[jeremyoneal]

Richard,

I have been a service advisor since 1992 and owned my own shop in 2005 – 2007. I am familiar with all the companies you listed and also have worked for a couple of them as a service advisor trainer. In 2010 I started Advisorfix with the mission of providing industry leading service advisor training, coaching, and support. While I don’t believe this is the place for me to give you specific details on my personal experience with these companies I would be happy to speak with you on an individual basis and answer any questions you might have. Here are a couple tips that I can share:

#1 – Don’t sign any long term contracts – Any coaching or support program should have an exit clause for the client, should the training or consulting company fail to deliver the results promised. Remember when you are talking with any consultant/trainer they are going after a sale. If you feel pressured or uncomfortable at any time, just say no. You should feel that the representative has your best interest at heart and really cares about you and your company.

#2 – Does your personal coach have the experience and track record to help you get to where you want to go. I’ve found that many times the results you are looking for can be gained simply by starting your own mastermind group with a few other shop owners. With today’s technology you can facilitate the group very easy through google hangouts, Skype, gotomeeting etc.

#3 – Is your representative going to come on site and analyze your business and local market area? Every shop is different and there are many different demographic factors that come into play with your local area. How are they going to help you gain market share in your local area.

Myles has some great questions as well.