Adept at multi-tasking and performing a wide range of marketing tasks, as well as accepting all challenges that come her way, Virginia Kuiper is already excelling as our newest Executive Marketing Assistant at Mike’s Auto Body. She presently works out of our Concord VDM under the direction of Marketing Manager Dane Dearlove and IT Director Rick Rehm.

Virginia was hired at Mike’s more than three years ago as a Customer Service Representative (CSR) working out of our Pittsburg Call Center. A graduate of Liberty Adult Community Education Center in Brentwood, Virginia, 22, was a restaurant hostess, server and held various retail jobs before working part-time as a pizza delivery person while looking for permanent employment.

One night, Virginia luckily delivered a pizza to our CSR Director Jennifer Rainey-Tebbett, and the rest is history. “I started babysitting for Jennifer and one day she suggested that I apply for a CSR position,” Virginia said. “I interviewed and got the job, which was exciting!”

After going through the CSR training and learning on the job, Virginia used her communication skills and engaging personality to placate customers who were in an accident. A CSR at Mike’s Auto Body is a whole lot more than just a front desk person answering the phones. They represent the backbone of any shop’s daily operations; a mixture of administrator, teacher, customer liaison, paperwork expert, the face of the company and the very first person that most clients will interact with.

“A good CSR makes it all look easy, but it’s not, and only certain people can do it correctly because it involves so many skills,” Mike’s Compliance Manager Jennifer Harriman said. “To be an effective CSR, you have to be diplomatic and work well with a lot of different people. When a customer comes into one of our locations, they are usually not in the greatest mood, so de-compressing the situation and easing them through the process is a huge part of the job.”

At the beginning of the year, when Virginia was asked to become the company’s Executive Marketing Assistant, she responded promptly with an emphatic yes. “This is something I’ve wanted to do for quite some time because Mike’s is an incredible company and an amazing employer,” she said. “I’m learning more and more every day here, and I love it.”

Virginia’s duties as an Executive Marketing Assistant include monitoring and creating new posts for the company’s social media (primarily Facebook); coordinating e-touch reports; creates Excel reports concerning several aspects of the company, including financials and car counts, setting up meetings; changing information on the company’s web site and helping out when it comes to our Continued Education (CE) classes.

“I helped to coordinate the Kick-Off Meeting earlier this year, by working with a caterer and vendors as well as Office Managers and Facility Managers and I’ll be doing the same when we enter our Benevolence Program’s season,” Virginia said. “In addition, my goal is to become a certified Instructor for our CE classes, something that I’m looking forward to.”

Dane Dearlove has already seen some great things from Virginia. “She has brought youthful enthusiasm and an important change of perspective to our marketing team, and as well our IT team,” he said. “She will continue to learn more and more of the operational aspect of our organization, as she continues her transition from being an asset to our Call Center to an asset for our corporate team. It is always a compliment to any organization to be able promote within the company.”

When she isn’t working at Mike’s Virginia has a wide range of hobbies and interests. She likes anime and video games and enjoys hanging out with her friends. She also likes collecting popular bobbleheads called Funko Pops, especially from one of her favorite shows, My Hero Academia. Virginia also enjoys dressing up like some of her favorite characters and attends Comi-Con, Anime Expo and other comic and video game conventions. She also enjoys good restaurants, and some of her favorite things to eat are crepes and seafood, just to name a few.

Virginia is taking on more and more responsibility as she grows as our Executive Marketing Assistant and is happy to accept any challenge that comes her way. She enjoys working with Dane and Rick because she’s able to tap into their many years of knowledge and experience, she said. “I’m grateful for this opportunity and looking forward to a bright future at Mike’s Auto Body.”

 

 

 

 

 

Owner Dan Mazzoncini at Dan’s Glass, Inc. in Concord, CA has a long and mutually satisfying relationship, both personal and professional, with Mike’s Auto Body and the Rose family that started way back in 1981. With nine employees and a fleet of six trucks, Dan’s Glass does commercial, residential and automotive glass installation and repair in most of the cities where Mike’s has locations.

Celebrating its 40-year anniversary this summer, Dan’s Glass has installed, replaced or repaired glass at nearly all of Mike’s Auto Body’s locations at one time or another. The window replacement team at Dan’s Glass specializes in storefront and commercial window glass replacements, but automotive glass is also a significant portion of its workload.

Dan met Mike Rose in 1981 through a mutual friend who was a painter and the two began working together almost immediately. At that time, Mike had only one location on Fremont Street in Concord and now the company has 16 locations with two in Concord and Walnut Creek and one in Lafayette, Pittsburg, Antioch, Alameda, Brentwood, Richmond, Fairfield, Napa, San Ramon, Fremont and Vallejo. As the business has grown, Dan’s Glass has been there to provide exemplary customer service every step of the way.

If you visit the Mike’s in Antioch location any time soon, take a look at all of the glass and its unique design, which was all done by Dan’s Glass. “Our goal was to give Antioch that ‘wow factor’, with 1/2-inch tempered glass throughout,” Dan said. “All you’re seeing is glass and that attracts a fair amount of attention. We also installed a large Herculite glass door and installed the water feature in the reception area.”

When it comes to auto glass installation and repair services for Mike’s Auto Body, Dan’s Glass replaces or repairs windows and windshields for vehicles that Mike’s are fixing after a collision or other mishap. This includes chip repair–a cutting-edge process where a clear resin is injected into a window’s crack to prevent it from spreading. Dan’s also performs R & R (Remove and Replace) where windshields are removed while the car is painted and then subsequently re-installed.

In the old days, Dan’s could replace a windshield without worrying about all of the many electronic systems connected to it, but those have changed over time, Dan explained. “These newer vehicles, especially Mercedes and BMW, are so technically advanced that we have to deal with things like condensation sensors, lane departure systems, alarms, crash avoidance systems and even infrared reflective windshield glass.”

In order to succeed in the highly competitive glass industry, Dan’s has to stress training and technical aptitude with all of his glass technicians. “I like doing a good job and satisfying my customers. When we get a 5-star Yelp review, it really makes our day, because that is what we’re trying to do all the time.”

When Dan Mazzoncini isn’t running his company, he works on his collection of 45 motorcycles (all Kawasaki’s) and three classic cars, including two Camaro’s and a 1967 Corvette.

The Founder and Owner of Mike’s Auto Body Mike Rose values his company’s long-term relationship and Dan’s Glass, “Dan’s been doing our work for 30+ years and Dan’s Glass is a very professional business that stands behind whatever they do, and that’s why we always highly recommend Dan’s,” he said.

Dan’s Glass, Inc.

1325 Galindo Street

Concord, CA 94520

(925) 827-4173

 

 

With a willingness to do whatever it takes and the dedication that’s needed to be the best, Jennifer Harriman has impressed her fellow employees, customers and associates at Mike’s Auto Body from day one.

Twenty-one years ago she was hired, and although her role and job title have changed over the years, Jennifer is an important and integral part of the team at Mike’s. She has seen the company grow from one location to 16 and witnessed our journey to success every step of the way. To be the best in the collision repair industry, we need top people and Jennifer fits the bill in every way imaginable.

Back in 1998, Jennifer was hired as a CSR for several years before being promoted to Office Manager. Within the last five years, she added the title Property Manager to all of the other things she does from the company, but now focuses primarily on compliance. “When I first started at Mike’s, we had only one location and was preparing to open the second one in Walnut Creek,” she said. “I did it all during the first few years–parts procurement, human resources, shuttle driver, even washing cars–and that has helped me to understand the big picture here, which has proven to be invaluable.”

As the company’s Compliance Manager, Jennifer manages 30 Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) and 16 Office Managers with the goal of guiding and mentoring each and every one. It’s a huge undertaking and the hours can be long in some cases, but she loves her job and isn’t afraid to take on every challenge that she encounters with enthusiasm.

This means that Jennifer has to be flexible, detail-oriented and highly efficient to keep things running smoothly. “Every day here is different, and I like the variety,” she said. “As a large company, we strive for uniformity, which means that we have to work smarter than harder, but we are also always open to fresh ideas from our people that can help the company.”

With so many locations and employees, consistency and uniformity company-wide is important, Jennifer explained.”We’ve created a system that addresses everything and it’s all in a binder that everyone can refer to if they have questions or concerns. We begin visiting every location Sept.-Dec. to sit down with our managers and determine what works and how we can be better.”

By providing comprehensive and ongoing training, Jennifer and her team make sure that each Manager and CSR is on the same page and knows their job inside and out. “Every new hire gets three full days of training and then we’re constantly working with them as they grow within the position. We show them how we do things the Mike’s way, and want them to know the how and why.”

When she isn’t wearing numerous hats at Mike’s, Jennifer maintains a busy family life, consisting of her husband Mike and three children. Her oldest is her stepdaughter Tayler, 26, who works as the Adminsitrative Assistant to the President at the Academy of Arts & Sciences in San Francisco and enjoys music and roller skating.

Her middle child is Tommy, 18, who is working to be an electrician and loves dirt biking, snowboarding and working on his truck.

Her youngest, Trevor, 13, wants to be a successful entrepreneur and business owner down the road. He is in the 8th grade and will be attending Liberty High School in Brentwood in the Fall, and plays AAU basketball and enjoys snowboarding.

 Jennifer’s husband Mike works for a company that makes robotic inspection equipment and Jennifer’s mom Robin worked for Mike’s for the past 25 years before retiring recently.

When Jennifer is not working or running the family unit, she enjoys yoga, she said. “It keeps me focused on living a healthy life and I love the stretching after sitting all day. I joined a local yoga studio here in Brentwood and I love it. I also enjoy taking my dog for a walk on the local trails and being outdoors and trying new recipes on Pinterest.”

How does she do it all and keep her sanity? “It’s all about planning and preparation,” Jennifer said. “That means I have to make a lot of lists and luckily I get a lot of help from my husband and my mother. I have to be very organized, which means maintaining and updating calendars all the time. We stress preparing healthy meals and always take the time to help all of our kids when they need our guidance and advice.”

Thanks Jennifer Harriman for playing a major role here at Mike’s Auto Body and emulating our company’s motto every day, “One Team, One Mission”.

With all of the rain and wind hitting the Bay Area this week, all of us at Mike’s Auto Body would like to share this helpful safety information with you.

Driving in conditions that involve strong or heavy wind and rain may not seem like the most pressing safety concern for many drivers, but our safety professionals know that driving in any type of severe weather can significantly increase your risk and potential for a dangerous situation for you, your family and other drivers. Remember that severe weather demands your undivided attention, so be sure to reduce any possible distractions by turning the radio down or turning off that phone to keep your attention fully on the road. Keep in mind that sometimes the best driving decision you can make is to stay off the road completely until the weather clears.

Driving in Heavy Winds

Wind may seem like a minor risk, but this weather condition deserves special consideration from drivers. Strong wind can occur just about anywhere, but it can be more common in wide open spaces. Areas for concern also include highway overpasses, tunnels and ‘road cuts’ through mountainous areas that can act as funnels for wind. The following tips can help keep you on the road and safe if you encounter heavy winds.

1. Anticipate gusts. Take special care when driving through areas prone to strong winds or when weather reports predict severe weather.

2. Notice larger vehicles. Be aware of large vehicles on the road such as tractor-trailers and recreational vehicles. They are more susceptible to high winds and drivers may have difficulties staying in their lanes.

3. Keep a firm grip on the wheel. Keep both hands on the wheel in case the wind begins to move your vehicle, especially if you are driving a large vehicle or towing a trailer.

Driving in Heavy Rain

In addition to the potentially poor visibility that accompanies most heavy rain, drivers should be ready to protect themselves against hydroplaning. Hydroplaning can occur when a vehicle is traveling too fast in heavy rain conditions, causing the vehicle’s tires to travel on a thin layer of water rather than grip the surface of the road. This has the potential to make steering and braking difficult and could even lead to losing control of your vehicle. Follow these tips to help you stay safe while driving in heavy rain.

1. Take your time. Slowing down is the only way to keep your vehicle from hydroplaning. Also remember that one of the most dangerous times to drive is soon after it begins to rain, as oils on roadway make for slick conditions. Waiting a few minutes, rather than rushing to your destination, can be a safer plan when it is raining.

2. Turn your lights on. Turn your headlights on to help other vehicles see you. Many states require the use of headlights during rain, even in broad daylight.

3. Give other vehicles more space. Add 1-2 extra seconds of following time in the rain, which gives you and the cars behind you more time to react to traffic.

Sources: Wikipedia and NHTSA

On December 12th, Christmas came a little early for five deserving families as Mike’s Auto Body and local companies worked together to make life a little easier for those less fortunate. This year’s slogan was “A Gift of Charity Wrapped in Dignity” as Mike’s Auto Body commemorated the donation 79 cars since 2000 through its nationally acclaimed Benevolence Program.

Each year the collision repair industry as a whole comes across cars that are “written off” by either the owner or the insurance company.  Often times these are older vehicles that just need some mechanical and body work to get them back on the road and perfectly safe to drive. Because we believe these cars are going to waste when there are people who really need them, we decided to do something about it.

Mike’s Auto Body’s Benevolence Program is a community relations program designed to generate goodwill at the local level while improving and promoting the image of the collision repair industry whose mission is to “Present refurbished “new” used cars to deserving individuals or organizations during the holiday season.” 

CSAA Insurance Group, Farmers Insurance, State Farm Insurance, Liberty/Safeco Insurance and Enterprise Rent A Car participated this year in the December presentation by donating “written off” vehicles that were given away to five deserving families.

200 people attended the vehicle presentations at Mike’s Auto Body’s ADAC facility in Antioch on a day filled with sunshine and the Christmas spirit. The day always starts with a hearty welcome from Benevolence Ambassador Sal Contreras followed by with an invocation by Pastor Felix Golden. Then there was a flag presentation from the Mt. Diablo JROTC Color Guard; America the Beautiful was presented by Bagpiper Kristopher Muse and then Sandie Browne sang the National Anthem. Then Mike’s Auto Body’s Director of Marketing Dane Dearlove spoke about “Who We Are” and how Mike’s continues to give back to the community, followed by welcoming remarks from Antioch’s Mayor Sean Wright before the five car presentations took place.

Another highlight of the day was when the Contra Costa Firefighters of Antioch’s Station 81 led by Captain Jeff Landis, delivered Santa to the presentation in their fire engine, who then gave brand new bicycles and helmets to the children. As always, local insurance agents filled all the vehicles with gifts and toys for the families.

Next, the Rose family (Ragen, Brennan and Mike), received a Congressional Certificate of Recognition by Congressman Jerry McNerney’s Field Representative Janeesha Jones, followed by closing remarks from Contreras. “A special thank you goes out to our employees and business partners who gave their time, talents and donations to make all this happen.”

This year’s December five recipients included:

·         A single mother with two daughters, Patricia Castellanos, received a 2013 Nissan Rogue that was donated by State Farm; sponsored by Sparkpoint Brighter Beginnings in Bay Point; re-furbished by the crew at Mike’s Pittsburg location and presented by State Farm’s Mike Stoiber.

·         24-year-old Ally Jenkins received a 2016 Toyota Prius that was donated by Safeco/Liberty; sponsored by Cortona Park Senior Living Community; re-furbished by the crew at Mike’s San Ramon location and presented by Safeco/Liberty’s Tom Donahue.

·         A single mother Erika Quinteros received a 2018 Ford Fusion that was donated by Enterprise Rent A Car; sponsored by California Promise Innovation, Contra Costa College; refurbished by the crew at Mike’s location in Antioch and presented by Enterprise’s Kelly Hunt.

·         A single mother Maria Barraza received a 2014 Honda Civic that was donated by Farmers; sponsored by the Hemophilia Foundation of Northern California; re-furbished by the crew at Mike’s North Broadway location and presented by District Manager Dan Brown from Farmers.

·         A single mother/grandmother JoAnn Segura received a 2015 Toyota from CSAA, sponsored by the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County; re-furbished by the crew at Mike’s Fremont Street location and presented by CSAA’s Victor Cordon.

“We feel very fortunate to be involved with such a wonderful program and are very excited to be able to give back to the community that has supported us for the past 46 years,” Owner of Mike’s Auto Body Mike Rose said. “Being in this business for that long, repairing the vehicles is the easy part, having to decide on a recipient is the part that’s hard.  After receiving hundreds of applications over the years and reading the heartbreaking stories, we only wish that we could do more.  But hopefully with increased publicity of our Benevolence Program other shops will adopt a similar program of their own.”