:46:54 GMT Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:46:54 GMT mwillins@advanstar.com (AutoBizGuru) mwillins@advanstar.com (AutoBizGuru) KickApps Feed Builder 2013-04-29T14:46:54Z 90 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/searchEverything.kickAction?as=31710&includeVideo=on&includeAudio=on&includePhoto=on&includeBlog=on&sortType=recent 0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Social-Media-Success-pt-2/blog/6522432/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications As I promised in part one of my article on social media success, here are some ideas for those with limited time and resources to make the most use of social media. Some of the material presented here was explored in a longer article for Springs magazine, published in the Summer 2011 issue. * Keep it simple. Decide where your customers communicate in social media and concentrate your efforts on just one channel. It could be LinkedIn or Facebook. B-to-B social media expert Paul Gillin advises, "Start with one (channel) and expand if you have success. But don't try to boil the ocean. Don't try to jump into six or seven networks at the same time." * Be consistent. Once you launch a social media effort, keep it going. Lisa Barone in her article, "The Seven Deadly Sins of Social Media," says one error is setting up social media tools and then stepping away. "It's a real investment and one that your company must take seriously in order to be successful." Designate a few hours a week toward your social media efforts. * Concentrate on content. "Social media is the Ferrari. Content is the fuel," analogizes Joe Chernov, vice president of content marketing for Eloqua. "If you are on Facebook and you create a great brand page and there's nothing there you've got a racecar with an empty gas tank."  Good content could be timely tips, industry trends, links to interesting articles or sites, or anything that your customers would find interesting. * Share expertise.  Gillin says in industrial markets, "there are knowledgeable buyers dealing with knowledgeable sellers. So the value is in demonstrating your knowledge through sharing advice that helps the customers make informed decisions, whether it is your product or someone else's. It shows you are the trusted source, because trust is very important." There are probably people on your team who have expertise that customers would like to hear. Don't keep them hidden! * Listen. Barone lists one of her seven deadly sins as, "Trying to sell users instead of listening." She candidly states, "Leave the sales pitches at the door. They don't belong in social media. That's not why you're there. You want to develop a presence in social in order to listen."  Gillin says social media provides a great platform for a company to conduct a listening campaign. Listening often begins with asking great questions of your social media followers. Social media is a legitimate way to engage with customers. Follow these guidelines to start and build accordingly as you experience success. Remember that social media is not an end unto itself. It is just one piece of a company's complete communications strategy. Good luck and let me know how it's going. To read my complete article in Springs, "Social Media in the Workplace," visit http://smihq.org/public/publications/past_articles/Springs_2011_Vol_50_No3.pdf By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications As I promised in part one of my article on social media success, here are some ideas for those with limited time and resources to make the most use of social media. Some of the material presented here was explored in a longer article for Springs magazine, published in the Summer 2011 issue. * Keep it simple. Decide where your customers communicate in social media and concentrate your efforts on just one channel. It could be LinkedIn or Facebook. B-to-B social media expert Paul Gillin advises, "Start with one (channel) and expand if you have success. But don't try to boil the ocean. Don't try to jump into six or seven networks at the same time." * Be consistent. Once you launch a social media effort, keep it going. Lisa Barone in her article, "The Seven Deadly Sins of Social Media," says one error is setting up social media tools and then stepping away. "It's a real investment and one that your company must take seriously in order to be successful." Designate a few hours a week toward your social media efforts. * Concentrate on content. "Social media is the Ferrari. Content is the fuel," analogizes Joe Chernov, vice president of content marketing for Eloqua. "If you are on Facebook and you create a great brand page and there's nothing there you've got a racecar with an empty gas tank."  Good content could be timely tips, industry trends, links to interesting articles or sites, or anything that your customers would find interesting. * Share expertise.  Gillin says in industrial markets, "there are knowledgeable buyers dealing with knowledgeable sellers. So the value is in demonstrating your knowledge through sharing advice that helps the customers make informed decisions, whether it is your product or someone else's. It shows you are the trusted source, because trust is very important." There are probably people on your team who have expertise that customers would like to hear. Don't keep them hidden! * Listen. Barone lists one of her seven deadly sins as, "Trying to sell users instead of listening." She candidly states, "Leave the sales pitches at the door. They don't belong in social media. That's not why you're there. You want to develop a presence in social in order to listen."  Gillin says social media provides a great platform for a company to conduct a listening campaign. Listening often begins with asking great questions of your social media followers. Social media is a legitimate way to engage with customers. Follow these guidelines to start and build accordingly as you experience success. Remember that social media is not an end unto itself. It is just one piece of a company's complete communications strategy. Good luck and let me know how it's going. To read my complete article in Springs, "Social Media in the Workplace," visit http://smihq.org/public/publications/past_articles/Springs_2011_Vol_50_No3.pdf Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:46:54 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Social-Media-Success-pt-2/blog/6522432/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2013-04-29T14:46:54Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications As I promised in part one of my article on social media success, here are some ideas for those with limited time and resources to make the most use of social media. Some of the material presented here was explored in a longer article for Springs magazine, published in the Summer 2011 issue. * Keep it simple. Decide where your customers communicate in social media and concentrate your efforts on just one channel. It could be LinkedIn or Facebook. B-to-B social media expert Paul Gillin advises, "Start with one (channel) and expand if you have success. But don't try to boil the ocean. Don't try to jump into six or seven networks at the same time." * Be consistent. Once you launch a social media effort, keep it going. Lisa Barone in her article, "The Seven Deadly Sins of Social Media," says one error is setting up social media tools and then stepping away. "It's a real investment and one that your company must take seriously in order to be successful." Designate a few hours a week toward your social media efforts. * Concentrate on content. "Social media is the Ferrari. Content is the fuel," analogizes Joe Chernov, vice president of content marketing for Eloqua. "If you are on Facebook and you create a great brand page and there's nothing there you've got a racecar with an empty gas tank."  Good content could be timely tips, industry trends, links to interesting articles or sites, or anything that your customers would find interesting. * Share expertise.  Gillin says in industrial markets, "there are knowledgeable buyers dealing with knowledgeable sellers. So the value is in demonstrating your knowledge through sharing advice that helps the customers make informed decisions, whether it is your product or someone else's. It shows you are the trusted source, because trust is very important." There are probably people on your team who have expertise that customers would like to hear. Don't keep them hidden! * Listen. Barone lists one of her seven deadly sins as, "Trying to sell users instead of listening." She candidly states, "Leave the sales pitches at the door. They don't belong in social media. That's not why you're there. You want to develop a presence in social in order to listen."  Gillin says social media provides a great platform for a company to conduct a listening campaign. Listening often begins with asking great questions of your social media followers. Social media is a legitimate way to engage with customers. Follow these guidelines to start and build accordingly as you experience success. Remember that social media is not an end unto itself. It is just one piece of a company's complete communications strategy. Good luck and let me know how it's going. To read my complete article in Springs, "Social Media in the Workplace," visit http://smihq.org/public/publications/past_articles/Springs_2011_Vol_50_No3.pdf ambw, content, media, social, success nonadult false Social Media Success - pt. 2 text blog ambw,content,media,social,success 169 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 6522432 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_GAAS-2013-Repair-Shop-Owner-Panelists/video/1829086/31710.html GAAS 2013 will be held May 21-22 at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare near Chicago. You want to miss this great networking event and the many speakers and panelists scheduled. Complete registration information is available at www.globalsymposium.org. One of the featured panel presentations is "What Shops Really Need." In this video segment, the three panelists who are scheduled to appear, Bob Shanahan, John Vallely and Dave Walter talk about what they expect from suppliers. GAAS 2013 will be held May 21-22 at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare near Chicago. You want to miss this great networking event and the many speakers and panelists scheduled. Complete registration information is available at www.globalsymposium.org. One of the featured panel presentations is "What Shops Really Need." In this video segment, the three panelists who are scheduled to appear, Bob Shanahan, John Vallely and Dave Walter talk about what they expect from suppliers. Tue, 16 Apr 2013 20:01:37 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_GAAS-2013-Repair-Shop-Owner-Panelists/video/1829086/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2013-04-16T20:01:37Z Motor Age Videos AutoPro Workshop GAAS 2013 will be held May 21-22 at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare near Chicago. You want to miss this great networking event and the many speakers and panelists scheduled. Complete registration information is available at www.globalsymposium.org. One of the featured panel presentations is "What Shops Really Need." In this video segment, the three panelists who are scheduled to appear, Bob Shanahan, John Vallely and Dave Walter talk about what they expect from suppliers. gaas, hyatt, motor age, o'hare, regency, repair, shops, technicians, videos nonadult false GAAS 2013 Repair Shop Owner Panelists video gaas,hyatt,motor age,o'hare,regency,repair,shops,technicians,videos 48 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age / Videos 0 1829086 4244332 Member 250 107 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Social-Media-Success-pt-1/blog/6514980/31710.html by Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications How do you communicate with your customers? Most likely you use many traditional methods such as phone calls, face-to-face visits, trade shows, advertising, PR, email, etc.Many of those methods are still quite effective. However, I see a lot of companies who want to jump on the social media bandwagon who feel like they've "missed the boat" because they are not on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.  Many are launching social media "boats" without any purpose or strategy in mind.When asked by business professionals about social media, the advice I constantly give comes from an interview I conducted with B-to-B social media expert Paul Gillin in 2011. Gillin simply says you must answer this question before designing your social media strategy: "What do your customers want and how do they communicate?"As Gillin points out: "It could be that they don't communicate in any of these channels (social media) and if that's the case, don't use them."It looks like some companies are taking Gillin's advice to heart, because Twitter is one social media channel that many businesses are not using. While six out of 10 small business owners say they believe social-media tools are valuable to their company's growth--most aren't impressed by Twitter according to a survey by The Wall Street Journal and Vistage International. The results, issued last month, show that just three percent of 835 business owners said Twitter had the most potential to help their companies. Professional-networking service LinkedIn topped the survey, with 41 percent of respondents citing it as potentially beneficial to their company. Sixteen percent picked YouTube, while 14 percent chose Facebook. These results are in line with survey results published by the Spring Manufacturers Institute when I wrote an article on social media for business for their magazine, Springs, a little less than two years ago.The Wall Street Journal and Vistage International survey went on to discover that owners of small firms have limited time and money to figure out the most useful ways to tap into social media. In the survey, just four in 10 business owners said they have time employees dedicated to social-media campaigns. Nearly half of them spend between one and five hours weekly on social media, and one-third spend not time at all.In my next post, I will discuss some ideas for those with limited time and resources to make the most use of social media. by Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications How do you communicate with your customers? Most likely you use many traditional methods such as phone calls, face-to-face visits, trade shows, advertising, PR, email, etc.Many of those methods are still quite effective. However, I see a lot of companies who want to jump on the social media bandwagon who feel like they've "missed the boat" because they are not on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.  Many are launching social media "boats" without any purpose or strategy in mind.When asked by business professionals about social media, the advice I constantly give comes from an interview I conducted with B-to-B social media expert Paul Gillin in 2011. Gillin simply says you must answer this question before designing your social media strategy: "What do your customers want and how do they communicate?"As Gillin points out: "It could be that they don't communicate in any of these channels (social media) and if that's the case, don't use them."It looks like some companies are taking Gillin's advice to heart, because Twitter is one social media channel that many businesses are not using. While six out of 10 small business owners say they believe social-media tools are valuable to their company's growth--most aren't impressed by Twitter according to a survey by The Wall Street Journal and Vistage International. The results, issued last month, show that just three percent of 835 business owners said Twitter had the most potential to help their companies. Professional-networking service LinkedIn topped the survey, with 41 percent of respondents citing it as potentially beneficial to their company. Sixteen percent picked YouTube, while 14 percent chose Facebook. These results are in line with survey results published by the Spring Manufacturers Institute when I wrote an article on social media for business for their magazine, Springs, a little less than two years ago.The Wall Street Journal and Vistage International survey went on to discover that owners of small firms have limited time and money to figure out the most useful ways to tap into social media. In the survey, just four in 10 business owners said they have time employees dedicated to social-media campaigns. Nearly half of them spend between one and five hours weekly on social media, and one-third spend not time at all.In my next post, I will discuss some ideas for those with limited time and resources to make the most use of social media. Tue, 05 Mar 2013 17:26:44 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Social-Media-Success-pt-1/blog/6514980/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2013-03-05T17:26:44Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop by Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications How do you communicate with your customers? Most likely you use many traditional methods such as phone calls, face-to-face visits, trade shows, advertising, PR, email, etc.Many of those methods are still quite effective. However, I see a lot of companies who want to jump on the social media bandwagon who feel like they've "missed the boat" because they are not on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.  Many are launching social media "boats" without any purpose or strategy in mind.When asked by business professionals about social media, the advice I constantly give comes from an interview I conducted with B-to-B social media expert Paul Gillin in 2011. Gillin simply says you must answer this question before designing your social media strategy: "What do your customers want and how do they communicate?"As Gillin points out: "It could be that they don't communicate in any of these channels (social media) and if that's the case, don't use them."It looks like some companies are taking Gillin's advice to heart, because Twitter is one social media channel that many businesses are not using. While six out of 10 small business owners say they believe social-media tools are valuable to their company's growth--most aren't impressed by Twitter according to a survey by The Wall Street Journal and Vistage International. The results, issued last month, show that just three percent of 835 business owners said Twitter had the most potential to help their companies. Professional-networking service LinkedIn topped the survey, with 41 percent of respondents citing it as potentially beneficial to their company. Sixteen percent picked YouTube, while 14 percent chose Facebook. These results are in line with survey results published by the Spring Manufacturers Institute when I wrote an article on social media for business for their magazine, Springs, a little less than two years ago.The Wall Street Journal and Vistage International survey went on to discover that owners of small firms have limited time and money to figure out the most useful ways to tap into social media. In the survey, just four in 10 business owners said they have time employees dedicated to social-media campaigns. Nearly half of them spend between one and five hours weekly on social media, and one-third spend not time at all.In my next post, I will discuss some ideas for those with limited time and resources to make the most use of social media. ambw, communications, customers, gillin, media, paul, social nonadult false Social Media Success - pt. 1 text blog ambw,communications,customers,gillin,media,paul,social 290 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 6514980 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_The-Uncertainty-Peril/blog/6501790/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications Bill Strauss is well known to many in the automotive aftermarket for his economic insights and analysis. Strauss, senior economist and economic advisor for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, was in Las Vegas this week to address Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) ’13 and provide his economic outlook for 2013.  Strauss said growth in 2013 will likely be just above trend growth at 2.8 percent. He calls it improving growth, but nothing to “write home about.” He said the forecast for 2014 and 2015 sees growth at just a little over three percent.  Uncertainty out of Washington with the fiscal cliff negotiations has had an effect on the economy explained Strauss, especially during the last quarter of 2012, which has resulted in poor economic progress.   By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications Bill Strauss is well known to many in the automotive aftermarket for his economic insights and analysis. Strauss, senior economist and economic advisor for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, was in Las Vegas this week to address Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) ’13 and provide his economic outlook for 2013.  Strauss said growth in 2013 will likely be just above trend growth at 2.8 percent. He calls it improving growth, but nothing to “write home about.” He said the forecast for 2014 and 2015 sees growth at just a little over three percent.  Uncertainty out of Washington with the fiscal cliff negotiations has had an effect on the economy explained Strauss, especially during the last quarter of 2012, which has resulted in poor economic progress.   Thu, 24 Jan 2013 08:29:48 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_The-Uncertainty-Peril/blog/6501790/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2013-01-24T08:29:48Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications Bill Strauss is well known to many in the automotive aftermarket for his economic insights and analysis. Strauss, senior economist and economic advisor for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, was in Las Vegas this week to address Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) ’13 and provide his economic outlook for 2013.  Strauss said growth in 2013 will likely be just above trend growth at 2.8 percent. He calls it improving growth, but nothing to “write home about.” He said the forecast for 2014 and 2015 sees growth at just a little over three percent.  Uncertainty out of Washington with the fiscal cliff negotiations has had an effect on the economy explained Strauss, especially during the last quarter of 2012, which has resulted in poor economic progress.   ambw, bank, chicago, cliff, economy, federal, fiscal, of, reserve, strauss, william nonadult false The Uncertainty Peril video blog ambw,bank,chicago,cliff,economy,federal,fiscal,of,reserve,strauss,william 350 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 6501790 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Aging-Vehicles-DIY-Opportunity/blog/6477297/31710.html By Gary McCoyNPD’s David Portalatin says an aging vehicle population provides more opportunities to sell parts to do-it-yourself (DIY) customers. Portalatin shared this analysis and other insights when he unveiled the NPD Group’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook during an educational seminar at the 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. By Gary McCoyNPD’s David Portalatin says an aging vehicle population provides more opportunities to sell parts to do-it-yourself (DIY) customers. Portalatin shared this analysis and other insights when he unveiled the NPD Group’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook during an educational seminar at the 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. Mon, 26 Nov 2012 01:29:43 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Aging-Vehicles-DIY-Opportunity/blog/6477297/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-11-26T01:29:43Z AMBW Blogs AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoyNPD’s David Portalatin says an aging vehicle population provides more opportunities to sell parts to do-it-yourself (DIY) customers. Portalatin shared this analysis and other insights when he unveiled the NPD Group’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook during an educational seminar at the 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. 2013, aftermarket, ambw, automotive, blogs, david, forecast, group, npd, portalatin nonadult false Aging Vehicles, DIY Opportunity video blog 2013,aftermarket,ambw,automotive,blogs,david,forecast,group,npd,portalatin 599 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW / Blogs 0 6477297 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_A-New-Sweet-Spot/blog/6463535/31710.html By Gary McCoy The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division recently presented their seventh annual Aftermarket Outlook at AAPEX 2012 in Las Vegas.  While growing car sales are of concern to the aftermarket, increased consumer confidence should have a positive effect on the industry. I caught up with NPD’s industry analyst, David Portalatin, after his presentation to talk about the rise in the average age of a used vehicle that is now almost 11 years.  The so-called “sweet spot” for the aftermarket used to be vehicles in the age range of 4 to 7 years old that were coming off of new car warranties and prime candidates for vehicle repair services. Portalatin says he doesn’t believe in that conventional sweet spot anymore. By Gary McCoy The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division recently presented their seventh annual Aftermarket Outlook at AAPEX 2012 in Las Vegas.  While growing car sales are of concern to the aftermarket, increased consumer confidence should have a positive effect on the industry. I caught up with NPD’s industry analyst, David Portalatin, after his presentation to talk about the rise in the average age of a used vehicle that is now almost 11 years.  The so-called “sweet spot” for the aftermarket used to be vehicles in the age range of 4 to 7 years old that were coming off of new car warranties and prime candidates for vehicle repair services. Portalatin says he doesn’t believe in that conventional sweet spot anymore. Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:53:57 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_A-New-Sweet-Spot/blog/6463535/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-11-14T00:53:57Z Motor Age Blogs AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division recently presented their seventh annual Aftermarket Outlook at AAPEX 2012 in Las Vegas.  While growing car sales are of concern to the aftermarket, increased consumer confidence should have a positive effect on the industry. I caught up with NPD’s industry analyst, David Portalatin, after his presentation to talk about the rise in the average age of a used vehicle that is now almost 11 years.  The so-called “sweet spot” for the aftermarket used to be vehicles in the age range of 4 to 7 years old that were coming off of new car warranties and prime candidates for vehicle repair services. Portalatin says he doesn’t believe in that conventional sweet spot anymore. aapex, aftermarket, blogs, david, motor age, npd, outlook, portalatin, repair, spot, sweet nonadult false A New Sweet Spot? video blog aapex,aftermarket,blogs,david,motor age,npd,outlook,portalatin,repair,spot,sweet 2265 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age / Blogs 0 6463535 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Growing-New-Car-Sales/blog/6448535/31710.html By Gary McCoyNew car sales are forecasted to edge up slightly next year according to NPD Group’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook.  This is primarily due to a modest increase in consumer confidence.David Portalatin, industry analyst for The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division, revealed the results of the company’s outlook during an educational seminar at the 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. He said new car sales are expected to be similar to 2012 levels, while used car sales may decline.  There was a note of caution in the report, because Portalatin explained that 37 percent of respondents said they would abandon plans to purchase a new vehicle if economic conditions worsened. Portalatin says the overall the message from NPD’s Outlook is good news for repair shops. By Gary McCoyNew car sales are forecasted to edge up slightly next year according to NPD Group’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook.  This is primarily due to a modest increase in consumer confidence.David Portalatin, industry analyst for The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division, revealed the results of the company’s outlook during an educational seminar at the 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. He said new car sales are expected to be similar to 2012 levels, while used car sales may decline.  There was a note of caution in the report, because Portalatin explained that 37 percent of respondents said they would abandon plans to purchase a new vehicle if economic conditions worsened. Portalatin says the overall the message from NPD’s Outlook is good news for repair shops. Tue, 06 Nov 2012 09:26:26 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Growing-New-Car-Sales/blog/6448535/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-11-06T09:26:26Z Motor Age Blogs AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoyNew car sales are forecasted to edge up slightly next year according to NPD Group’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook.  This is primarily due to a modest increase in consumer confidence.David Portalatin, industry analyst for The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division, revealed the results of the company’s outlook during an educational seminar at the 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. He said new car sales are expected to be similar to 2012 levels, while used car sales may decline.  There was a note of caution in the report, because Portalatin explained that 37 percent of respondents said they would abandon plans to purchase a new vehicle if economic conditions worsened. Portalatin says the overall the message from NPD’s Outlook is good news for repair shops. 2013, auto, blogs, car, david, motor age, new, npd, outlook, portalatin, repair, sales nonadult false Growing New Car Sales video blog 2013,auto,blogs,car,david,motor age,new,npd,outlook,portalatin,repair,sales 494 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age / Blogs 0 6448535 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_2013-Aftermarket-Outlook/blog/6443317/31710.html By Gary McCoy The 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) got underway on Tuesday, October 31 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. One of the highlights was a seminar presentation by David Portalatin, the industry analyst for The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division.  For the seventh year in a row at AAPEX, Portalatin presented NPD’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook. In his presentation, Portalatin drew from six years of trends providing a look into the consumer attitudes and behaviors that will shape their aftermarket spending in the coming year.  The message Portalatin delivered to the aftermarket was good news that the overall consumer outlook is on the rise. By Gary McCoy The 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) got underway on Tuesday, October 31 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. One of the highlights was a seminar presentation by David Portalatin, the industry analyst for The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division.  For the seventh year in a row at AAPEX, Portalatin presented NPD’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook. In his presentation, Portalatin drew from six years of trends providing a look into the consumer attitudes and behaviors that will shape their aftermarket spending in the coming year.  The message Portalatin delivered to the aftermarket was good news that the overall consumer outlook is on the rise. Sat, 03 Nov 2012 03:06:47 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_2013-Aftermarket-Outlook/blog/6443317/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-11-03T03:06:47Z AMBW Blogs AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy The 2012 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) got underway on Tuesday, October 31 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. One of the highlights was a seminar presentation by David Portalatin, the industry analyst for The NPD Group’s automotive aftermarket division.  For the seventh year in a row at AAPEX, Portalatin presented NPD’s 2013 Aftermarket Outlook. In his presentation, Portalatin drew from six years of trends providing a look into the consumer attitudes and behaviors that will shape their aftermarket spending in the coming year.  The message Portalatin delivered to the aftermarket was good news that the overall consumer outlook is on the rise. 2013, aftermarket, ambw, automotive, blogs, david, forecast, group, npd, portalatin nonadult false 2013 Aftermarket Outlook video blog 2013,aftermarket,ambw,automotive,blogs,david,forecast,group,npd,portalatin 1256 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW / Blogs 0 6443317 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Parts-Proliferation/blog/6399421/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications There are many different things that challenge automotive shop owners: car counts, hiring and recruiting trained technicians, and keeping customers happy. Parts proliferation is one thing in particular that challenges Pat Weber, the owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois. By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications There are many different things that challenge automotive shop owners: car counts, hiring and recruiting trained technicians, and keeping customers happy. Parts proliferation is one thing in particular that challenges Pat Weber, the owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois. Mon, 15 Oct 2012 06:17:27 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Parts-Proliferation/blog/6399421/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-10-15T06:17:27Z Motor Age AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications There are many different things that challenge automotive shop owners: car counts, hiring and recruiting trained technicians, and keeping customers happy. Parts proliferation is one thing in particular that challenges Pat Weber, the owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois. automotive, autrepair, motor age, parts, pat, proliferation, service, shops, weber nonadult false Parts Proliferation video blog automotive,autrepair,motor age,parts,pat,proliferation,service,shops,weber 1993 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 1 Motor Age 0 6399421 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Monitoring-Parts-Availability/blog/6390225/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsHaving access to the parts needed to fix a vehicle is crucial for an automotive repair shop to finish the job in a timely fashion. Pat Weber, owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois, says the availability of parts is crucial to his shop’s success. He said in today’s environment it’s virtually impossible to rely on one vendor to fulfill all the needs a shop has. Since Weber carries a larger amount of inventory onsite at his shop, admittedly more than the average shop, he watches the availability of parts very closely. By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsHaving access to the parts needed to fix a vehicle is crucial for an automotive repair shop to finish the job in a timely fashion. Pat Weber, owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois, says the availability of parts is crucial to his shop’s success. He said in today’s environment it’s virtually impossible to rely on one vendor to fulfill all the needs a shop has. Since Weber carries a larger amount of inventory onsite at his shop, admittedly more than the average shop, he watches the availability of parts very closely. Wed, 10 Oct 2012 02:14:21 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Monitoring-Parts-Availability/blog/6390225/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-10-10T02:14:21Z Motor Age AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsHaving access to the parts needed to fix a vehicle is crucial for an automotive repair shop to finish the job in a timely fashion. Pat Weber, owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois, says the availability of parts is crucial to his shop’s success. He said in today’s environment it’s virtually impossible to rely on one vendor to fulfill all the needs a shop has. Since Weber carries a larger amount of inventory onsite at his shop, admittedly more than the average shop, he watches the availability of parts very closely. automotive, availability, motor age, parts, pat, repair, service, shops, weber nonadult false Monitoring Parts Availability video blog automotive,availability,motor age,parts,pat,repair,service,shops,weber 887 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 1 Motor Age 0 6390225 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_OE-Parts-Challenge/blog/6376519/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsPat Weber is the owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois. In my last blog post with Weber he talked about the challenge of having good catalog information, most notably pictures, to identify the aftermarket parts needed to repair vehicles. He says many times aftermarket suppliers do not have sufficient images so his technicians can verify that they've ordered the right part.Weber says when he needs to order an original equipment (OE) part to complete a vehicle repair job, he has a slightly different challenge that can sometimes slow down the process of fixing a vehicle. By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsPat Weber is the owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois. In my last blog post with Weber he talked about the challenge of having good catalog information, most notably pictures, to identify the aftermarket parts needed to repair vehicles. He says many times aftermarket suppliers do not have sufficient images so his technicians can verify that they've ordered the right part.Weber says when he needs to order an original equipment (OE) part to complete a vehicle repair job, he has a slightly different challenge that can sometimes slow down the process of fixing a vehicle. Sat, 29 Sep 2012 19:12:58 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_OE-Parts-Challenge/blog/6376519/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-09-29T19:12:58Z Motor Age AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsPat Weber is the owner and CEO of Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois. In my last blog post with Weber he talked about the challenge of having good catalog information, most notably pictures, to identify the aftermarket parts needed to repair vehicles. He says many times aftermarket suppliers do not have sufficient images so his technicians can verify that they've ordered the right part.Weber says when he needs to order an original equipment (OE) part to complete a vehicle repair job, he has a slightly different challenge that can sometimes slow down the process of fixing a vehicle. motor age nonadult false OE Parts Challenge video blog motor age 674 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 1 Motor Age 0 6376519 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Parts-Verification-Challenge/blog/6368955/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsI caught up with Pat Weber, Owner and CEO, Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois earlier this year at the annual AutoWares Tech Expo. Weber who appeared at the 2012 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium is not one to be shy about his opinions. He’s a successful shop owner who fights for his customers and employees in order to get the job done right the first time.He said one of the challenges he faces on a daily basis, as a shop owner, is proper cataloging. He says more pictures are needed by aftermarket parts manufacturers. Weber says he and his employees spend a lot of time trying to verify that they have the right part to fix the car they are repairing. He shares one of the secrets he’s taught his technicians. By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsI caught up with Pat Weber, Owner and CEO, Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois earlier this year at the annual AutoWares Tech Expo. Weber who appeared at the 2012 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium is not one to be shy about his opinions. He’s a successful shop owner who fights for his customers and employees in order to get the job done right the first time.He said one of the challenges he faces on a daily basis, as a shop owner, is proper cataloging. He says more pictures are needed by aftermarket parts manufacturers. Weber says he and his employees spend a lot of time trying to verify that they have the right part to fix the car they are repairing. He shares one of the secrets he’s taught his technicians. Wed, 26 Sep 2012 15:28:24 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Parts-Verification-Challenge/blog/6368955/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-09-26T15:28:24Z Motor Age AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsI caught up with Pat Weber, Owner and CEO, Weber Automotive Service, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois earlier this year at the annual AutoWares Tech Expo. Weber who appeared at the 2012 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium is not one to be shy about his opinions. He’s a successful shop owner who fights for his customers and employees in order to get the job done right the first time.He said one of the challenges he faces on a daily basis, as a shop owner, is proper cataloging. He says more pictures are needed by aftermarket parts manufacturers. Weber says he and his employees spend a lot of time trying to verify that they have the right part to fix the car they are repairing. He shares one of the secrets he’s taught his technicians. motor age nonadult false Parts Verification Challenge video blog motor age 727 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age 0 6368955 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Green-Marketing-Ideas-pt-3/blog/6337115/31710.html   by Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsIn the final part of my blog on green marketing I present some ideas from ASA-IL on what an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility looks like, and some advice on why embracing a "one-size fits all" approach to green marketing can be dangerous. ASA-Il has put together a help list that details the products associated with servicing a vehicle, and steps that should be taken by facilities to reduce environmental hazards. http://www.asaillinois.org/green-shops.php •   Antifreeze - Stored by facility in special containers and then taken to a commercial disposal plant or have recycled onsite (paid for by facility).•   Used Oil & Other Fluids - Stored by facility in special containers then disposed of by a licensed hauler, or burned in an approved waste-oil heater.•   Oil Filters - Filters are drained, drilled, or crushed. The oil is processed the same as above, and the metal parts of the filter are taken to a recycling plant.•   Batteries - Return old batteries to reclaimer and/or manufacturer by a certified carrier.•   Used Tires - Stored in an orderly fashion at facility, then taken by a licensed hauler to a storage location or a recycling center. •   Refrigerants - Purchasing necessary equipment, and being certified to capture and recycle refrigerants and other gases while servicing air conditioners. •   Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's) - Purchasing necessary equipment, and being certified to capture and recycle refrigerants and other gases while servicing air conditioners. This is a great list of green practices and I'm sure many have already implemented these practices into their shop operations. Why not take it one step further and publicize this to your customers? Perhaps you could print a one-page flyer that details your shop's environmental practices and how you are a good neighbor to the environment. Or you could print these environmental practices as a sign and hang it in a prominent location in your shop. You could use a headline such as: "Why We Are a Green Shop." Here are some other questions that ASA-IL asks you to consider: Does your facility use environmentally preferable products and services? Does your facility practice general pollution prevention?  Does your facility strive to educate its employees in environmentally safe practices?Green is Not Magic As I conclude this three part series, here's one final cautionary comment: "There is no one-size-fits-all approach to green marketing." Make sure yours is unique and specific because your target audience will ask: “What’s in it for me, today?” In his book, "The Truth about Green Business," Gil Friend says, "Going for the green—and even getting there—doesn't guarantee business success. You still need great products and services, impeccable execution, and stellar customer communications—all the elements of which a great business depends." To help you go green, The Marx Group invites you to download a green marketing worksheet at: http://www.themarxgrp.com/GreenMarketingHandout.pdf.   by Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsIn the final part of my blog on green marketing I present some ideas from ASA-IL on what an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility looks like, and some advice on why embracing a "one-size fits all" approach to green marketing can be dangerous. ASA-Il has put together a help list that details the products associated with servicing a vehicle, and steps that should be taken by facilities to reduce environmental hazards. http://www.asaillinois.org/green-shops.php •   Antifreeze - Stored by facility in special containers and then taken to a commercial disposal plant or have recycled onsite (paid for by facility).•   Used Oil & Other Fluids - Stored by facility in special containers then disposed of by a licensed hauler, or burned in an approved waste-oil heater.•   Oil Filters - Filters are drained, drilled, or crushed. The oil is processed the same as above, and the metal parts of the filter are taken to a recycling plant.•   Batteries - Return old batteries to reclaimer and/or manufacturer by a certified carrier.•   Used Tires - Stored in an orderly fashion at facility, then taken by a licensed hauler to a storage location or a recycling center. •   Refrigerants - Purchasing necessary equipment, and being certified to capture and recycle refrigerants and other gases while servicing air conditioners. •   Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's) - Purchasing necessary equipment, and being certified to capture and recycle refrigerants and other gases while servicing air conditioners. This is a great list of green practices and I'm sure many have already implemented these practices into their shop operations. Why not take it one step further and publicize this to your customers? Perhaps you could print a one-page flyer that details your shop's environmental practices and how you are a good neighbor to the environment. Or you could print these environmental practices as a sign and hang it in a prominent location in your shop. You could use a headline such as: "Why We Are a Green Shop." Here are some other questions that ASA-IL asks you to consider: Does your facility use environmentally preferable products and services? Does your facility practice general pollution prevention?  Does your facility strive to educate its employees in environmentally safe practices?Green is Not Magic As I conclude this three part series, here's one final cautionary comment: "There is no one-size-fits-all approach to green marketing." Make sure yours is unique and specific because your target audience will ask: “What’s in it for me, today?” In his book, "The Truth about Green Business," Gil Friend says, "Going for the green—and even getting there—doesn't guarantee business success. You still need great products and services, impeccable execution, and stellar customer communications—all the elements of which a great business depends." To help you go green, The Marx Group invites you to download a green marketing worksheet at: http://www.themarxgrp.com/GreenMarketingHandout.pdf. Wed, 12 Sep 2012 16:08:36 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Green-Marketing-Ideas-pt-3/blog/6337115/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-09-12T16:08:36Z Motor Age AutoPro Workshop   by Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsIn the final part of my blog on green marketing I present some ideas from ASA-IL on what an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility looks like, and some advice on why embracing a "one-size fits all" approach to green marketing can be dangerous. ASA-Il has put together a help list that details the products associated with servicing a vehicle, and steps that should be taken by facilities to reduce environmental hazards. http://www.asaillinois.org/green-shops.php •   Antifreeze - Stored by facility in special containers and then taken to a commercial disposal plant or have recycled onsite (paid for by facility).•   Used Oil & Other Fluids - Stored by facility in special containers then disposed of by a licensed hauler, or burned in an approved waste-oil heater.•   Oil Filters - Filters are drained, drilled, or crushed. The oil is processed the same as above, and the metal parts of the filter are taken to a recycling plant.•   Batteries - Return old batteries to reclaimer and/or manufacturer by a certified carrier.•   Used Tires - Stored in an orderly fashion at facility, then taken by a licensed hauler to a storage location or a recycling center. •   Refrigerants - Purchasing necessary equipment, and being certified to capture and recycle refrigerants and other gases while servicing air conditioners. •   Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's) - Purchasing necessary equipment, and being certified to capture and recycle refrigerants and other gases while servicing air conditioners. This is a great list of green practices and I'm sure many have already implemented these practices into their shop operations. Why not take it one step further and publicize this to your customers? Perhaps you could print a one-page flyer that details your shop's environmental practices and how you are a good neighbor to the environment. Or you could print these environmental practices as a sign and hang it in a prominent location in your shop. You could use a headline such as: "Why We Are a Green Shop." Here are some other questions that ASA-IL asks you to consider: Does your facility use environmentally preferable products and services? Does your facility practice general pollution prevention?  Does your facility strive to educate its employees in environmentally safe practices?Green is Not Magic As I conclude this three part series, here's one final cautionary comment: "There is no one-size-fits-all approach to green marketing." Make sure yours is unique and specific because your target audience will ask: “What’s in it for me, today?” In his book, "The Truth about Green Business," Gil Friend says, "Going for the green—and even getting there—doesn't guarantee business success. You still need great products and services, impeccable execution, and stellar customer communications—all the elements of which a great business depends." To help you go green, The Marx Group invites you to download a green marketing worksheet at: http://www.themarxgrp.com/GreenMarketingHandout.pdf. motor age nonadult false Green Marketing Ideas - pt. 3 text blog motor age 539 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age 0 6337115 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Green-Marketing-Ideas-pt-2/blog/6327635/31710.html by Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications In part two of my blog on green marketing here are some ideas that worked for a client of The Marx Group.  A&A Midwest is a multi-faceted company that began in 1949 in Chicago. Through their cores division they have been supplying remanufacturers with engines, transmissions and internal engine parts for over 60 years. More recently, through their location in the Las Vegas area they have been involved in recycling metal (ferrous and non-ferrous) and most recently they have transitioned to become a full-service recycler handling plastic, cardboard, and electronics. To help convey A&A Midwest's green message, The Marx Group has assisted the company with marketing and public relations. A key component of this effort has been in the area of community outreach. For three years, A&A Midwest served as the recycling center for Clark County residents who wanted to exchange their polluting gas lawn mower for a new zero-emission, cordless electric model at a greatly reduced price. The program was extremely successful with over 3,000 mowers turned in for recycling. News releases touting A&A Midwest's involvement in the program were published, helping spotlight the company as a green corporate citizen within the Las Vegas area. The company's president and CEO, Scott Stolberg, has made numerous presentations in the community about the benefits of recycling. As a result of these activities, the company has received favorable TV, print and online coverage by Las Vegas area media. In addition, A&A Midwest has developed several helpful informational flyers educating consumers on metal recycling, metal theft and the benefits of remanufacturing. To download and view these publications, visit http://www.aamidwest.com/recycling/new-guide-to-recycling-scrap-metal/ There are several important points to remember from A&A Midwest's story: 1.    Make yourself available to the media for green stories. As an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility you have the expertise to speak authoritatively on green practices. Often the media do not know who to contact for help with a story. 2.    Publicize your green, sustainable practices. There are most likely things you are doing that the media are not aware of. So take the time to tell your story in a news release, customer newsletter and on your website. 3.    Tell about your educational efforts. Develop educational materials that fit your business and make them available in person when you are out to visit customers or prospects. They should also be available for download on your website. 4.    Avoid "greenwashing." Greenwashing is the dangerous practice of saying you are a green company, but not really practicing what you preach. It is a form of spin in which green PR or green marketing is deceptively used to promote the perception that an organization's aims and policies are environmentally friendly. Whether it is to increase profits or gain political support, greenwashing may be used to manipulate popular opinion to support otherwise questionable aims. It is a hypocrisy that business customers and consumers will immediately recognize. Next time in the final part of my blog on green marketing, I'll take a look at some ideas from ASA-IL on what an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility looks like. by Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications In part two of my blog on green marketing here are some ideas that worked for a client of The Marx Group.  A&A Midwest is a multi-faceted company that began in 1949 in Chicago. Through their cores division they have been supplying remanufacturers with engines, transmissions and internal engine parts for over 60 years. More recently, through their location in the Las Vegas area they have been involved in recycling metal (ferrous and non-ferrous) and most recently they have transitioned to become a full-service recycler handling plastic, cardboard, and electronics. To help convey A&A Midwest's green message, The Marx Group has assisted the company with marketing and public relations. A key component of this effort has been in the area of community outreach. For three years, A&A Midwest served as the recycling center for Clark County residents who wanted to exchange their polluting gas lawn mower for a new zero-emission, cordless electric model at a greatly reduced price. The program was extremely successful with over 3,000 mowers turned in for recycling. News releases touting A&A Midwest's involvement in the program were published, helping spotlight the company as a green corporate citizen within the Las Vegas area. The company's president and CEO, Scott Stolberg, has made numerous presentations in the community about the benefits of recycling. As a result of these activities, the company has received favorable TV, print and online coverage by Las Vegas area media. In addition, A&A Midwest has developed several helpful informational flyers educating consumers on metal recycling, metal theft and the benefits of remanufacturing. To download and view these publications, visit http://www.aamidwest.com/recycling/new-guide-to-recycling-scrap-metal/ There are several important points to remember from A&A Midwest's story: 1.    Make yourself available to the media for green stories. As an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility you have the expertise to speak authoritatively on green practices. Often the media do not know who to contact for help with a story. 2.    Publicize your green, sustainable practices. There are most likely things you are doing that the media are not aware of. So take the time to tell your story in a news release, customer newsletter and on your website. 3.    Tell about your educational efforts. Develop educational materials that fit your business and make them available in person when you are out to visit customers or prospects. They should also be available for download on your website. 4.    Avoid "greenwashing." Greenwashing is the dangerous practice of saying you are a green company, but not really practicing what you preach. It is a form of spin in which green PR or green marketing is deceptively used to promote the perception that an organization's aims and policies are environmentally friendly. Whether it is to increase profits or gain political support, greenwashing may be used to manipulate popular opinion to support otherwise questionable aims. It is a hypocrisy that business customers and consumers will immediately recognize. Next time in the final part of my blog on green marketing, I'll take a look at some ideas from ASA-IL on what an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility looks like. Fri, 07 Sep 2012 21:50:27 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Green-Marketing-Ideas-pt-2/blog/6327635/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-09-07T21:50:27Z AutoPro Workshop by Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications In part two of my blog on green marketing here are some ideas that worked for a client of The Marx Group.  A&A Midwest is a multi-faceted company that began in 1949 in Chicago. Through their cores division they have been supplying remanufacturers with engines, transmissions and internal engine parts for over 60 years. More recently, through their location in the Las Vegas area they have been involved in recycling metal (ferrous and non-ferrous) and most recently they have transitioned to become a full-service recycler handling plastic, cardboard, and electronics. To help convey A&A Midwest's green message, The Marx Group has assisted the company with marketing and public relations. A key component of this effort has been in the area of community outreach. For three years, A&A Midwest served as the recycling center for Clark County residents who wanted to exchange their polluting gas lawn mower for a new zero-emission, cordless electric model at a greatly reduced price. The program was extremely successful with over 3,000 mowers turned in for recycling. News releases touting A&A Midwest's involvement in the program were published, helping spotlight the company as a green corporate citizen within the Las Vegas area. The company's president and CEO, Scott Stolberg, has made numerous presentations in the community about the benefits of recycling. As a result of these activities, the company has received favorable TV, print and online coverage by Las Vegas area media. In addition, A&A Midwest has developed several helpful informational flyers educating consumers on metal recycling, metal theft and the benefits of remanufacturing. To download and view these publications, visit http://www.aamidwest.com/recycling/new-guide-to-recycling-scrap-metal/ There are several important points to remember from A&A Midwest's story: 1.    Make yourself available to the media for green stories. As an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility you have the expertise to speak authoritatively on green practices. Often the media do not know who to contact for help with a story. 2.    Publicize your green, sustainable practices. There are most likely things you are doing that the media are not aware of. So take the time to tell your story in a news release, customer newsletter and on your website. 3.    Tell about your educational efforts. Develop educational materials that fit your business and make them available in person when you are out to visit customers or prospects. They should also be available for download on your website. 4.    Avoid "greenwashing." Greenwashing is the dangerous practice of saying you are a green company, but not really practicing what you preach. It is a form of spin in which green PR or green marketing is deceptively used to promote the perception that an organization's aims and policies are environmentally friendly. Whether it is to increase profits or gain political support, greenwashing may be used to manipulate popular opinion to support otherwise questionable aims. It is a hypocrisy that business customers and consumers will immediately recognize. Next time in the final part of my blog on green marketing, I'll take a look at some ideas from ASA-IL on what an environmentally conscious automotive repair facility looks like. nonadult false Green Marketing Ideas - pt. 2 text blog 823 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 0 6327635 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Green-Marketing-Ideas-pt-1/blog/6320091/31710.html by Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsEverybody talks about being “green” in their business practices and consumers will often say they are interested in buying “green” products. The reality is that a lot of people talk about it, but few businesses of individuals actually do it. There are numerous studies that back up this disparity between the desire to be green and actually taking action to do it. Through my association with APRA and The Marx Group, earlier this year I had the opportunity to address the subject of “Green Marketing” at the Heavy Duty Remanufacturing Group’s (HDRG) Heavy Duty Summit in Las Vegas, Nev. The group is part of APRA and the event was held just prior to the start of a very successful Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week. As I reminded the audience, composed of heavy duty remanufacturers, “Green is not a new message. Your industry has been green for over 80 years now!” Over the course of several blog posts, I want to share with you some ideas on how you can become more green in your marketing. If you think about your daily life, most of us have increased our "green" footprint just by participating in recycling programs through our town's waste management hauler. In my town it couldn't be more simple. Garbage goes in a silver cart and the recyclable items go in a blue cart. It is just a matter of rolling the carts to the edge of the driveway once a week and the waste management company does the rest. Our recycling cart always has more items than our garbage bin. Even if your company is not a remanufacturer, "green" is something you should embrace and can offer a huge selling point when telling your story. A look at all your business practices may uncover environmental strengths within your company, such as the use of recycled parts or renewable resources. Automotive repair shops can boast of their green accomplishments--recycling oil, cores and metal parts are just some of the ways they are green on a daily basis. Keep in mind that the “green” message can be used to attract socially-conscious young people who are looking for jobs that support the green cause. It can also create goodwill with customers and build awareness of your products and services. In addition, green messaging can help your business “walk its talk” and should be integrated throughout your business. Make sure you identify the audience that cares about green and take the time to focus on long-term opportunities. Next time I'll take a look at one company's story on how they've embraced the green message. by Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsEverybody talks about being “green” in their business practices and consumers will often say they are interested in buying “green” products. The reality is that a lot of people talk about it, but few businesses of individuals actually do it. There are numerous studies that back up this disparity between the desire to be green and actually taking action to do it. Through my association with APRA and The Marx Group, earlier this year I had the opportunity to address the subject of “Green Marketing” at the Heavy Duty Remanufacturing Group’s (HDRG) Heavy Duty Summit in Las Vegas, Nev. The group is part of APRA and the event was held just prior to the start of a very successful Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week. As I reminded the audience, composed of heavy duty remanufacturers, “Green is not a new message. Your industry has been green for over 80 years now!” Over the course of several blog posts, I want to share with you some ideas on how you can become more green in your marketing. If you think about your daily life, most of us have increased our "green" footprint just by participating in recycling programs through our town's waste management hauler. In my town it couldn't be more simple. Garbage goes in a silver cart and the recyclable items go in a blue cart. It is just a matter of rolling the carts to the edge of the driveway once a week and the waste management company does the rest. Our recycling cart always has more items than our garbage bin. Even if your company is not a remanufacturer, "green" is something you should embrace and can offer a huge selling point when telling your story. A look at all your business practices may uncover environmental strengths within your company, such as the use of recycled parts or renewable resources. Automotive repair shops can boast of their green accomplishments--recycling oil, cores and metal parts are just some of the ways they are green on a daily basis. Keep in mind that the “green” message can be used to attract socially-conscious young people who are looking for jobs that support the green cause. It can also create goodwill with customers and build awareness of your products and services. In addition, green messaging can help your business “walk its talk” and should be integrated throughout your business. Make sure you identify the audience that cares about green and take the time to focus on long-term opportunities. Next time I'll take a look at one company's story on how they've embraced the green message. Tue, 04 Sep 2012 19:58:43 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Green-Marketing-Ideas-pt-1/blog/6320091/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-09-04T19:58:43Z Motor Age AutoPro Workshop by Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsEverybody talks about being “green” in their business practices and consumers will often say they are interested in buying “green” products. The reality is that a lot of people talk about it, but few businesses of individuals actually do it. There are numerous studies that back up this disparity between the desire to be green and actually taking action to do it. Through my association with APRA and The Marx Group, earlier this year I had the opportunity to address the subject of “Green Marketing” at the Heavy Duty Remanufacturing Group’s (HDRG) Heavy Duty Summit in Las Vegas, Nev. The group is part of APRA and the event was held just prior to the start of a very successful Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week. As I reminded the audience, composed of heavy duty remanufacturers, “Green is not a new message. Your industry has been green for over 80 years now!” Over the course of several blog posts, I want to share with you some ideas on how you can become more green in your marketing. If you think about your daily life, most of us have increased our "green" footprint just by participating in recycling programs through our town's waste management hauler. In my town it couldn't be more simple. Garbage goes in a silver cart and the recyclable items go in a blue cart. It is just a matter of rolling the carts to the edge of the driveway once a week and the waste management company does the rest. Our recycling cart always has more items than our garbage bin. Even if your company is not a remanufacturer, "green" is something you should embrace and can offer a huge selling point when telling your story. A look at all your business practices may uncover environmental strengths within your company, such as the use of recycled parts or renewable resources. Automotive repair shops can boast of their green accomplishments--recycling oil, cores and metal parts are just some of the ways they are green on a daily basis. Keep in mind that the “green” message can be used to attract socially-conscious young people who are looking for jobs that support the green cause. It can also create goodwill with customers and build awareness of your products and services. In addition, green messaging can help your business “walk its talk” and should be integrated throughout your business. Make sure you identify the audience that cares about green and take the time to focus on long-term opportunities. Next time I'll take a look at one company's story on how they've embraced the green message. motor age nonadult false Green Marketing Ideas - pt. 1 text blog motor age 558 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age 0 6320091 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Customer-Repair-Input/blog/6241697/31710.html By Gary McCoy Frank Anderson, the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, does not rely on the Internet for the bulk of his business.  Anderson has been in the tire business for over 40 years and says like many in the automotive repair industry he faces customers who come in armed with automotive repair information they’ve gathered online. In the last of my four part interview with Anderson, he talks about how he’s dealt with customers and their online repair suggestions. He also explains how different conditions faced by drivers in his area influence the way Frank Anderson Tire repairs vehicles. By Gary McCoy Frank Anderson, the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, does not rely on the Internet for the bulk of his business.  Anderson has been in the tire business for over 40 years and says like many in the automotive repair industry he faces customers who come in armed with automotive repair information they’ve gathered online. In the last of my four part interview with Anderson, he talks about how he’s dealt with customers and their online repair suggestions. He also explains how different conditions faced by drivers in his area influence the way Frank Anderson Tire repairs vehicles. Tue, 24 Jul 2012 19:40:27 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Customer-Repair-Input/blog/6241697/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-07-24T19:40:27Z Motor Age Blogs AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy Frank Anderson, the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, does not rely on the Internet for the bulk of his business.  Anderson has been in the tire business for over 40 years and says like many in the automotive repair industry he faces customers who come in armed with automotive repair information they’ve gathered online. In the last of my four part interview with Anderson, he talks about how he’s dealt with customers and their online repair suggestions. He also explains how different conditions faced by drivers in his area influence the way Frank Anderson Tire repairs vehicles. alignment, anderson, automotive, blogs, brakes, dealers, frank, motor age, repair, suspension, tire nonadult false Customer Repair Input video blog alignment,anderson,automotive,blogs,brakes,dealers,frank,motor age,repair,suspension,tire 1385 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age / Blogs 0 6241697 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_A-Tap-Dance/blog/6220555/31710.html By Gary McCoyGetting information to repair vehicles and balancing it with the real life experiences of his veteran technicians. That's what Frank Anderson calls a “tap dance.” Anderson is the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, a single location tire shop that has been in business for over 40 years. Other than battery replacement and oil changes, the shop limits its repair offerings to tire-related services such as brakes, suspension and alignment. He talks about the necessity of training in the third installment of my recent interview with him. By Gary McCoyGetting information to repair vehicles and balancing it with the real life experiences of his veteran technicians. That's what Frank Anderson calls a “tap dance.” Anderson is the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, a single location tire shop that has been in business for over 40 years. Other than battery replacement and oil changes, the shop limits its repair offerings to tire-related services such as brakes, suspension and alignment. He talks about the necessity of training in the third installment of my recent interview with him. Thu, 12 Jul 2012 07:38:10 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_A-Tap-Dance/blog/6220555/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-07-12T07:38:10Z Motor Age AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoyGetting information to repair vehicles and balancing it with the real life experiences of his veteran technicians. That's what Frank Anderson calls a “tap dance.” Anderson is the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, a single location tire shop that has been in business for over 40 years. Other than battery replacement and oil changes, the shop limits its repair offerings to tire-related services such as brakes, suspension and alignment. He talks about the necessity of training in the third installment of my recent interview with him. alignment, anderson, automotive, brakes, dealers, frank, motor age, repair, suspension, tire, training nonadult false A Tap Dance video blog alignment,anderson,automotive,brakes,dealers,frank,motor age,repair,suspension,tire,training 676 1 5.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age 0 6220555 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Worry-About-Yourself/blog/6213765/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications Frank Anderson, the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, has been in the tire business for over 40 years.  He has 15 employees and operates from one location. In addition to selling tires, he does oil changes and battery replacement along with tire-related repairs for such things as brakes, suspension and alignment.  Anderson limits his services to those items, opting not to expand into underhood services. He says his greatest challenges are getting qualified employees and relating to a changing buying population. Surprising to many people, Anderson says Columbus is a very cosmopolitan area due to the presence of Cummins and a couple of other Fortune 500 companies. He said these major companies employ a broad workforce of different nationalities and from different parts of the country. Anderson says when it comes to competition, he focuses more on what his company does than what others can provide. By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications Frank Anderson, the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, has been in the tire business for over 40 years.  He has 15 employees and operates from one location. In addition to selling tires, he does oil changes and battery replacement along with tire-related repairs for such things as brakes, suspension and alignment.  Anderson limits his services to those items, opting not to expand into underhood services. He says his greatest challenges are getting qualified employees and relating to a changing buying population. Surprising to many people, Anderson says Columbus is a very cosmopolitan area due to the presence of Cummins and a couple of other Fortune 500 companies. He said these major companies employ a broad workforce of different nationalities and from different parts of the country. Anderson says when it comes to competition, he focuses more on what his company does than what others can provide. Fri, 06 Jul 2012 19:02:54 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Worry-About-Yourself/blog/6213765/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-07-06T19:02:54Z Motor Age AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications Frank Anderson, the owner of Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana, has been in the tire business for over 40 years.  He has 15 employees and operates from one location. In addition to selling tires, he does oil changes and battery replacement along with tire-related repairs for such things as brakes, suspension and alignment.  Anderson limits his services to those items, opting not to expand into underhood services. He says his greatest challenges are getting qualified employees and relating to a changing buying population. Surprising to many people, Anderson says Columbus is a very cosmopolitan area due to the presence of Cummins and a couple of other Fortune 500 companies. He said these major companies employ a broad workforce of different nationalities and from different parts of the country. Anderson says when it comes to competition, he focuses more on what his company does than what others can provide. alignment, anderson, automotive, brakes, dealers, frank, motor age, repair, suspension, tire nonadult false Worry About Yourself video blog alignment,anderson,automotive,brakes,dealers,frank,motor age,repair,suspension,tire 1474 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 1 Motor Age 0 6213765 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Focused/blog/6207133/31710.html   By Gary McCoy While some tire dealers have sought to increase business by expanding their services into general automotive repair, Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana has done just the opposite. The shop has been in business for over 40 years and presently has 15 employees. Other than battery replacement and oil changes, the shop limits its repair offerings to tire-related services such as brakes, suspension and alignment.   By Gary McCoy While some tire dealers have sought to increase business by expanding their services into general automotive repair, Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana has done just the opposite. The shop has been in business for over 40 years and presently has 15 employees. Other than battery replacement and oil changes, the shop limits its repair offerings to tire-related services such as brakes, suspension and alignment. Tue, 03 Jul 2012 00:47:22 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Focused/blog/6207133/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-07-03T00:47:22Z Motor Age Blogs AutoPro Workshop   By Gary McCoy While some tire dealers have sought to increase business by expanding their services into general automotive repair, Frank Anderson Tire in Columbus, Indiana has done just the opposite. The shop has been in business for over 40 years and presently has 15 employees. Other than battery replacement and oil changes, the shop limits its repair offerings to tire-related services such as brakes, suspension and alignment. alignment, anderson, automotive, blogs, brakes, dealers, frank, motor age, repair, suspension, tire, tire dealers nonadult false Focused video blog alignment,anderson,automotive,blogs,brakes,dealers,frank,motor age,repair,suspension,tire,tire dealers 1718 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 Motor Age / Blogs 0 6207133 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_GAAS-2012/blog/5934693/31710.html This year will mark the 17th consecutive year that the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) has been held. This year's event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 16 and Thursday, May 17. In this video clip, Denny Welvaert, the new chairman of GAAS, talks about the topics that will be examined at this year's Symposium, the networking opportunities and the cause for which the net proceeds of GAAS are invested in. To examine the complete agenda for GAAS 2012, be sure to visit www.globalsymposium.org. This year will mark the 17th consecutive year that the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) has been held. This year's event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 16 and Thursday, May 17. In this video clip, Denny Welvaert, the new chairman of GAAS, talks about the topics that will be examined at this year's Symposium, the networking opportunities and the cause for which the net proceeds of GAAS are invested in. To examine the complete agenda for GAAS 2012, be sure to visit www.globalsymposium.org. Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:09:41 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_GAAS-2012/blog/5934693/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-04-05T00:09:41Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop This year will mark the 17th consecutive year that the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) has been held. This year's event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 16 and Thursday, May 17. In this video clip, Denny Welvaert, the new chairman of GAAS, talks about the topics that will be examined at this year's Symposium, the networking opportunities and the cause for which the net proceeds of GAAS are invested in. To examine the complete agenda for GAAS 2012, be sure to visit www.globalsymposium.org. aftermarket, ambw, automotive, dennis, education, executive, global, scholarships, symposium, welvaert nonadult false GAAS 2012 video blog aftermarket,ambw,automotive,dennis,education,executive,global,scholarships,symposium,welvaert 560 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 5934693 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Rising-Gas-Prices/blog/5796351/31710.html Fears of $5 per gallon gasoline are on the minds of the automotive aftermarket and consumers in general. I caught up with William A. Strauss last week at a meeting of the Chicago Association of Spring Manufacturers, Inc. (CASMI) and asked him about this issue. Strauss is senior economist and economic advisor for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. In his remarks, Strauss said the outlook is for the U.S. economy to expand at a pace below trend this year and slightly above trend in 2013. Employment is expected to rise moderately, said Strauss, with the unemployment rate edging lower. He said slackness in the economy will lead to a relatively contained inflation rate. In regards to the automotive sector, Strauss said vehicle sales are anticipated to rise at a good pace and that growth in manufacturing output should be solid. Strauss will delve into these and other economic issues when he addresses the 2012 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium on Wednesday, May 16. For more information on GAAS, visit www.globalsymposium.org. Fears of $5 per gallon gasoline are on the minds of the automotive aftermarket and consumers in general. I caught up with William A. Strauss last week at a meeting of the Chicago Association of Spring Manufacturers, Inc. (CASMI) and asked him about this issue. Strauss is senior economist and economic advisor for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. In his remarks, Strauss said the outlook is for the U.S. economy to expand at a pace below trend this year and slightly above trend in 2013. Employment is expected to rise moderately, said Strauss, with the unemployment rate edging lower. He said slackness in the economy will lead to a relatively contained inflation rate. In regards to the automotive sector, Strauss said vehicle sales are anticipated to rise at a good pace and that growth in manufacturing output should be solid. Strauss will delve into these and other economic issues when he addresses the 2012 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium on Wednesday, May 16. For more information on GAAS, visit www.globalsymposium.org. Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:19:53 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Rising-Gas-Prices/blog/5796351/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-02-21T15:19:53Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop Fears of $5 per gallon gasoline are on the minds of the automotive aftermarket and consumers in general. I caught up with William A. Strauss last week at a meeting of the Chicago Association of Spring Manufacturers, Inc. (CASMI) and asked him about this issue. Strauss is senior economist and economic advisor for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. In his remarks, Strauss said the outlook is for the U.S. economy to expand at a pace below trend this year and slightly above trend in 2013. Employment is expected to rise moderately, said Strauss, with the unemployment rate edging lower. He said slackness in the economy will lead to a relatively contained inflation rate. In regards to the automotive sector, Strauss said vehicle sales are anticipated to rise at a good pace and that growth in manufacturing output should be solid. Strauss will delve into these and other economic issues when he addresses the 2012 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium on Wednesday, May 16. For more information on GAAS, visit www.globalsymposium.org. a., aftermarket, ambw, automotive, bank, chicago, economic, federal, gas, global, inflation, of, outlook, prices, reserve, strauss, symposium, unemployment, william nonadult false Rising Gas Prices video blog a.,aftermarket,ambw,automotive,bank,chicago,economic,federal,gas,global,inflation,of,outlook,prices,reserve,strauss,symposium,unemployment,william 481 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 5796351 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Open-Book-Management/blog/5699514/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsI recently had the chance to interview Todd Patkin, who ran his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International, until it was sold to Advance Auto Parts in 2005. He published a book last year about his experiences working in the business and his battle to become a happier person after suffering a breakdown. In his book, “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine in” (StepWise Press, 2011), he shares many personal stories about his struggles toward achieving balance in his life. He also addresses many business issues, including his quest to “share the wealth” with his employees. “It is one thing to offer generous incentives to managers and other employees, but to get the most out of people, you also need to show them the actual numbers,” writes Patkin in his book. “This allows them to fully understand the relationship between their performance and the bottom line---and thus their own pay. I am a great believer in ‘open-book management’ because I think it helps the employee understand how his or her everyday choices and decisions affect the bigger picture. This understanding then promotes better decision-making on the part of employees for themselves and for the good of the entire company.” While Patkin tried to help his employees financially, in this audio excerpt he shares one way that he rewarded employees without money.  By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsI recently had the chance to interview Todd Patkin, who ran his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International, until it was sold to Advance Auto Parts in 2005. He published a book last year about his experiences working in the business and his battle to become a happier person after suffering a breakdown. In his book, “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine in” (StepWise Press, 2011), he shares many personal stories about his struggles toward achieving balance in his life. He also addresses many business issues, including his quest to “share the wealth” with his employees. “It is one thing to offer generous incentives to managers and other employees, but to get the most out of people, you also need to show them the actual numbers,” writes Patkin in his book. “This allows them to fully understand the relationship between their performance and the bottom line---and thus their own pay. I am a great believer in ‘open-book management’ because I think it helps the employee understand how his or her everyday choices and decisions affect the bigger picture. This understanding then promotes better decision-making on the part of employees for themselves and for the good of the entire company.” While Patkin tried to help his employees financially, in this audio excerpt he shares one way that he rewarded employees without money.  Mon, 09 Jan 2012 03:18:18 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Open-Book-Management/blog/5699514/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2012-01-09T03:18:18Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsI recently had the chance to interview Todd Patkin, who ran his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International, until it was sold to Advance Auto Parts in 2005. He published a book last year about his experiences working in the business and his battle to become a happier person after suffering a breakdown. In his book, “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine in” (StepWise Press, 2011), he shares many personal stories about his struggles toward achieving balance in his life. He also addresses many business issues, including his quest to “share the wealth” with his employees. “It is one thing to offer generous incentives to managers and other employees, but to get the most out of people, you also need to show them the actual numbers,” writes Patkin in his book. “This allows them to fully understand the relationship between their performance and the bottom line---and thus their own pay. I am a great believer in ‘open-book management’ because I think it helps the employee understand how his or her everyday choices and decisions affect the bigger picture. This understanding then promotes better decision-making on the part of employees for themselves and for the good of the entire company.” While Patkin tried to help his employees financially, in this audio excerpt he shares one way that he rewarded employees without money.  advance, ambw, auto, beating, depression, employees, finding, happiness, internantional, management, part, patkin, todd nonadult false Open-Book Management audio blog advance,ambw,auto,beating,depression,employees,finding,happiness,internantional,management,part,patkin,todd 641 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 5699514 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_The-Power-of-Thanks/blog/5664577/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications"If your organization hasn’t made a conscious effort to instill an ‘attitude of gratitude’ into your organization, you’re ignoring one of your most useful and lucrative tools,” says Todd Patkin, author of the new book “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine in” (StepWise Press, 2011).     Patkin speaks from years of experience. For nearly two decades, he was instrumental in leading his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International, to new heights until it was finally bought by Advance Auto Parts in 2005. During that time, Patkin learned just how valuable a culture of gratitude can be, and he made it his number-one priority to always put his people and their happiness first.     In a recent interview with Patkin, he explained how he instilled this attitude into the culture of his company to bring about change. By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications"If your organization hasn’t made a conscious effort to instill an ‘attitude of gratitude’ into your organization, you’re ignoring one of your most useful and lucrative tools,” says Todd Patkin, author of the new book “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine in” (StepWise Press, 2011).     Patkin speaks from years of experience. For nearly two decades, he was instrumental in leading his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International, to new heights until it was finally bought by Advance Auto Parts in 2005. During that time, Patkin learned just how valuable a culture of gratitude can be, and he made it his number-one priority to always put his people and their happiness first.     In a recent interview with Patkin, he explained how he instilled this attitude into the culture of his company to bring about change. Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:12:44 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_The-Power-of-Thanks/blog/5664577/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2011-12-22T19:12:44Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications"If your organization hasn’t made a conscious effort to instill an ‘attitude of gratitude’ into your organization, you’re ignoring one of your most useful and lucrative tools,” says Todd Patkin, author of the new book “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine in” (StepWise Press, 2011).     Patkin speaks from years of experience. For nearly two decades, he was instrumental in leading his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International, to new heights until it was finally bought by Advance Auto Parts in 2005. During that time, Patkin learned just how valuable a culture of gratitude can be, and he made it his number-one priority to always put his people and their happiness first.     In a recent interview with Patkin, he explained how he instilled this attitude into the culture of his company to bring about change. advance, ambw, auto, beating, depression, finding, gratitude, happiness, internantional, part, patkin, todd nonadult false The Power of Thanks audio blog advance,ambw,auto,beating,depression,finding,gratitude,happiness,internantional,part,patkin,todd 536 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 5664577 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Quest-for-Happiness/blog/5659038/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications The executive of a successful family led auto parts business is not the person you would think of as unhappy. But sometimes appearances can be deceiving. Todd Patkin was running his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International (which was sold to Advance Auto Parts in 2005), but he wasn’t happy despite financial success and a loving family. He chronicled his journey of getting to a better emotional state in a new book called: “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine In” (StepWise Press, 2011).  It is part memoir, part self-help guide. You can read more about the book at www.toddpatkin.com. In a recent interview with Patkin, I asked him about his motivation for writing the book. (Click on audio button above to hear.) By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications The executive of a successful family led auto parts business is not the person you would think of as unhappy. But sometimes appearances can be deceiving. Todd Patkin was running his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International (which was sold to Advance Auto Parts in 2005), but he wasn’t happy despite financial success and a loving family. He chronicled his journey of getting to a better emotional state in a new book called: “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine In” (StepWise Press, 2011).  It is part memoir, part self-help guide. You can read more about the book at www.toddpatkin.com. In a recent interview with Patkin, I asked him about his motivation for writing the book. (Click on audio button above to hear.) Tue, 20 Dec 2011 17:48:20 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Quest-for-Happiness/blog/5659038/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2011-12-20T17:48:20Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway Communications The executive of a successful family led auto parts business is not the person you would think of as unhappy. But sometimes appearances can be deceiving. Todd Patkin was running his family’s auto parts business, Auto Part International (which was sold to Advance Auto Parts in 2005), but he wasn’t happy despite financial success and a loving family. He chronicled his journey of getting to a better emotional state in a new book called: “Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine In” (StepWise Press, 2011).  It is part memoir, part self-help guide. You can read more about the book at www.toddpatkin.com. In a recent interview with Patkin, I asked him about his motivation for writing the book. (Click on audio button above to hear.) advance, ambw, auto, beating, depression, finding, happiness, internantional, part, patkin, todd nonadult false Quest for Happiness audio blog advance,ambw,auto,beating,depression,finding,happiness,internantional,part,patkin,todd 697 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 5659038 4244332 Member 250 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Family-Business-Mistakes/blog/5621205/31710.html By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsIn a recent presentation to the Spring Manufacturers Association (SMI), Joe Murray of First Financial Group reviewed six mistakes that can most commonly prove disastrous for family businesses. He provided attendees with a risk barometer to help assess the health of their business.    Murray said the most common mistakes that family business owners make are contained in these statements:1.    "I know what my business is worth."2.    "I'm too busy running the company."3.    "That'll never happen to me."4.    "There's plenty of time for that."5.    "My business is my retirement."6.    "You can't beat Uncle Sam."    Murray said every family business needs to have a succession plan and a team of advisors in place. Why? So there is a way to transition the business to the next generation.  He said this is especially important because the odds of a family business surviving to the second or third generation are difficult without this. By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsIn a recent presentation to the Spring Manufacturers Association (SMI), Joe Murray of First Financial Group reviewed six mistakes that can most commonly prove disastrous for family businesses. He provided attendees with a risk barometer to help assess the health of their business.    Murray said the most common mistakes that family business owners make are contained in these statements:1.    "I know what my business is worth."2.    "I'm too busy running the company."3.    "That'll never happen to me."4.    "There's plenty of time for that."5.    "My business is my retirement."6.    "You can't beat Uncle Sam."    Murray said every family business needs to have a succession plan and a team of advisors in place. Why? So there is a way to transition the business to the next generation.  He said this is especially important because the odds of a family business surviving to the second or third generation are difficult without this. Sat, 10 Dec 2011 16:25:19 GMT http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Family-Business-Mistakes/blog/5621205/31710.html FairwayCommunications 2011-12-10T16:25:19Z AMBW AutoPro Workshop By Gary McCoy, Fairway CommunicationsIn a recent presentation to the Spring Manufacturers Association (SMI), Joe Murray of First Financial Group reviewed six mistakes that can most commonly prove disastrous for family businesses. He provided attendees with a risk barometer to help assess the health of their business.    Murray said the most common mistakes that family business owners make are contained in these statements:1.    "I know what my business is worth."2.    "I'm too busy running the company."3.    "That'll never happen to me."4.    "There's plenty of time for that."5.    "My business is my retirement."6.    "You can't beat Uncle Sam."    Murray said every family business needs to have a succession plan and a team of advisors in place. Why? So there is a way to transition the business to the next generation.  He said this is especially important because the odds of a family business surviving to the second or third generation are difficult without this. ambw, business, family, financial, first, group, joe, murray, planning, succession, survival nonadult false Family Business Mistakes video blog ambw,business,family,financial,first,group,joe,murray,planning,succession,survival 2102 0 0.0 http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=4244332&as=31710 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/31710/photos/PHOTO_2145610_31710_4244332_ap_160X120.jpg false United States IL Elgin 60123 0 AMBW 0 5621205 4244332 Member 250