Attracting and Keeping Tech Talent
How Small Shops Can Stand Out in a Tight Labor Market
Every shop owner knows the struggle: cars are lined up, phones are ringing, but finding (and keeping) skilled technicians feels harder than fixing a transmission in the dark. Big dealerships and national chains often lure techs with higher pay and flashy benefits — so how can small, independent shops compete?
The good news: many techs value more than just a paycheck. Here are three ways your shop can stand out in today’s labor market:
Build a Company Culture Techs Want to Work in
Big dealer groups are corporate and impersonal. A huge edge small shops have is creating a team environment where your technicians feel respected and supported by you
- Celebrate wins, even small ones
- When life happens, be flexible if your team needs time off
- Encourage input - let the techs know their opinions are important
Word spreads fast, and a good work environment and work life balance is often more attractive than $2 extra an hour
Invest in Growth, Not Just Labor
Many times, techs will leave a job because they feel stuck in a rut. Show your team and potential hires that your shop isn't just a paycheck
- Offer training on new vehicle technologies
- Pay for certifications or online courses
- Set clear paths for advancement from entry level all the way to lead tech or foreman
When techs see a future with your shop, they are more likely to stick around
Offer Creative Benefits Dealers Can't
You may not be able to match the big corporate health plans, but your can be creative
- Flexible schedules or 4 day work weeks
- Tool allowances or parts discounts
- Free family vehicle maintenance
- Profit sharing or bonuses tied to shop success
Little benefits like these show you value your team as people, and that makes a big difference.
Attracting and keeping talent in a tight labor market doesn't mean you need to outspend the big guys. Creating a place where people want to work will not only attract great employees, but keep them for the long haul.
Want to talk more about how to make your shop a place your people will want to be? Call us at 607-385-0416 or email HRHelp@flworkplace.com to take your first steps
Cheers!
Aaron
