Utilizing social media and other internet platforms has become rather essential in the auto industry, and this trend will likely continue. A study conducted by Digital Air Strike found that car shoppers ranked social networks as more important than a dealer’s website when choosing which dealership to visit. The vast majority of shoppers say internet research, including social media and review sites, was the most helpful medium when selecting a car dealership. This is important to understand that car shoppers do not solely rely on your dealership website. More needs to be done online to maintain and improve sales.

Social selling is done by none other than the employees of the dealership. They are taking their sales approach through social media to maintain relationships and drive more sales. Given that, social selling is not creating ads or lead generation, (although leads will come from it). It is all about salespeople prospecting and maintaining stronger relationships with existing connections to sell more cars.

This can sound simple enough on paper, but adequately executing this strategy takes time, effort, and commitment. In case you are not sure where to start, try applying the following recommendations to implement better social selling at your dealership:

The first thing to do is create personal accounts on major social media platforms. This is no surprise that an overwhelming majority of car shoppers actively use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. The sales reps can use these platforms to connect with their clients to help build trust, closer relationships, and consistency that the car shopper would value in their car buying process. Not only are the salespeople creating content, but they also are on top of interacting with shoppers' interests and creating two-way conversations on these platforms. 

From this point, deciding what content you believe will be the best fitting for your clients is the next objective. Examples of this are posting car buying tips, current events and updates in the dealership and auto industry as a whole, promotions, and fun content to keep things exciting and engaging. All of these social media platforms can welcome more opportunities to showcase reviews and why clients are choosing your dealership over others. Remaining active and present on social media will be critical if you want to successfully implement this strategy. 

Interested in learning more? Contact us today to help get your dealership to the next level.