OUR LATEST INSIGHTS

Up to date, high-level business information that is relevant to our clients and contacts, helping keep up to date on the ver-changing business world of today.

Rebecca Enter / June 18, 2024

Presenting at Cannabiziac

Youssef was recently invited to speak at Cannabiziac’s Get In The Biz event in Toronto. He spoke about Schooley Mitchell’s unique ability to aid new businesses with reducing costs and optimize your common expenses. Cannabiziac provides its members an inclusive cannabis ecosystem that provides education and training, business and financial resources, networking opportunities, mentorship, advocacy, and a community for cannabis companies (start-up and growing enterprises) across the United States and around the globe.

Rebecca Enter / March 18, 2024

Beachcombers Corvette Club donates to Shepherd’s Office

Brian and Linda were recently featured in  The Cape Gazette, with an article about their work as co-chairs of the show of their car club’s show. Their contributions led to the donation of $2600.00 to Shepherd’s Office, a local community kitchen and homeless services centre. It is reads as written below:

At the monthly meeting of the Beachcombers Corvette Club of Southern Delaware, members presented a check for $2,600 to Jim Martin, president and director of The Shepherd’s Office in Georgetown.

The donation amount represents net proceeds from the Beachcombers Annual Car Show held Aug. 19 at First State Chevrolet in Georgetown.

The Shepherd’s Office mission is to help feed, clothe and care for those who are homeless, hungry or lonely, thereby improving the lives of people in great need and helping them become self-reliant.

The Beachcombers again extend thanks to all who attended the show and made it a success. Thanks also go to the Delaware Aviation Museum Foundation for the Panchito flyover, and to the many individuals and businesses that donated to the show. Special thanks go to First State Chevrolet team members for all their assistance with the show, and their continuing support for the Beachcombers Corvette Club.

Published Dec 10, 2023.

 

Rebecca Enter / February 28, 2024

Sponsoring Ocean View Little League

Schooley Mitchell of Huntington Beach had the pleasure of sponsoring Ocean View Little League’s (OVLL) opening day! A great turnout from local families to watch their youngsters learn how to play ball. Mirka is also Team Mom, meaning she is very involved in organizing the team’s games, events, and fundraising. She’s even utilizing her Schooley Mitchell expertise to optimize the team’s expenses and ensure the team is able to maximize every donation. Go Hot Rods!

Rebecca Enter / January 26, 2024

Lori McDowell To Compete at Speaker Slam

TORONTO, January 19th, 2024 – Lori McDowell, CEO of Reimagine U Strategies and a strategic partner with Schooley Mitchell, is set to compete at Speaker Slam®, North America’s largest inspirational speaking competition. The event will take place on January 30th, 2024, at the prestigious Lula Lounge in Toronto, Canada. She

Speaker Slam®, known for providing a platform for individuals to share their transformative life stories, is gearing up for its 8th season with the first competition of the year on the theme of Reinvention.McDowell is one of 10 remarkable speakers from diverse backgrounds who will take the stage to share their personal journeys of reinvention and growth. They are competing for a prize package valued at over $10,000 and a chance to move on to the 2024 Grand Slam – The Inspirational Speaking Finals in November.

McDowell, passionate about bringing more joy to the world and author of the highly anticipated book, “The Reinvention Mindset,” is excited about the opportunity to participate and share her insights.

“When I saw that one of the Speaker Slam topics was Reinvention, I thought it was serendipity, since I had just written a book called ‘The Reinvention Mindset.’ I am honored to have the opportunity to participate and am excited about the event,” said McDowell. “My goal is to inspire individuals to get past roadblocks and find fulfillment in their careers and lives, just as I have in my own journey.”

“Speaker Slam® has a history of transforming lives and catapulting speakers into new horizons. We’re thrilled to have Lori among our speakers for the ‘Reinvention’ event,” said Dan Shaikh, Co-Founder of Speaker Slam®. “Her story, along with those of the other speakers, embodies the themes of triumph, resilience, and the potential for personal growth.”

The Speaker Slam competition, based in Toronto, is known for its impact in discovering and nurturing speaking talent. The event not only highlights the power of storytelling, but serves as a stepping stone for many in professional speaking careers, TEDx talks, and other global platforms.

Hosted at Toronto’s renowned Lula Lounge, the event marks the start of a year-long series of speaking competitions, providing a stage for these inspiring voices to reach and impact a wider audience. There will be a total of 5 preliminary competitions held. The top 2 winners of this competition will move on to the Grand Slam, the Inspirational Speaking Finals, and compete for the title of Inspirational Speaker of the Year and a prize package valued at up to $50,000!

For more information about the speakers and the event, click here.

Rebecca Enter / January 11, 2024

Recommendation of Detroit Axle

To Whom It May Concern:

Detroit Axle stands as a testament to American ingenuity and dedication to quality. Beginning as a small, family-owned business, they’ve grown into a trusted supplier of premium automotive parts, specializing in everything a weekend mechanic or professional might need to keep vehicles running smoothly. Their commitment to American-made products not only supports the local economy but also ensures a standard of quality that’s hard to beat.

I was first introduced to Detroit Axle years ago through a recommendation from my brother, a seasoned mechanic. Since then, I’ve consistently used them for my auto part needs, installing wheel bearings, rotors and brake pads, and CV axles and have been impressed with the reliability of the parts.

It’s rare to find American-made products that don’t come with a premium price tag, but Detroit Axle breaks the mold. Their products are more affordable than many competitors, but this in no way compromises their quality. Each part I’ve used has met or exceeded my expectations, keeping my vehicles in top condition.

What sets Detroit Axle apart, aside from their exceptional products, is their customer service. They offer free shipping, which is a huge plus for me. Plus, they have humans that still answer the phone!  Additionally, a quick glance at their reviews on Amazon will show you just how well-regarded they are by a community of car enthusiasts and those in the auto repair field alike.

For anyone who values self-reliance in vehicle maintenance or those in the automotive profession seeking reliable parts, I can’t recommend Detroit Axle enough. Their blend of quality, affordability, and commitment to customer satisfaction makes them an ideal choice for anyone serious about their vehicle’s care. Do yourself a favor and check them out; your vehicle (and wallet) will thank you.

Best Regards,

 

Adam Baker

Schooley Mitchell

Rebecca Enter / November 3, 2023

Business Networking Breakfast Presentation

Recently Lori was asked to speak at her local chamber’s Business Networking Breakfast. She’s been an active member of her community for 14 years and is proud to bring her expertise in cost-reduction services to business owners all over the Greater Houston Area. In this presentation, Lori speaks about our services, savings examples, and her adventures in helping people be the best their best versions of themselves.

Rebecca Enter / September 27, 2023

Recommendation of Professional Communications Messaging Services

To Whom It May Concern:

 

I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Professional Communications Messaging Service Inc. and getting to know their operations, as well as having the privilege of witnessing the positive impact they’ve had on many of my clients’ businesses.

Professional Communications Messaging Service Inc. (PCMSI) consistently earns the trust and satisfaction of my clients, and it’s no small feat to make a lasting impression on business owners. Their exceptional services are a testament to their commitment to professionalism and their dedication to ensuring every interaction with their clients’ customers is a positive one.

What’s truly impressive is their commitment to customization. They take the time to understand each client’s unique needs and tailor their services accordingly. This personalized approach not only enhances customer service but also streamlines operations for the businesses they serve.

PCMSI’s 24/7 availability is a game-changer. Their round-the-clock support is like having an extended team that never sleeps, ensuring that businesses are always accessible to their customers, no matter the hour.

Their attention to detail is exceptional. They not only take messages accurately but also follow specific protocols and instructions diligently. This level of precision is invaluable in ensuring that important calls and messages are handled with care and professionalism.

In my line of work, building strong, lasting relationships is paramount. And it’s clear that Professional Communications Messaging Service Inc. shares this philosophy. Their dedication to excellence has made a positive impact on my clients’ businesses, saving them time, resources, and enhancing their reputation in the eyes of their customers.

I wholeheartedly recommend Professional Communications Messaging Service Inc. to any business looking to elevate its communication game. When my clients are happy with a service, I know it’s a testament to the quality and value that Professional Communications Messaging Service Inc. provides. They have my trust, and I believe they can make a positive difference in your business too.

 

Yours truly,

 

Adam Baker

Schooley Mitchell

Rebecca Enter / September 14, 2023

Accelerating Excellence: The Roadmap to Empowering Your Automotive Retail Team Through Training

Investing in training is a pivotal aspect of cultivating a successful automotive retail team. It involves providing continuous learning opportunities to employees, enabling them to develop expertise and remain actively engaged in their roles. Let’s look at a few reasons why training is so vital to your team’s success.

  1. Adapting to Industry Changes: The automotive industry is in a state of constant evolution, with new technologies, customer preferences, and market trends emerging regularly. Training programs keep your team up to date with these changes, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to navigate the shifting landscape.
  2. Product Knowledge: Well-informed employees are better equipped to assist customers effectively. By investing in training, your staff can gain in-depth product knowledge, enabling them to provide accurate information and tailored recommendations to customers. This not only fosters trust but also contributes to higher sales and customer satisfaction.
  3. Customer Service Excellence: Training programs can focus on customer service skills, teaching employees how to interact with customers in a friendly, helpful, and professional manner. These skills are paramount in creating positive customer experiences and building lasting relationships.
  4. Adopting Best Practices: Training offers the opportunity to introduce and reinforce best practices within your dealership. Whether it’s sales techniques, service protocols, or safety procedures, consistent training ensures that everyone is on the same page, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
  5. Employee Engagement: Providing learning and development opportunities demonstrates your commitment to employee growth and career progression. Engaged employees are more likely to feel valued and motivated in their roles, which can reduce turnover and enhance overall workplace morale.
  6. Productivity Enhancement: Training programs can include modules on time management, task prioritization, and workflow optimization, empowering your team to work more efficiently and boost overall productivity. This translates to streamlined operations and increased capacity to serve customers effectively.
  7. Competitive Edge: Well-trained employees can give your dealership a competitive edge. They can handle customer inquiries confidently, address concerns effectively, and differentiate your dealership from competitors that may lack similarly informed and skilled staff.
  8. Retention and Growth: Training programs can also be linked to career advancement. When employees see a path for growth and development within the dealership, they are more likely to stay with your organization for the long term, reducing turnover and associated hiring costs.
  9. Compliance and Safety: In some cases, training is essential for compliance with industry regulations and safety standards. Ensuring that your team is well-versed in these areas helps prevent costly legal issues and safety incidents.

In essence, investing in training is an investment in the long-term success of your dealership. It equips your employees with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to industry changes, deliver exceptional customer service, and drive growth. Moreover, it fosters a culture of continuous improvement and engagement, benefiting both your team members and the customers they serve.

 

 

Rebecca Enter / September 14, 2023

Driving Success: The Essential Connection Between Employee Well-Being and Customer Satisfaction in Auto Retail

In the world of automotive retail, success isn’t just about selling cars; it’s about fostering a thriving ecosystem where employees flourish, and customers leave with smiles on their faces. As upper-level management personnel in the industry have attested, the secret to achieving this lies in a simple but profound principle: “If you take care of your people, they will take care of your customers.

The Employee-First Mindset

In the fiercely competitive automotive retail landscape, it’s easy to get caught up in strategies, quotas, and bottom lines. However, savvy leaders have recognized that the heartbeat of a dealership is its people. When you prioritize the well-being and development of your team members, the benefits ripple outwards, profoundly impacting customer satisfaction and the dealership’s bottom line.

Employee Acquisition: The First Step

Attracting top talent begins with offering a workplace that values and nurtures its employees. Competitive compensation packages, growth opportunities, and a supportive work culture all play pivotal roles in making your dealership an employer of choice.

  1. Competitive Compensation: To attract the best, you need to offer competitive salaries, bonuses, and benefits packages. This not only draws in top talent but also motivates your team to excel.
  2. Growth and Learning: The Automotive retail space is dynamic with ever-evolving technologies and customer expectations. Provide ongoing training and development opportunities to keep your team ahead of the curve. Take the time to find out what training and development opportunities they are most interested in. Due to the training standards set by the manufacturer some training is nonnegotiable however there are a plethora of conferences, speakers, and training programs that are available beyond the manufacturer required training & development.
  3. Positive Work Culture: Cultivate an environment where collaboration, respect, and innovation thrive. A happy team is more likely to deliver exceptional service.

Employee Retention: The Key to Customer Loyalty

While attracting talent is essential, retaining it is equally critical. High employee turnover can be costly and disruptive, but it can also harm the customer experience. Loyal, knowledgeable employees are more likely to create lasting customer relationships.

  1. Invest in Training: Offer continuous training to help your employees build expertise and stay engaged in their roles.
  2. Recognition and Appreciation: Recognize and reward hard work and dedication. Feeling valued keeps employees motivated and loyal.
  3. Work-Life Balance: Promote a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout and keep morale high.

Customer Satisfaction: The Ultimate Reward

When your team members feel valued and empowered, they become brand ambassadors. Their enthusiasm, product knowledge, and commitment to service shine through in every customer interaction.

  1. Engaged Employees Equal Engaged Customers: Engaged employees are more likely to go above and beyond to meet customer needs, leading to higher customer satisfaction levels.
  2. Product Knowledge: Well-trained employees can provide accurate information and guide customers through the purchasing process, instilling trust and confidence.
  3. Loyalty Begets Loyalty: Customers notice when employees are happy and motivated, making them more likely to return for future purchases and recommend your dealership to others.

In conclusion, the automotive retail industry is a competitive arena where success hinges on the people who drive it forward. Customers want to buy cars from people they like, know and trust. By prioritizing employee acquisition and retention, you not only create a thriving workplace but also ensure that your customers receive the exceptional service they deserve. Remember, “If you take care of your people, they will take care of your customers,” and that’s a mantra that can transform your dealership’s success story.