No One's Anger Starts at 100 [E196]

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Key Discussion Points:
Two Types of Angry People

Explosive: Outwardly aggressive (e.g., yelling at a cashier).
Implosive: Bottled-up anger that can lead to extreme reactions (e.g., the quiet cashier who "snaps").
No One Starts at 100% Anger

Anger escalates in stages—people don’t go from 0 to 100 instantly.
Triggers (work stress, home life, past trauma) compound over time.
Personal Reflection: Parenting & ADHD

Matt shares struggles with his son’s ADHD and his own reactive anger.
Realization: Frustration often stemmed from unrealistic expectations, not the child’s behavior.
Lesson: Awareness is key—but applying knowledge is harder than reciting it.
Handling Anger in the Workplace

For Leaders/Co-workers:
Approach outbursts with curiosity, not defensiveness.
Validate feelings without justifying bad behavior.
Ask: "What else is going on?" (e.g., home stress, financial fears).
For Customers:
High-conflict clients may already be at "50%" before they walk in.
Respond with calm energy, active listening, and empathy.
Example: "I understand why you’re scared. It’s hard to trust when you’re unsure."
De-escalation Tactics

Mirroring: Match the energy level you want (e.g., stay calm to diffuse rage).
Validation: Acknowledge emotions without agreeing to unreasonable demands.
Safety First: Remove yourself or others if the situation escalates dangerously.
Why This Matters in the Aftermarket

Most customer outbursts are rooted in fear (e.g., being ripped off, losing control).
A thoughtful response can turn a raging customer into a loyal one—or reveal irreconcilable differences.
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

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Contact Information

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The Aftermarket Radio Network

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.