Auto Body Repair Shops Create Goodwill By Donating Cars

Donating goods has long been a tradition during the holidays, but increasingly, you will see reports of owners of auto body repair shops being active in programs which give cars to families. The families who need cars are normally from the lowest income brackets in the community, and are trying to uplift themselves from their difficulties.

Donating cars that a charity uses to buy goods for the needy has been going on for decades, even 50 years or more depending on the organization. Unfortunately though, unscrupulous people have set up "charities" which accept car donations but in fact make healthy profits by donating just a minuscule amount to charity and keeping the rest for themselves. In this regard, it's best to look for an organization that operates and helps out within your area, and who guarantee a big percentage, say 80%, of your donation going to charity.

These scams and the rise of middlemen has brought about an effort from truly concerned citizens and businesses like auto body repair shops to contribute directly, by forming groups that identify, select and then give a vehicle to a person or family. A case in point is an auto body repair business, whose owners have been organizing and leading such an effort for the past ten years.

In cooperation with a four-decade old organization which helps school children and their families, this auto body repair shop has helped low-income families who have demonstrated initiative to become less dependent on public assistance. By pursuing some form of training and participating in the education and development of their children, these families became eligible for this particular program. Using donor cars, this auto body repair shop has donated its services by restoring the cars to roadworthy condition and participating in the turnover to the selected families. Since the start of their donation program ten years ago, this automotive business, which also specializes in collision repair, has contributed to the donation of 56 vehicles in the Austin area. Apart from the obvious tax breaks that this business receives, an equally important aspect of what has become a tradition is the element of social responsibility. Giving what you can creates a huge amount of goodwill for companies like this auto body repair chain, and it has grown from strength to strength over the years.

Following this example, auto body and collision repair shops would do well to initiate similar programs, which not only give back to the community but also help the business by generating goodwill, word-of-mouth advertising and even tax deductions.

Auto Body Paint Repair - Important Considerations

There are many different things that could cause you to go shopping for auto body paint repair services. One of these is the effect of age on a car's paint work: where the paint work almost inevitably tends to get worn out with the passage of time. Then there is the effect of dents and scratches, even on an absolutely new car which could see you having to find someone the repair the body paint work. You could also find yourself looking for car body paint work repairs if you are considering selling your car; in a bid to increase its apparent worth and in turn, its resale value. Yet another reason you could be looking for auto body paint repair services is simply to improve your car's aesthetics, for it is often said that a car's image is a reflection of its owner.

Now there are some important considerations you need to make, even as you shop for car body paint work repair services. The first of these is the cost factor. Do not expect car body paint work repair services to come cheap. They tend to be quite expensive, so that you would probably be look at a minimum of two hundred bucks, for the smallest of repairs. For larger jobs (like where you want the whole car to be repainted), or for specialized jobs (where you want higher quality results), the costs can be significantly higher.

The scope of the auto body paint repair service required is also an important consideration; one which goes a long way in determining the ultimate cost and time frame for the project. Obviously, if you are looking to change your car's color completely, you will not expect the project to take as long as it would if you were looking to have a few spots here and there repainted.

The current state of your car, like whether it is relatively good looking or whether it looks like a collector's item is likely to be another major consideration in this matter; which goes a long way towards determining the cost and time frame for the auto body paint repair project. The people you choose to partner with for your car body paint repair project can also make a great difference. In this regard, there is a tendency to favor the bigger companies over the smaller ones; since the costs per unit for the bigger service providers tend to be lower.

From all this, it becomes clear that one needs to undertake a bit of research and have a basic understanding of the whole auto body paint repair services business before going shopping for the services in question. But with the very huge wealth of information the Internet has brought (literally) up to our fingertips, this sort of research should not be too hard. Ideally, this research should be supplemented by consultation with a professional, who can advise you on the type of service you really need for your car and where to get it cost effectively.

Tips on How to Write Your Video Scripts for Website and Internet Marketing Videos

Video is a must in today's age of marketing. It's been growing in popularity but now it seems to be exploding. If you're not using video on your website, your social media sites, and for internet marketing, then you're going to be left behind.

There are a number of things to think about when writing your video script. You'll need to come up with an overall concept. Keep in mind who your target market is, the message you want to get across, and what you want people to do after watching the video; a call to action that makes it clear what they should do next.

Do some research related to your business using Google or other search engines and see what videos your competitors are doing, if any. Write down what you liked most about your favorite videos and make a list of the key attributes that you may want included in your own video.

You don't want your video any longer than 2 minutes; after that people lose attention. It's best to write a script no longer than 1-1/2 minutes in length. However, the shorter the better as long as you can get the message across in that time.

Below are word estimates to help you determine the length of your script. If you use "Microsoft Word" you can highlight your script and have the program tell you how many words have been written.

180 words = 60 seconds / 225 words = 75 seconds / 270 words = 90 seconds

When writing your script, be sure to include what would be most important to your potential customer; things that would encourage them to give you business.

SCRIPT WRITING QUESTIONNAIRE:

Think about each of the questions below, write down the answers, and then formulate it into a script. Keep in mind your target market.

1. Research related businesses and see what videos your competitors are doing, if any. Write down what you liked most about your favorite video's, make a list of the key attributes that you may want included in your own video, and send us links to those video's.

2. What is the overall video message that you want to get across?

3. Where do you do business and what communities do you serve?

4. What year did you start your business?

5. If you have a company tag line, write it down and use it.

6. Write down exactly what you provide?

7. List in detail the services or products that you want highlighted?

8. What makes you different then your competitors? (why someone should hire your business over someone else)

9. Do you have any special awards or recognition that you should mention?

10. Are you with the Better Business Bureau? What is your rating?

11. If there is a "call to action" (something you want them to do at the end of the video), write that down.

Once you've answered the questions above, shorten them as much as you can without taking out important details. Then put everything in an order and create transitions between each. Now would be a good time to see how many words you have in the script. If it's too long, start looking for what you can cut and what you can reword to make it shorter. Continue to do this until you have the script down to no more then 270 words.

You want to start working on your script as soon as possible because there will be a number of drafts needed before you finalize it. Start with your first draft, walk away from it for a day or so and then come back to it and see if you think changes are needed. Do this until you come back to it and see no changes. Once you have your final draft, have some unbiased people read it for their comments. Make sure you tell them to be honest.

NOTE: Just because someone suggests a change doesn't mean you have to make that change. It's your script and it's your business so you make the final decision as to what gets changed. However, keep in open mind because many times their insights are valid and a change is needed.

SCRIPT EXAMPLES: (both of these examples are for scripts that would be used on a "Home" or "About Us" page)

Example #1 - Welcome to Primo Auto Glass. We've been serving the community since 1990 in Santa Clarita, California with windshield repair and windshield replacement. We provide fast service, affordable rates, great quality and free mobile service. All of your glass needs are in stock to get you back on the road quick and easy. Our installers have over 30 years of combined experience which allows us to provide you with a lifetime warranty against any leaks, defects with the materials and glass. We're licensed, insured, and accredited with the Business Bureau with an A+ rating. So come down to Primo Auto Glass and get the service you deserve. (this script is about 35 seconds. After adding a short testimonial and a closing, the video ended up being just over a minute)

Example #2 - Welcome to 20/20 Eye Care Center. I'm Dr. Chiana the owner and founder. Since 1990 we have been serving the Fullerton community by giving them the highest quality care for all their ocular needs. Whether you need eyeglasses, contact lenses, or are interested in LASIK surgery, we can help you get the very best for your eyes. We have a wide selection of frames including Designers such as Coach, Rayban, fendi, Guess and more with a wide range of prices to fit any style you may be interested in. We also specialize in hard-to-fit contact lens patients and we are able to treat most eye diseases. Our practice has state of the Art Equipment and includes computerized Eye Exams. We know that insurance can be complicated, so we will assist you in getting it and understanding your benefits; helping you to sort out which options are most beneficial for you. My associate doctors and bilingual staff are friendly and ready to assist you with whatever you need. We are open six days a week to accommodate your schedule, and we have a lab on the premises to get your glasses to you in as little as an hour. Contact us today to make your first appointment. We look forward to meeting you and taking care of all of your ocular needs. (this script is 1-1/2 minutes. After adding a short testimonial and a closing, the video ended up being just under 2 minutes)

Copyright 穢 2011 / Silver Dove Productions, LLC & M. Gier

Auto Mechanic Career Opportunities

The automotive industry continues is one of the largest and most important industries in the world and new technological advances are creating numerous career opportunities. This growth is being experienced through the automotive industry, and graduates of automotive training programs can expect to land jobs in:

• New Car Dealers


• Retail Automotive Repair Facilities


• Custom and specialty shops


• Heavy Duty Truck Repair Facilities


• Organizations with Fleet Vehicles


• Owning your Own Automotive Repair or Specialty Shop


• Auto and Truck Rental Companies


• Insurance Companies


• Warehouse Distributors


• RV Dealers


• Marine Dealers


• Motor sport Dealers

Candidates with this particular skill set and training can expect to qualify for a varied number of positions. Auto mechanic entry-level positions may include Automotive Detailer, Tire Installer, Lube Specialist, Maintenance Technician and Apprentice Brake and Alignment Specialist.

However, skilled auto mechanics may also have a vast array of auto mechanic advancement opportunities, including positions as muffler specialists, front end technicians, electrical specialists, engine technicians and much more, including:

• Fuel Specialist


• Tune Up Technician


• Diagnostician


• Emissions Specialist


• Transmission Specialist


• Hybrid and Fuel Cell Technician


• Performance Specialist


• Automotive Service Technician


• Journeyman Mechanic


• Service Manager


• Assistant Manager


• Shop Foreman


• Shop Manager or Owner

Auto Mechanics are usually paid hourly, but some are guaranteed a minimum weekly salary. Some repair shops also offer commission incentives and performance bonuses to make this basic auto mechanic salary even more attractive. Automotive Service Technicians earn between $45,000 and 70,000 per year plus benefits on average

On a day-to-day basis, auto mechanics can:

• Inspect, test, and diagnose faulty operations and estimate repair costs.


• Work on mechanical and electronic components of automobiles often using computerized diagnostic equipment, manufacturers' specifications, and manuals. This work includes most vehicle systems, such as fuel, brake, steering and suspension systems, transmission, differentials, drive axles and shafts, emission control and exhaust systems, engines, and electrical, cooling and climate control systems. Some mechanics specialize in one or more of these systems.


• Dismantle, repair, or replace worn or damaged parts.


• Weld metal parts.


• Reassemble, adjust, and test the repaired mechanism.


• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance services such as oil changes, lubrications and tune ups.


• Inspect the completed work and test that the vehicle's performance meets required standards; take the vehicle for a test drive.


• Communicate with customers about what has been done and why, and advise customers on general vehicle conditions and future repair requirements.

If you're passionate about cars, this can be a dream come true. Imagine earning a good living while doing something you love - working on cars!

Tips for Choosing the Right Auto Repair Services for Your Vehicle

If you are concerned about the poor show of your car lately, it is time to get it serviced at a dependable auto repair services shop. Automotive repair is a habitual maintenance practice procedure which is necessary for longer lifespan of any automobile. It is also a huge expense and with the increasing age of the automobile, the repairs requirements also increase. There are different options for auto repair in every place but selecting one depends on the category of vehicle owned as well as the closeness of the repair shop to your place.

Car repair is also reliant on seasons. For example, during the summer season, the engine has to be taken care of, specially if you are making plans to go for a road trip. Going in for a full service auto repair is a good decision to undertake in such a state to avert any problems during the trip. All car owners should also be conscious of certain small problems connected to their vehicle which can be effortlessly fixed by themselves whenever required.

It is sensible to start finding an auto repair shop when you buy a car as one never can say when the need might be there. Here are some tips to find steadfast auto repair services:

• One of the finest and most trustworthy options of getting an auto repair services is by asking friends and colleagues for such places. If they have the knowledge of getting first-class service frequently, it can be a great selection to choose.

• The auto repair shop must have qualified experts to undertake the repair and maintenance with no difficulty. A testimony of high quality is the relationship of the repair shop with AA, NAPA Autocare, ASP or Parts Plus. This organization makes sure that the repair shop has been subjected to high scrutiny of service and also has many satisfied clients.

• The ambiance of a repair shop is also vital. One can also take response from customers at the shop about the service given by the professionals and how content they are.

• Check out if the shop has professionals with certification like ASP, Delco or certification from manufacturers like Toyota, Ford, and GM. This shows how good they are in their job and service provided. This also indicated that they are acquainted with the new technology which is actually a sign of brilliance.

• Also, it is not essential that a bigger repair shop will be superior than a smaller one. Always search for prices in every shop you find out about because prices are usually close in any area.

• Look for newest equipments in the repair shop. Without a well equipped shop, complete repair cannot be given. This is even more essential if you own the most recent model of car.

Maintenance and auto repair services are very vital for any car. Although they may be tricky to pay at times, they are priceless when it comes to keeping the good health of your vehicle.

How Does Windshield Repair Work? - Auto Glass Repairs Explained

Broken windshields can be a major pain. From chips and cracks to complete spiderwebs, damaged automotive glass is a serious issue no matter the extent of the problem. That's because even tiny dings and splits in your windshield can grow into vision-obscuring messes. However, windshield replacement isn't the only solution when you have damaged auto glass. Smaller flaws can actually be repaired invisibly to restore both strength and an unobstructed view to your windshield. Here's how it works.

The first step to any windshield repair is an evaluation of the damage. The chip or crack should be examined for size and depth as well as location to determine whether it is a candidate for repair. Most flaws up to 6 inches long can be fixed with the typical resin auto glass repair. However, keep in mind that this type of solution only works when just the top layer of glass is fractured. Modern windshields are composed of two layers of glass with a rubber membrane laminated in between; the repair can only resolve issues with the first layer of glass, so if both layers are damaged, or you have a hole that goes all the way through, it's time to start learning about windshield replacement, not repairs. Also, some cracks that are around the perimeter of the windscreen can be difficult or impossible to correct, so make sure that the damage is located in a repairable place.

Once you've determined that the window glass can be repaired, the fix itself is relatively easy. Taking approximately 30 minutes, windshield chip repair is both simple and affordable. Using a special, sunlight-cured resin, the auto glass shop technician will inject the epoxy directly into the chip or crack using specialized tools. This completely fills the damage and ensures a smooth finish. The resin dries completely clear, helping the repair blend in to the surrounding windshield and almost totally hiding where the problem was. Natural sunlight dries the windshield crack repair to a waterproof, strong state that reinforces the windscreen and dependably prevents the crack or chip from ever spreading. Windshield glass repair offers a reliable solution for both sturdiness and aesthetics.

Windshield repairs are also super convenient, as most auto glass shops can actually come to you. Because the resin cures in sunlight and the special tools used to apply it are quite portable, you won't have to take your car or truck into the shop to have it fixed. Instead, technicians can be sent to you for mobile glass repair right in your driveway or even your workplace's parking lot.

The best time to get a cracked windshield repaired is right now. Substantial research data shows that warm temperatures, cold temperatures, temperature shifts, and even rough road surfaces and speed bumps are all likely to exacerbate your car window glass's damage. Remember, windshield crack repair only works for fissures up to 6 inches long, so if you put off calling the auto glass shop, the crack may grow to the point where windshield replacement is your only option. Save yourself the hassle and the money by bringing in an auto glass repair pro today to take a look. Providing structural support and practically invisible performance, resin car window repairs can help get your windshield back to first-class condition quickly and affordably.

Auto Vehicle Care - The Importance of Full & Professional Diagnosis and Diagnostics

There are diagnosticians and there are diagnosticians when it comes to auto repair. Some of the times second best will just not do when it comes to say electrical problems on your vehicle and your local standard auto garage just will not do and you have to call in or visit a specialist or perhaps more in depth diagnostic auto repair shop in your area. Still in many cases it many not be that the auto repair shop with the great established name in your area (and generally a higher fee) is even better or more experienced than the smaller shop but rather that they either have more specialized and advanced tools or simply have the time to examine the problem thoroughly and fully with out distraction.

In other cases it may be simply that most of the variables and issues have been worked out before. Most of the workup has been done, a lot of frustration and frustrating time spent. The next person, mechanic of technician just has to start from square one once again, go though the paces and just do it once more time, to completion and fruition. Thus voila the problem is identified and thus solved. The last auto diagnostic person in is thus a hero.

Yet one might ask from the very beginning why is auto and engine diagnosis so important to begin with. It can be said that if any mechanic can not or does not know in essence how to find, locate and challenge automotive, engine and motor difficulties and problems then all in all you are wasting your and their time, money and effort. Its all money and time thrown down the drainpipe. Reliability is key. If you or your mechanic can not identify motor or engine problems you ultimately will have not solved the problem at hand fully, your vehicle will not be properly or fully repaired and ultimately neither you nor your family will have neither pleasant nor economical driving experience. Simple as that. Pleasant driving and motoring.