matda

Filling the Bucket: How to Keep Work Flowing and Techs Busy Year-Round

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 15:08:19 GMT

Every shop owner knows the challenge: one week the bays are slammed, the next, you’re wondering where all the cars went. Feast or famine cycles can drain revenue and take a toll on your crew. Technicians thrive on consistency. And in today’s hiring environment, it’s already hard enough to find good ones—so why risk giving them a reason to start looking somewhere else? But what if you could smooth out the peaks and valleys by “filling the bucket” with future work?

What Does “Filling the Bucket” Mean?

Think of your shop’s workload as a bucket. When it's full, your technicians are busy, productivity is high, and your revenue looks solid. But when the bucket runs dry—whether it’s due to seasonality, weather, or random slowdowns—you’re left scrambling.

“Filling the bucket” is all about identifying, planning, and scheduling future work in advance so that when things get quiet, you’ve already got a backlog ready to go.

Why This Works

Increases Technician Efficiency
Techs don’t make money (build morale) sitting around. When work is steady, they stay focused, productive, and profitable.
Builds Customer Trust
Pre-scheduling future repairs or maintenance shows customers you’re looking out for their long-term vehicle health—not just selling them something today.
Maximizes Existing Traffic
Every car that comes through your door is an opportunity to build tomorrow’s workload. Don’t let those opportunities drive away.

How to Start Filling Your Bucket

1. Identify Deferred Work
Perform quality vehicle inspections! During those inspections, take note of any upcoming maintenance or repairs that aren’t urgent today but will be soon. For example: brakes at 4mm, tires due in 3 months, timing belt nearing mileage—it all counts.

2. Educate and Recommend
Talk to customers about this work. Use visuals and explain why it’ll matter in the near future. Then offer to schedule it out in advance or follow up with reminders.

3. Play the Long Game—Don’t Fix Everything Today
Not everything has to be done right now. When your team identifies multiple issues on a vehicle, resist the urge to tackle it all at once. Instead, coach your advisors to spread the work out and buy your team some breathing room.

Train them to underpromise on timelines —give your techs the gift of time to do the job right and reduce the pressure during high-volume days. Then, when you overdeliver , your team gets to be the hero. That “we got it done early for you” moment doesn’t just feel good—it builds loyalty and trust. It also gives you the opportunity to stagger repairs and ensure you’ve always got something lined up during the slow times.

4. Set Future Appointments
Have your advisors suggest scheduling future work before the customer leaves. "Let’s get that on the calendar so you don’t have to worry about it later."

5. Build a Follow-Up System
Use your CRM or shop management software to flag and follow up on deferred work. Reach out during slower periods with reminders or special offers.

6. Keep the Team in the Loop
Make sure your techs and service advisors understand the goal. When they know the shop is playing the long game, they’ll support the process.

Final Thoughts

Filling the bucket isn’t just about keeping your schedule full—it’s about being proactive, organized, and customer-focused. When you build a backlog of meaningful work, you create a buffer against slowdowns and give your techs the consistency they need to thrive.

Don’t wait for the work to come to you. Start filling your bucket today!

Need help getting started? Want to talk to other successful shops using this approach? Just give me a call (804) 712-4112

2 Day Owner Workshop

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 17:30:00 GMT

ASL (Advanced Shop Leadership) & MATDA: 2 Day Owner Workshop

This workshop helps you create a roadmap for success—maximizing your team’s potential, boosting profits, reducing stress, and making your shop a more enjoyable place to work!

�� 6 - 7 MAY, 2025. �� 8:00AM - 5:00PM �� Kansas City, MO

Course Curriculum:

✔ DiSC Assessment
✔ Detailed Financial Training
✔ Difficult Conversations
✔ Understanding Your Balance Sheet
✔ Culture
✔ Overcoming Objections
✔ Detailed Steps to Improve Your Store’s Productivity

To Sign Up, Contact:

Wes Tatum - 804.712.4112
wes@advancedshopleadership.com

George Kingman - 704.506.2164
george@advancedshopleadership.com

Pricing:

$800 Per Attendee
$600 MATDA Rate
$500 LAST CHANCE! Sign up by April 4th

Billing will be handled at the time of sign-up. Travel and accommodation expenses not included.

2 Day Service Advisor Workshop

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:42:11 GMT

ASL (Advanced Shop Leadership) & MATDA: 2 Day Service Advisor Workshop

�� 8 - 9 MAY, 2025 �� 8:00AM - 5:00PM �� Kansas City, MO

Workshop Overview:

This 2-day workshop equips your sales team with the skills and strategies to capitalize on your current customer base, creating a clear roadmap for success. Your team will return reinvigorated and ready to generate at least $5,000 in additional GP every month!

Course Curriculum:

✔ DiSC Assessment
✔ Understanding GP
✔ Process Improvement
✔ Improving Your Store’s Productivity
✔ Your Role in Improving Team Dynamics
✔ Overcoming Objections
✔ Maximizing Inspection Opportunities

To Sign Up, Contact:

Wes Tatum - 804.712.4112
wes@advancedshopleadership.com

George Kingman - 704.506.2164
george@advancedshopleadership.com

Pricing:

$800 Per Attendee
$600 MATDA Rate

Billing will be handled at the time of sign-up. Travel and accommodation expenses not included.

Strengthen Customer Loyalty with Personal Touches: The Power of Handwritten Thank You Notes

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 05:49:33 GMT

In today’s fast-paced digital world, where businesses are constantly competing for attention, it’s easy to forget the simple yet powerful ways we can build lasting relationships with our customers. One of the most effective ways to stand out and ensure customer retention is through the personal touch – specifically, through handwritten thank you notes.

Why Handwritten Notes Matter

In an age of emails, texts, and automated messages, receiving a handwritten note is rare—and that’s exactly why it makes such an impact. Handwritten notes show your customers that you care. They’re personal, thoughtful, and memorable, leaving a lasting impression. Whether it’s a thank you for a recent purchase, a note acknowledging their loyalty, or simply expressing your appreciation, a handwritten note demonstrates that your business values more than just a transaction.

The Benefits of Building Strong Customer Relationships

Increased Customer Loyalty : When customers feel appreciated, they’re more likely to return. Strong relationships foster trust, and customers who trust you are more likely to stay loyal to your brand.
Word-of-Mouth Marketing : Happy, appreciated customers become your best advocates. A personalized thank you note is something they might share with friends, family, or even on social media—leading to organic growth.
Better Customer Retention : It’s more cost-effective to retain a current customer than to find a new one. By keeping your customers happy and building strong relationships, you're investing in long-term success.

Tips for Writing Effective Handwritten Thank You Notes

Be Specific : Reference something personal about the customer’s purchase or interaction with your business. Acknowledge their unique contribution to your success.
Keep It Short & Sweet : Your note doesn’t need to be long, just heartfelt. A simple, genuine message goes a long way.
Use Quality Materials : The presentation matters. Opt for quality stationery that reflects your brand’s image. It shows that you put thought and effort into your communication.
Timeliness is Key : Send the note soon after the transaction or interaction, ideally within a week. This keeps your brand fresh in their mind and shows your prompt appreciation.
Sign It Personally : A signature adds authenticity and shows that a real person, not a machine, took the time to express gratitude.

Examples of Handwritten Thank You Notes

“Thank you so much for your recent purchase of [Product]! We truly appreciate your business, and it’s customers like you who keep us inspired to do what we love every day. Looking forward to serving you again soon!”
“We can’t thank you enough for your continued support. It’s been a pleasure watching your business grow with us. If there’s anything we can do to support you further, don’t hesitate to reach out!”

Final Thoughts

In a world where businesses are fighting for customer attention, small gestures like handwritten thank you notes can make all the difference. They build trust, deepen relationships, and create loyal customers who feel valued. By incorporating these simple practices into your business strategy, you’ll foster a sense of connection that keeps customers coming back for more.

So, grab your pen and paper and start building stronger relationships today!

Maximizing Opportunities During Slower Times

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:41:21 GMT

As tire dealers and auto repair shop owners, we all know that business can have its ebbs and flows. While busier seasons can bring a surge in revenue, slower times offer a valuable opportunity to refine your operations and position your business for greater profitability. Here are three actionable strategies to help you improve processes and boost your gross profit during quieter periods.

1. Streamline Operational Processes

Audit Your Workflow: Take a close look at each step in your service process, from customer check-in to vehicle handoff. Identify bottlenecks, redundancies, or unnecessary steps that can be removed or simplified.
Standardize Procedures: Develop clear, written standard operating procedures (SOPs) for routine tasks. This ensures consistency, reduces errors, and allows new employees to get up to speed more quickly.
Leverage Scheduling Tools: Implement digital scheduling tools to optimize staff allocation and minimize downtime. Automated systems can help ensure that you have the right people in the right place at the right time.
Improve Communication: Use collaboration tools or daily team meetings to keep everyone aligned and informed. Clear communication minimizes misunderstandings and ensures that tasks are completed efficiently.
Delegate Effectively: Empower your team by assigning responsibilities based on individual strengths and roles. This allows managers to focus on higher-level strategic tasks rather than micromanaging day-to-day operations.
Eliminate Waste: Look for areas where resources such as time, materials, or energy are being wasted. For example, evaluate whether certain services or processes can be consolidated to reduce effort and costs.

2. Enhance Employee Training

Upskill Your Team: Provide advanced training to your staff on technical skills, customer service, or upselling techniques. A well-trained team is more efficient and can drive higher sales per customer.
Cross-Training: Teach employees to perform multiple roles. This flexibility can reduce labor costs and ensure smoother operations during busy times.

3. Review Pricing and Profit Margins

Adjust Pricing: Ensure your pricing reflects current market conditions, your costs, and the value you provide. Don’t undervalue your services!
Upsell and Bundle Services : Offer bundled packages or premium services that increase the average ticket size while delivering added value to customers.

By taking proactive steps like these during slower periods, your shop can operate more efficiently and improve your bottom line. Use this time wisely, and you’ll set your business up for sustained success!

Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Rule

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:00:47 GMT

The federal government's Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Rule went into effect on Jan 1, 2024. It requires most entities to report information on their beneficial owners to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network under the Corporate Transparency Act. Entities formed after January 1, 2024, must report upon formation; existing entities have until January 1, 2025 to comply.

Here’s why the BOI reporting matters:

Legal Compliance: Filing the BOI is mandatory for most corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and similar entities formed in or registered to do business in the U.S.
Enhanced Transparency: It helps establish trust with investors, clients, and partners by clarifying ownership structures.
Preventing Fraud: Accurate BOI filings help combat money laundering and other illegal activities by making ownership information accessible to authorities.
Avoid Penalties for Non-Compliance:
Civil penalties up to $500 per day of violation.
Criminal penalties include fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to two years for willful violations.

Make sure to stay on top of your filing requirements to protect your business and avoid potential complications. Filing the information takes less than 10 minutes. To find out if your company is required to file go to www.fincen.gov

Host a Themed Holiday Gathering with a Twist

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 19:05:12 GMT

As the holiday season approaches, auto shop owners have a unique opportunity to strengthen team bonds, show appreciation, and give back to the community. Beyond the typical holiday party, why not go the extra mile and create a memorable experience that celebrates your team while making a positive impact? Here are some ideas to help you think outside the box, plan the perfect holiday gathering, and build a sense of shared purpose through community volunteering.

1. Host a Themed Holiday Gathering with a Twist

Go Retro: Think 1950s mechanic shop style. Rent or borrow some vintage cars, play classic rock, and have a dress code from that era. The nostalgia creates a fun, light-hearted atmosphere and makes for great photos!
Winter Workshop: Set up a "gift-building" activity. Provide parts and materials to build fun holiday-themed crafts or gifts. Get creative! For example, making ornaments or holiday wreaths out of old car parts.

2. Bring a Charitable Element to Your Celebration

Toy Drive and Wrap Party: Set up a toy donation box in your shop leading up to the party, inviting employees, customers, and neighbors to contribute. During the party, host a gift-wrapping station where your team can prepare donations for local shelters or hospitals. This adds a purpose-driven angle to your gathering and brings everyone together for a good cause.
Charity Raffle: Get local vendors to donate prizes, then raffle them off with all proceeds going to a local charity. This could be a win-win as vendors gain exposure, your team feels engaged, and your business supports the community.

3. Engage in a Volunteer Day as a Team

Adopt-a-Family or Community Project: Coordinate with a local charity to "adopt" a family or undertake a specific community project. Spend the day together delivering meals, setting up decorations, or assisting with other needs. This creates shared memories, allowing employees to see a new side of each other outside the workplace.
“Repair It Forward” Day: Organize a day where the team provides free or discounted services to a few local community members in need. Invite your employees to nominate people they know who could use a little extra help, such as single parents, veterans, or elderly residents. Not only will this make a meaningful impact, but it also gives your team the chance to work together on something truly rewarding.

4. Acknowledge and Reward Your Team’s Hard Work

Small, personalized gifts, handwritten notes, or employee recognition awards can go a long way in making each team member feel valued. Instead of traditional end-of-year bonuses, you might consider "experience" gifts like local event tickets, team-building activities, or even a subscription service they’d enjoy.
Take time during the event to thank each team member personally and recognize their unique contributions over the past year. Whether it’s through certificates or speeches, appreciation fosters loyalty and connection.

5. Incorporate Friendly Competition

A friendly competition or game can be an instant morale booster. Organize a holiday-themed scavenger hunt in your shop, a trivia quiz based on fun facts about the team, or a “Shop Olympics” with light-hearted games.
Recognize winners with humorous holiday-themed trophies or “bragging rights” awards. It’s an easy way to create shared laughs and unforgettable moments.

6. Do a Secret Santa Tool Exchange

Instead of a typical gift exchange, have a Secret Santa where everyone gives a small tool or accessory. Set a budget and allow each person to draw names in advance so they can personalize their gift. This can be both practical and fun, especially if you add a twist like “funniest tool” or “most unexpected tool” awards.

Planning Tips for the Perfect Event

Budget Wisely: Get the whole team involved to see what resonates. Sometimes, smaller, thoughtful gestures mean more than lavish spending.
Involve Local Vendors: Collaborate with local businesses for supplies, catering, or raffle items. It boosts community relationships and can create a more unique experience.
Communicate Clearly: Share the event plans early, including any volunteer or donation initiatives, so your team has time to prepare and participate.

A memorable holiday celebration doesn’t need to be extravagant—it simply needs to be heartfelt and inclusive. By blending festive fun with purposeful activities, your holiday event can not only celebrate the season but also reinforce the sense of camaraderie and pride within your auto shop family.

Strong Phone Skills Drive Results!

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:30:08 GMT

As we navigate through our slower business period, it’s crucial to recognize the untapped potential that lies in our phone conversations. Excellent phone skills can make all the difference in turning inquiries into appointments and, ultimately, sales. Here’s why honing these skills is essential and how we can leverage them to boost our business.

1. First Impressions Matter

The phone is often the first point of contact for potential customers. A friendly and professional tone can set the stage for a positive relationship. Remember, people want to feel valued and understood. A warm greeting and attentive listening can establish trust right from the start.

2. Building Rapport

During slower periods, each interaction is an opportunity to build rapport. Ask open-ended questions to engage customers and understand their needs. This not only helps you tailor your pitch but also makes the customer feel heard and appreciated. Personal connections can lead to increased loyalty and referrals. (Hand written thank you letters)

3. Effective Communication of Value

In a slow business climate, clearly communicating the value of our services is more critical than ever. Use the phone to articulate the unique benefits we offer. Highlight promotions, special offerings such as free tire rotations and balance, or alignment checks that may resonate with customers. Be prepared to answer questions and address concerns, reinforcing why now the perfect time is to book.

4. Setting Appointments with Confidence

The goal is to convert conversations into appointments. Use techniques like urgency and exclusivity. For example, you might say, “We’re currently offering a special rate for appointments booked this month, and I’d love to secure a time for you.” Encourage customers to commit to a specific date and time, making it easier for them to say yes.

5. Follow-Up: Persistence Pays Off

Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups. If a potential customer is hesitant, a polite follow-up call or text can remind them of the value we provide and keep the conversation alive. A simple, “I wanted to check in and see if you had any questions about the service we discussed,” can reignite interest.

6. Practice Makes Perfect

Encourage each other to practice phone conversations. Role-playing different scenarios can help us refine our skills, build confidence, and prepare for various customer responses. Regular practice can transform anxious calls into engaging conversations.

In Conclusion

As we move through this slower period, let’s focus on elevating our phone skills. Each call is an opportunity to connect, convey our value, and secure appointments. By investing in our phone interactions, we not only increase our chances of closing sales but also lay the groundwork for lasting customer relationships.

Let’s embrace this challenge and make the most of every call!

If you’re interested in phone training or workshops for your front line teammates please reach out to Advanced Shop Leadership . We can help!

Preparing Your Tire & Auto Repair Business for Tax Breaks

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 14:16:37 GMT

Introduction

Our industry is exciting to run, especially in the summer months when we are generally at our peak, but sometimes we have to do the boring stuff! Let’s see if we can make it ‘not-so-boring’! The tire and automotive repair industry plays a critical role in keeping vehicles on the road, but managing such a business involves more than just technical expertise—it requires savvy financial planning. Maximizing tax breaks can significantly impact your profitability, allowing you to reinvest in your business and secure its future. This article delves into advanced tax-saving strategies tailored to the tire and automotive repair industry, including leveraging the Augusta Rule, setting up Roth IRAs for your children, and smartly using credit card rewards.

1. Advanced Deduction Strategies

Beyond standard deductions, there are advanced methods to further reduce your taxable income.

a. The Augusta Rule:

The Augusta Rule, or Section 280A(g) of the IRS tax code, allows you to rent out your personal residence to your business for up to 14 days per year without reporting the rental income. This rule can be applied to business meetings, strategy sessions, or team events held at your home. The key is to ensure that the rental fee is at fair market value, which you can substantiate by comparing it to local venue rental rates. Proper documentation is crucial, including keeping minutes of meetings and evidence of fair market rental rates. This could allow you to take up to $30k out of the business tax-free. Are we getting excited yet?

b. Cost Segregation Studies:

Cost segregation is a powerful tax strategy that involves breaking down your building and property into various asset classes with shorter depreciation periods. This accelerates depreciation, allowing you to reduce taxable income sooner. For example, certain elements of your shop, such as specialized lighting or flooring, can be depreciated over five or seven years instead of the standard 39 years. This strategy is particularly useful if you've recently purchased or renovated property. A professional cost segregation study ensures that all eligible assets are accurately identified and categorized. Most often, this is not something your CPA does, but someone who specializes in cost segregation. Let me know if you’d like me to introduce you to the company we use.

c. Retirement Plan Contributions:

Contributing to retirement plans like SEP IRAs or Solo 401(k)s not only secures your future but also provides immediate tax deductions. Contributions to these plans are deductible, reducing your taxable income for the year. Furthermore, offering retirement benefits to your employees can qualify your business for tax credits, such as the Small Employer Pension Plan Startup Costs Credit, making it a win-win situation for both you and your employees.

2. Leveraging Family Members in Your Tax Strategy

Family members can play a key role in optimizing your tax strategy, offering unique opportunities for tax savings.

a. Opening Roth IRAs for Your Children:

If your children work for your business, even in a part-time capacity, they can earn income that qualifies them to contribute to a Roth IRA. Roth IRAs offer tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement, making them a powerful tool for long-term wealth accumulation. This strategy not only benefits your children by setting them up for financial success, but it also teaches them valuable lessons about saving and investing. To ensure compliance, the work your children perform must be legitimate, and their wages must be reasonable. Your children can earn over $10k per year, and not have to report the income or pay taxes on it. Talk to your tax advisor, but even hiring them for modeling on your website might be a way to get your younger ones started and reduce the businesses overall tax liability.

b. Employing Family Members:

Hiring family members can lead to significant tax savings. For instance, wages paid to your spouse or children under 18 are not subject to Social Security or Medicare taxes if your business is structured as a sole proprietorship or a partnership where both parents are partners. This reduces your overall tax burden while keeping more income within the family. Additionally, employing family members allows for income splitting, effectively shifting income from higher tax brackets to lower ones.

3. Maximizing Credit Card Rewards for Business Expenses

Using credit cards strategically can be a savvy way to reduce costs and gain additional benefits.

a. Cashback Rewards:

Using credit cards that offer cashback rewards for business expenses is a simple yet effective way to maximize value. Whether you're purchasing supplies, parts or tires, paying for utilities, or covering travel expenses, these cards can earn you significant cashback. The key advantage here is that cashback rewards are not considered taxable income. This means you can use these rewards for personal expenses without worrying about additional tax implications. By not reinvesting the cashback into the business, you effectively increase your personal spending power without increasing your tax burden.

b. Choosing the Right Credit Card:

Selecting the right credit card is crucial. Look for cards that offer the highest cashback percentages on categories where your business spends the most, such as fuel, travel or maintenance supplies. Some cards also offer signup bonuses, which can provide a substantial return on initial purchases. Additionally, consider cards that offer other perks, like travel rewards or purchase protection, which can further enhance your overall benefits.

4. Maximizing Industry-Specific Tax Credits

There are specific tax credits tailored to the tire and automotive repair industry that can provide significant savings.

a. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC):

Hiring from targeted groups, such as veterans or long-term unemployed individuals, can qualify your business for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit. This credit can reduce your tax liability based on the wages paid to these employees. By strategically hiring, you can improve your workforce while also reducing your taxes. This can be tricky however. Remember, the best employee is the one that fits your culture and will do the best job, regardless of tax breaks you may or may not receive.

b. Environmental and Energy Efficiency Credits:

Investing in energy-efficient upgrades, such as installing solar panels or upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems, can qualify your business for federal and state tax credits. These credits not only reduce your tax burden but also lower your operational costs over time.

c. State and Local Incentives:

Many states offer additional tax incentives for businesses in specific industries or locations. These incentives can include credits for operating in enterprise zones or for investing in local workforce development. By researching and taking advantage of these opportunities, you can significantly enhance your overall tax savings. This is something Wes’s company was amazing at.

5. Consulting with Industry-Savvy Tax Professionals

Given the complexity of advanced tax strategies, working with tax professionals who specialize in the tire and automotive repair industry is essential.

a. Specialized Tax Planning:

An industry-savvy tax advisor will understand the unique nuances of your business and can help you navigate complex tax strategies such as the Augusta Rule, Roth IRAs for children, and maximizing credit card rewards. Regular consultations with a tax advisor can help you stay ahead of tax law changes and ensure that you are fully leveraging available tax breaks.

b. Audit Protection and Representation:

In the event of an audit, having a tax professional with industry-specific knowledge can be invaluable. They can help you prepare the necessary documentation, represent you during the audit process, and resolve any issues that arise. This provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on growing your business rather than worrying about potential tax disputes.

c. Keeping Up with Legislative Changes:

Tax laws are constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for maximizing tax savings. A knowledgeable tax advisor can keep you updated on new legislation, IRS rulings, and state-specific tax changes that may affect your business. This proactive approach ensures that you remain compliant while also taking advantage of new opportunities for tax savings.

Conclusion

First and foremost, we’re not a CPA or tax advisor. All of these strategies should generate a conversation with your tax consultant. Maximizing tax breaks for your tire and automotive repair business requires more than just a basic understanding of deductions. By leveraging advanced strategies such as the Augusta Rule, opening Roth IRAs for your children, and strategically using credit card rewards, you can significantly reduce your tax liability and enhance your profitability. Consulting with industry-specific tax professionals will ensure that you stay ahead of the curve, adapting to new tax laws and optimizing your financial strategies for long-term success.

MATDA Scholarship Golf Tournament

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 02:56:58 GMT

Give back to the industry by supporting youth

GOLF SCHOLARSHIP
$80 - Per Golfer
MATDA HESSTON GOLF COURSE
HESSTON, KS

August 17, 2024
Check-in: 12:00pm
Shotgun starts 1:00pm

Federated Insurance® Launches Association Member Benefits Page

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 20:56:22 GMT

Federated Insurance® Launches Association Member Benefits Page

Federated Insurance strives to provide valuable benefits to association members. To continue giving the best support and guidance, an Association Member Benefits page has been created on our website to provide a helpful overview on what Federated® can offer to help maximize your partnership with us.

We ask that you add this link to your webpage as a way to share what Federated provides for association members — and as an opportunity for non-members to see what they can gain from becoming an association member. Also, please send the attached communication to your members, announcing this new value-added Federated resource.

We have also attached a letter for you to use when you have a new member, communicating this value-added Federated resource.

Offerings that are highlighted on this page include:

• The ability to directly contact Federated professionals voice-to-voice and face-to-face

• Safety and risk management services, programs, and support

• Tailored industry-specific products

• Specialized coverages

Take a moment today to explore and utilize this helpful resource.

At Federated Insurance, It’s Our Business to Protect Yours®

MATDA Launches Automotive Social Portal

Tue, 28 Mar 2017 20:51:29 GMT

You're invited to join

Mid-America Tire Dealers Association on the Automotive Social Portal

the most powerful social network in our industry

By joining the portal, you will automatically receive pertinent consumer social content from MATDA, TIA and other content providers. Professional looking content will cover topics such as tire and vehicle safety, proper maintenance, educational subjects, tire recalls, product promotions, government issues and calls-to-action. Through the portal dashboard, you can post this content with a simple click of the mouse to your business social media sites, like Facebook and Twitter, for your customers' benefit.

Additionally, your dashboard allows you to create location-specific, professional looking content and post to all of your locations with one click.

You will be able to participate in manufacturer promotional posts that will drive business into your dealerships.

Claiming your dashboard couldn't be easier...

Single Location Dealerships: Simply click on this link ASP Sign-up, complete the form indicating you are a single location and would like to claim your dashboard. A confirming email will be sent to you.

Multi-location Dealerships: In order to properly set up your dashboard, we need additional information from you. Click on this link ASP Sign-up, complete the form indicating how many locations you have and would like to claim your dashboard. We will be in contact to review your options.

To read our ASP announcement ... check our web site at ASP.

For more information call the MATDA office at 785-286-1110

To learn more about the features of the Automotive Social Portal, contact our supplier partner, Wayne Croswell at 239-703-7177 or

email: wcroswell@wecnology.com .

The Automotive Social Portal is powered by Rallio

Your Dashboard Awaits

Best of all, as a member of MATDA, you are entitled to participate in the portal at NO charge to you. No additional equipment necessary, just access to the Internet.