Business 13 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2025 Managing finances and motivating employees The Blend Podcast covers pay increases and employee engagement as the focus on keynote industry issues continues The latest episode of Garage Hive’s The Blend Podcast tackles a critical issue for independent garage owners: balancing pay increases with employee engagement and business sustainability. With national insurance and apprentice wage hikes set to take effect in April, host Mike Ruff is joined by Jennifer Webb, founder of HR Vitals, to explore how garages can manage these financial pressures while keeping staff motivated and committed. Webb said: “A pay rise is often triggered by fear of losing staff or a desire to reward loyalty, but too many garage businesses lack structured career plans. “Garage owners should take a proactive approach, mapping out where they want their business to be in two years and identifying how each employee contributes to that goal. “Instead of reacting to industry pay trends, create clear development paths, show staff what skills they need to progress and how their efforts will be rewarded. This structure not only retains talent but also makes garages more attractive to new recruits.” Available on all major podcast players, Webb stresses the importance of providing employees with clear progression routes, linking pay increases to skill development and business growth. She recommends regular one-onone meetings, transparent career discussions, and structured training programs to enhance engagement and reduce turnover. “This episode is a must-listen,” said Ruff. “Jen shares game-changing advice on planning ahead, keeping your team motivated, and making pay increases work for your business, not just reacting to industry pressures. “Search for The Blend Podcast in your usual player and subscribe so you never miss an episode.” You can also visit https://youtu. be/0Xi_72QuTDA to watch the episode on YouTube. The Blend’s annual conference for independent garages in the UK and Ireland takes place on Saturday, October 18 at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham. Tickets are available at https://www. theblend.events/ for a discounted ‘early bird’ rate of £125 +VAT for a limited time. As a not-for-profit event, any surplus funds generated after covering costs will be donated to automotive industry charity Ben.
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