Embark on a journey through the financial intricacies of body shop estimating with the guidance of industry sage, Mark Passmore. Unlock the secrets to boosting your earning potential in this competitive field as Mark, my father-in-law and mentor, lays bare the pathway to climbing from starter salaries in the $40,000 range to commanding figures that can exceed $70,000 with time and finesse. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on how embodying confidence and adaptability can make or break your job prospects and salary negotiations.

Venture further into the realm of compensation with a deep dive into the salary structures that govern the lives of body shop estimators. From understanding the baseline of entry-level wages to the allure of the six-figure echelons, we explore the myriad pay models that seasoned professionals navigate. Discover how salary plus commission, hourly wages, and straight salary can shape your career trajectory, and why strong negotiation skills are your ticket to leaving a lasting impression on future employers. Mark and I scrutinize these models alongside the per-piece payment method, delivering a comprehensive portrait of the remuneration landscape.

The final chapter of our discussion turns the spotlight on career transitions within the auto repair industry, particularly for those shifting from independent adjuster or appraiser roles to becoming body shop estimators. We outline the support systems and training resources available for those ready to pivot their career path. With Mark Passmore's expert commentary, we traverse the nuances of job placement, upskilling, and aligning career moves with your professional goals. Whether you're just turning the ignition or shifting gears in your auto estimating career, this episode is your roadmap to success.

Learn why becoming a body shop estimator may be a great decision in your auto estimating career.

While becoming an independent adjuster or appraiser is the perfect career fit for many, others may enjoy working at a shop better.

Some people may find that using their skill to write auto damage estimates as a collision estimator may be a better fit for them in their life.

Find out why with Chris Stanley's mentor, Mark Passmore, Collision Estimator Trainer and Mentor at IA Path.

Ever wondered how to decode the chaos of hail season into a successful stint as an independent adjuster?

This episode is your essential guide to mastering hailstorm tracking and turning severe weather into promising job opportunities. With my firsthand experience and some nifty tools like CoreLogic and Stormersite.com, you'll learn how to pick out the hail events that scream potential work and those that are just nature's bluster.

We'll explore why storms rated at level four or five are the ones to watch and how to scrutinize the data for prime deployment areas. Timing and location can be everything when it comes to evaluating the impact of a hailstorm.

I'll also share personal anecdotes on interpreting the size of hail and its effects on property and auto claims. Remember to stay connected with us on LinkedIn where we share real-time updates and tips on seizing these atmospheric opportunities. Tune in for an episode packed with practical advice that could be the silver lining to the next set of storm clouds.

LINKS MENTIONED
Corelogic - https://www.wvs.corelogic.com/wvs-ui/
Stormersite - https://www.stormersite.com/
NOAA Hail Prediction - https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/exper/day4-8/