An automotive service advisor, also known as a service writer, service manager, or customer service advisor, is an important role at any car dealership or auto repair shop. The service advisor serves as the main point of contact for customers bringing their vehicles in for maintenance or repairs. If you enjoy working with cars and customers, becoming an automotive service advisor may be the right career path for you. Here’s how to find the right automotive service advisor training.
Automotive Service Advisor Job Overview
Automotive service advisors are responsible for greeting customers, listening to concerns about their vehicles, evaluating problems, recommending repairs and maintenance, estimating costs, and ensuring overall customer satisfaction. A typical day involves multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment – speaking on the phone, writing up repair orders, communicating with technicians, contacting customers for approvals, and managing payments. Strong interpersonal, communications and organizational skills are key.
Skills You Need
Successful automotive service advisors require a blend of hard skills and soft skills, including:
- Basic mechanical knowledge of automobiles and common issues
- Ability to listen effectively to customers
- Clear communications skills
- Attention to detail when writing service estimates
- Proficiency with dealership management software
- Commitment to providing excellent customer service
How to Handle the Stress of the Job
The auto service advisor role can be demanding. Honed skills in time management, prioritization, stress management, and controlling emotions are essential. Exercising patience with frustrated customers is vital as well. Developing a strong relationship and open communications with the service manager and technicians helps too. Staying organized and asking questions when unsure can reduce anxiety. Make self-care a priority through proper rest, diet and exercise to manage the daily pressures.
Becoming an Automotive Service Advisor
There are several paths to becoming a service advisor, such as:
- Earning an associate or bachelor’s degree in auto repair or a related field
- Completing a vocational program in auto mechanics
- Working in an entry-level dealership position to learn the ropes
- Shadowing or interning with an experienced service advisor
- Studying to earn ASE certification in service consulting
Many employers provide on-the-job training too. High school diplomas are typically required at a minimum.
Ongoing Education and Automotive Service Advisor Training for Dealerships
Even once hired, continual learning and training is vital due to constantly evolving vehicle technologies. There are numerous online courses and in-person programs to boost specific skills and knowledge, but make sure to choose the one that fits as many of the criteria your dealership needs as possible.
Contact a Provider for Automotive Service Advisor Training
Interested in advancing your education to become an automotive service advisor? Contact one of the providers mentioned to learn about their program details and offerings. Investing in specialist training can help give you an edge in this competitive field while advancing your career.