Switching from a Normal Body Shop to a Classic Car Shop
Making the switch from a typical body shop to a classic or exotic car restoration shop can be a rewarding career move. So, let’s dive into how to switch from normal body shop to a classic car shop.
Understanding What Classic Car Shops Look For
The Three Core Technician Roles
Classic car shops generally seek three types of technicians:
- The Everything Guy: Handles a wide range of tasks from caliper repairs to transmission removal.
- The Specialist: A master mechanic specializing in specific tasks, such as Ferrari engines.
- The Apprentice: Technicians with 1-2 years of experience looking to learn and grow in the field.
Assess your past experience to determine which of these roles you best fit into. If you want to become an apprentice, check out how to get an apprenticeship!
Step 1: Showcasing Your Experience
Building a Robust Portfolio
Simply sending a resume full of dealership work won’t suffice. You need a robust portfolio that showcases your work. Classic Car Jobs makes this easy. Here’s what a great profile includes:
- Profile Picture: A clear, professional photo.
- Project Links: Include links to projects you’ve worked on. (you can use your Instagram or Facebook profile for this!)
- Professional Summary: A concise, impactful introduction.
Example: “My name is John, I’m a dedicated and skilled classic Italian car mechanic with four years of hands-on experience working on a variety of pre-1975 Italian vehicles.”
Even if your projects aren’t as in-depth, you can use Instagram or Facebook carousel posts to showcase your work and link to them in your portfolio.
Highlight Your Skills and Experience
Detail your relevant experience and core skills. Mention specific projects, the types of cars you’ve worked on, and any special techniques you’ve mastered. Emphasize your passion for classic cars and your commitment to high-quality work.
Step 2: The Job Search
Using Classic Car Jobs
Start your search on Classic Car Jobs. You can narrow down your search by the type of car you want to work on. Don’t hesitate to apply to jobs in different cities or states. Many shops are open to relocation assistance if you have the right skills.
When you find a job you like, click apply and include a short, personalized message:
Example: “Hey 1600 Veloce Team, I’d love to join your shop as an apprentice level mechanic. I have recently graduated from Lincoln Tech with a focus on classic car maintenance. Your shop services a wide variety of cars that I’d love to kick off my career working on (I especially like the 72 Fiat 500L you worked on!). I am dedicated, hard working, and always show up early. Thank you for your consideration!”
Bonus Tip
Call or email the shop after applying to express your enthusiasm and confirm your application. This can help you stand out in a busy shop. Here’s how you can learn to followup with employers!
Step 3: Preparing for Interviews
Research the Shop
Before your interview, research the shop’s history, the types of cars they work on, and their restoration techniques. Understanding their specialty can help you tailor your answers and demonstrate your interest.
Practice Common Interview Questions
Prepare for common interview questions such as:
- What attracted you to classic car restoration?
- Can you describe a challenging restoration project you’ve worked on?
- How do you handle sourcing rare parts?
- What techniques do you use to ensure authenticity in your restorations?
Check out our full post on how to prepare for a classic car shop interview!
Showcase Your Passion and Skills
During the interview, highlight your passion for classic cars and your hands-on experience. Use specific examples from your portfolio to illustrate your skills and dedication.
That’s How to Switch from Normal Body Shop to a Classic Car Shop!
Switching from a normal body shop to a classic car shop requires preparation and a strategic approach. By understanding what classic car shops are looking for, showcasing your experience effectively, and using platforms like Classic Car Jobs, you can make a successful transition and start a rewarding career working on classic and exotic cars.
For more tips and job opportunities in the classic car industry, visit Classic Car Jobs. Stay tuned for more videos and blog posts on this topic!