Jim Hudson Automotive Group prides themselves on prioritizing employees, customers, and the community. With established values, they have experienced rapid growth and recognize the importance of supporting their current technicians, while attracting new talent through transparency—showcasing their work environment and benefits to draw in top candidates who align with their core values.
Discover how Jim Hudson Chevrolet, a growing dealership within Jim Hudson Automotive Group, partnered with WrenchWay to enhance their outreach in the automotive industry, showcase their benefits and culture, and, ultimately, attract and hire technicians.
Growing Dealership that Values Technicians
Jim Hudson Chevrolet has been a staple in the automotive sector for over 44 years. With a team of 17 technicians, the dealership consistently achieves 20-25% annual growth, largely in thanks to their team and the owner’s active support for the staff.
The dealership provides solid benefits, including unique elements like time-and-a-half pay for warranty work and engaging team activities like go-karting and family events. As one technician put it, they offer “blue-collar workers with white-collar benefits.”
A supportive culture is also a priority at Jim Hudson Chevrolet. Experienced GM technicians are on staff to help newer technicians develop their skills and advance in their careers. With low turnover among service advisors and a focus on mentorship, the dealership demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting their technicians.
Partnering with WrenchWay to Hire Technicians
With an expanding dealership comes the need for more technicians. However, it’s not just about filling positions; it’s about finding the right person for the right role.
As Mike Hermelin, Service Manager of Jim Hudson Chevrolet, states, “As our customer base grows, so does our need for good technicians. I look for people who want to join our team because of what we have to offer.”
While searching online, Hermelin discovered WrenchWay Top Shop Memberships to aid in recruiting technicians and other auto and diesel staff, while enhancing the shop’s visibility.
“WrenchWay is a website that gives our dealership more visibility in my market. I do think it’s a company that is working to grow its presence by trying out different things like working with schools. Plus, trying to help the managers with ideas and suggestions on how to market their shop to attract technicians.”
Mike Hermelin, Service Manager of Jim Hudson Chevrolet
The reach and transparency that WrenchWay Top Shops provides is unmatched among traditional recruiting tools for technicians. Technicians appreciate the ability to see key details about each shop’s pay, benefits, hiring process, work environment, and more before applying. WrenchWay allows shops to showcase these essential details, along with pictures and videos, in an easy, mobile-friendly way.
“I try to be as transparent as possible because if you’re transparent, then you’re going to get a lot more activity than if you have things hidden,” explains Hermelin.
Hiring Apprentices to Grow With Shop
With the help of WrenchWay, Jim Hudson Chevrolet has been able to successfully attract and hire several technicians, including a few student/apprentice-level technicians who are committed to staying on after graduation.
Hiring young technicians who can grow with the shop has numerous benefits for the Jim Hudson team. While these students may be less experienced than seasoned technicians, investing in their development is a long-term gain. Young hires bring fresh perspectives and a willingness to learn, which can foster innovation and adaptability within the team. Over time, they can become valuable assets, contributing to the dealership’s continued success.
Showcase Your Shop & Attract Technicians with WrenchWay
Want to stand out among the thousands of dealerships and shops trying to attract and hire technicians? Discover how WrenchWay can help you showcase what makes your shop a great place to work! Our team of industry experts will assist you in crafting an engaging Top Shop page to use in all of your recruiting efforts, just like Jim Hudson Automotive Group.
Contact WrenchWay Today—Learn more about our special discounts for independent shops and our 10-applicant guarantee!
