When I ran shops and needed to get the story behind the vehicle problem, the first thing I always did was ask the driver that drives the vehicle the most and/or experiences the problem the most, whoever it may be, male or female, to tell me the story. I would make notes and when they were done, I then asked more qualifying questions to try and pinpoint the problem(s) and when they would happen.
I had so many people tell me that they had been to other shops and they never got to talk to anyone from the shop. My questions surprised them. That involved the customer in the diagnosis and repair of the problem(s). I basically did not let them be left out of the process.
I have my experience and qualifications and certificates out on CL and FB, in an ad for a job as a remote Automotive Service Manager/Writer/Advisor. I don't need to be at the shop to do that. Pics and computers and phones allow me to do all I need to do. I have a couple shop owners that are interested but not ready to jump yet. My pay would be minimal compared to being there and my medical is covered by VA and my hours are flexible.
