Foot traffic is a vital aspect of any successful car dealership. The more potential customers you have on your lot, the greater the opportunity is for sales. However, in today's competitive market and with digital technology changing the way that customers buy cars, attracting foot traffic can be a challenge.
EasyCars has put together a list of 8 proven and successful ways your dealership can increase foot traffic in 2023.
Let’s get into it.
1. Enhance Your Exterior Signage
First impressions matter, and your dealership's exterior signage plays a crucial role in attracting attention. Ensure that your signage is eye-catching, prominently displaying your dealership's name and logo. Use bold and vibrant colours that align with your brand identity. Additionally, consider installing digital signage that allows for dynamic and interactive displays, you may need to invest some money but having catchy signage will motivate customers to attend your dealership.
2. Leverage Online Listings and Directories
In today’s digital age, potential customers now turn to online platforms to research and locate car dealerships. Ensure that your dealership is listed on popular online directories and automotive websites. Optimise your listings with accurate and detailed information, including location, contact details, car inventory highlights, and any unique selling propositions. Regularly monitor and update these listings to stay current and stand out from the competition.
3. Develop a Strong Digital Presence
A strong online presence is essential for driving foot traffic to your dealership. The first key to that is having a strong dealer website. Ensure your dealership has and maintains an engaging website that showcases your current vehicle inventory and includes a user-friendly contact form. It is always best practice to implement different search engine optimisation techniques to improve your website's visibility in search engine results.
It is just as important to have and actively manage social media accounts to connect with potential customers and to promote your vehicles for sale. Top social media websites for car dealerships include Facebook, Instagram and recently Tik Tok. Having a strong digital presence will lead to better foot traffic at your dealership.
4. Implement Referral Programs
Happy customers can become valuable brand ambassadors for your dealership. Create a referral program that incentivises customers to refer friends and family to your dealership. Offer rewards such as discounts, gift cards, or exclusive dealership perks for successful referrals. By leveraging the power of word-of-mouth marketing, you can expand your customer base and attract new visitors to your dealership at a fraction of the cost.
5. Collaborate with Local Businesses
Forge partnerships with local businesses to expand your reach and attract a diverse audience. Establish mutually beneficial relationships by offering joint promotions, cross-promoting each other's products or services, or participate in community initiatives together. Collaborating with complementary businesses, such as auto repair shops or finance providers etc, can create a network of referrals and drive traffic to your dealership.
6. Online Advertising
Digital advertising platforms allow you to target specific demographics and reach a broader audience. Invest in online advertising campaigns that display your dealership's ads on popular websites, search engines, and social media platforms. Use compelling visuals, persuasive copy, and strong calls to action to entice potential customers to visit your dealership. Monitor and optimise your advertising campaigns regularly to ensure maximum effectiveness and return on investment.
7. Implement a Customer Loyalty Program
Building long-term relationships with customers is key to increasing foot traffic. Develop a customer loyalty program that rewards repeat visits and purchases. Offer exclusive benefits such as discounts on services, priority access to new vehicles that you may have, or special events.
Implement a points system where customers can accumulate points with each purchase and redeem them for rewards. This not only incentivises customers to return to your dealership but also encourages them to spread positive word-of-mouth about your business.
8. Enhance Your Online Reviews and Ratings
Online reviews and ratings heavily influence potential customers' decisions. Monitor and respond to customer reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, and automotive-specific websites. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and provide testimonials on your website or social media platforms.
Positive reviews act as social proof, building trust and credibility for your dealership. Address any negative reviews promptly and professionally to demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction. By maintaining a strong online reputation, you can attract more foot traffic to your dealership.
Final Word,
Increasing foot traffic to your dealership requires a combination of strategic tactics that leverage both online and offline channels. By employing these 8 effective strategies presented, your dealership can thrive in a competitive market and experience significant growth in foot traffic and sales.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article. To read more articles like this, please visit the EasyCars latest news page here.
About EasyCars,
EasyCars by Jeal is an Australian, web-based, dealer management system that automates the buying and selling of motor vehicles. Using the latest technologies, EasyCars removes frustrations experienced at the dealership and opens your doors for greater growth.
EasyCars features include Simple Stock Management, Automated Advertising, Integrated Accounting, Government Compliance, Business Reporting, Facebook Automotive Inventory Ads, Reviews Management, Dealership Websites and more.
To learn more about EasyCars Dealer Management System or to arrange a no-obligation free demo, contact us today on 1300 473 744 or submit the form below.