Interview with a repair shop president

Shawn Gillfilan is the president and CEO of Automotive Magic, a full-service auto repair shop in Kenvil, N.J. Shawn took a moment to share with CareerBuilder about his shop, his job, branching out into multiple locations, and the Ford F-150 Lightning.
CareerBuilder: What are the general responsibilities of your job?
Shawn Gillfilan: The general responsibilities of my job have been changing and becoming more demanding during our successful growth. When I started this company I was the only employee and everything was my responsibility. We have grown into a team of nine over the past nine years, and my responsibility now consists of coaching employees to the next level. I spend time setting goals for the company and look forward to where we will be in five years.
CB: What are the challenges of your job?
SG: The challenges of my job are handing over management responsibility to other members of the team. I realize that not everything can be done by one person. Currently we are really getting our systems and procedures fine tuned to allow us to branch out into multiple locations. It has been challenging getting the proper people on the bus and in the right seat to get things rolling at a greater speed. I have become more intrigued with individualization of employees and figuring out how people who are different can work together productively. I enjoy creating internal competition within the company by creating fun games to win by doing a great job and working efficiently.
CB: What are the most important lessons you have learned since you first started?
SG: The most important lessons I have learned since I first started my company is to settle for nothing but perfection. I had a period of time where I let employees get away with breaking policy with no recourse. That created a work environment that didn't flow very well. Policy and procedures for each area of the business are key to getting the results that you want. I also learned that trying to help an employee that doesn't want to change is a waste of time. There are plenty of willing people that appreciate the opportunity to grow themselves.
CB: What sort of interaction do you have with customers/clients?
SG: I enjoy interacting with our clients. I am always asking what could be done better, and what creates the "wow" factor for them when they come to our shop. I am a phone call away for any client that needs to talk to me. I enjoy helping clients with anything they need. I am usually out in the waiting room striking up conversation any chance I can.
CB: What car do you drive, and what is your dream car?
SG: I drive a slightly modified 1999 Ford F-150 Lightning. It generates 605 rear-wheel horsepower, and it just fits with the way I love to accelerate. I also have a 1998 Ford Explorer that I drive daily, as it is difficult to get all three of my daughters into the front seat of the Lightning. My dream car hasn't been made yet. You'll be able to tell the car where you want it to take you and how fast you want to get there. We here at Automotive Magic will be fixing vehicles when they are flying you to work, somewhat like the Jetsons!