Today’s consumer journey begins on the Internet. Long before customers set foot in your showroom, they’re going to search for your dealership on the Web—and what they find there will establish their first impression of your company. If you want to translate those Google searches into actual foot traffic, of course, you need those first impressions to be positive ones.
In other words, your used car dealership needs to have a positive online reputation—and there are a few steps you can take to make that happen. Here are some recommendations from the Get My Auto team.
Make Sure You Have a Professional Website
First and foremost, you need a central online hub that conveys your professionalism and establishes trust. Some basic considerations include:
- Ensuring your website loads quickly on all devices and browser types.
- Including some basic information about your dealership’s expertise/history.
- Adding some testimonials and reviews from previous customers.
- Investing in a sleek and modern design.
- Updating your website regularly to keep its content fresh.
The bottom line: You want a website that shows off your business in all its robustness and respectability.
Manage Your Online Reviews
Another key consideration in your dealership’s online reputation? Online reviews. There are a few things you can do to ensure a decent balance of positive reviews:
- Actively monitor your Google and Facebook reviews, and be aware of what people are saying about your dealership.
- Email your best/most loyal buyers and ask them to take a moment and offer you feedback.
- Take the time to thank buyers who leave good reviews.
- Show customer service to the people who leave bad reviews, and ask how you can make things right.
You can’t guarantee against bad reviews, but you can work to keep them positive on the whole.
Be Active on Social Media
While we recommend paid social media ads—especially on Facebook—organic content shares can be just as critical for building an online reputation. Make sure that you:
- Post consistently; use an editorial calendar to plan ahead.
- Share information that helps/educates the end user.
- Take the time to respond to anyone who asks questions or leaves comments on social media.
- Use your social media accounts to promote your company blog posts and other digital assets.
Improve Your Dealership’s Online Image
Used car dealers need to have a positive online reputation if they wish to remain competitive. Use these tips to bolster your image, and establish your dealership as the dealership of choice among buyers.
Learn more about effectively marketing your used car dealership. Reach out to Get My Auto’s marketing experts today!