Description

An owner is the chief investor in the business and responsible for all aspects, including sales, service, expense control, and profits. An owner sets the company standard through his/her leadership and integrity. The owner provides a comfortable and safe working environment, maintains all necessary licenses and certifications, may hire managers to oversee various operations, and monitors business performance.

 

Personal Characteristics and Skills

Must be a leader. Must enjoy working with people, working around cars and trucks, and be comfortable with leadership responsibilities. Must be able to build relationships with customers, employees, and the community. Good communication skills are essential. Must have self-confidence, enjoy learning, and pay close attention to detail.

 

Job Outlook

As the vehicle population increases and ages, accidents and mechanical breakdowns are inevitable. The need for prompt and efficient towing will continue to increase. Like other businesses, towing is subject to market conditions and technology advancements. As long as a good rate of return can be expected on this investment, a towing business can be rewarding in many ways.

 

Pre-Employment Education and Experience

Math, reading, science, and business management skills are necessary to understand and manage all the operations necessary in a towing business. A high school education is required with post-secondary education essential for success. Industry experience is preferred. A good understanding of vehicle construction, mechanics, and regulations are necessary to communicate effectively with both customers and employees.

 

Earnings

Dependent on sales, expenses, and debt, owners choose how to divide profits between personal income, debt retirement, and reinvestment. With a sizable investment at risk, there are possibilities of both losing money as well as realizing profits.

 

Career Path

An experienced tow truck operator is an ideal candidate from the technical side, but the business can be learned by the right person with good customer service and business management skills. Management experience could lead to other businesses, including mechanical repairs, collision repair, or detailing operations.

 

Continuing Education

Standard post-secondary business education is available through local or on-line colleges. Specific automotive management education is available through the Automotive Management Institute (AMI) and can result in the Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation.

 

 

 

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