In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for success in any industry. One of the most effective tools for boosting your dealerships online visibility and acquiring new customers is Google My Business.
EasyCars has put together the complete guide on how your car dealership in Australia can use Google My Business to stand out and acquire customers.
Let’s get into it!
1. Why Google My Business Matters for Car Dealerships
Google My Business is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google Search and Google Maps. When potential customers search for a car dealership in your local area, having a well setup Google My Business listing will show your dealership at the top of the search result!
Here’s why Google My Business is so important for Used car Dealerships in Australia.
Local Visibility
95% of Australian Car Buyers use Google to find their next car dealership. Many customers start their search by searching for car dealerships “near me”. Having a strong GMB listing will increase your chances of appearing first in local customer searches.
Enhanced Credibility
Having a strong GMB listing that includes your dealership information, past customer reviews and high quality photos will build your dealerships credibility which will ultimately lead to greater customer acquisition.
Customer Engagement
GMB has different features that will allow your dealership to engage with customers directly. Some of GMB best features allow you to respond to customer reviews and post updates and promotions at your dealership. Google My Business will allow you to build relationships with past and potential customers.
Data Insights
Google My Business also provides valuable insights into how customers are finding and interacting with your dealership. In GMB your dealership can track the number of views, clicks, and calls that have come through your dealership. Having access to this information will help you refine and adapt your marketing efforts for greater customer generation.
2. Setting Up and Optimising Your Google My Business Profile
The first step to increasing your dealerships online visibility is by setting up your very own Google My Business profile. However, setting up a GMB listing isn’t enough, to get traction you need to optimise it.
Create and Verify Your GMB Profile
If you haven’t already, create your GMB profile by visiting the Google My Business website and following the setup instructions. During the setup process, be sure to select the right categories like Car Dealer, Used Car Dealership, to make sure your listing is relevant and to appear in the right searches. Once you have completed the setup, you will need to verify your business to unlock all features like engaging with potential customers.
Complete Your Business Information
It is vital that all the information you include on your Google My business profile is accurate and up to date. Be sure to include your dealerships name, address, best contact number, website, trading hours and most importantly contact details. The key to having a good listing is consistency! Ensure all your details are consistent with what’s on your Dealership Website.
Add High-Quality Photos and Videos
The content that you put on your listing is vital and often what will differentiate your dealership and make you stand out online. Ensure that you upload high quality images of your dealership including the cars that you have for sale, your location, and any unique aspects of your dealership. You also have the option of adding video content like videos of your vehicles or even customer testimonials. A visually engaging listing will generate more clicks and engagement.
Utilise the Business Description
In the business description section of Google My Business tell customers about your dealership and what sets you apart from other dealerships. Highlight your dealerships unique selling points, like your vast range of cars for sale, customer service or even car financing options. In this section be sure to include high searched keywords that customers are searching for.
3. Leveraging Google My Business Features for Maximum Impact
Google My Business has many different features that allow your dealership to engage with potential customers and to promote your dealership. Here is how to make the most of Google My Businesses Features.
Google Posts
Google Posts allows your dealership to share updates including promotions, events and news directly on your car dealership Google My Business listing. Your Dealerships Google Posts will appear in your listing itself and will be visible to users that find your dealership on Google Search or Google Map.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
One of the best features of Google My Business is its reviews option. After you have sold a car to a customer, ask them to leave a review on your dealerships Google My Business listing. Be sure to respond to all reviews both positive and negative in a timely manner.
Questions and Answers
Another great feature in GMB is the Q&A section. The Q&A section on your dealerships GMB profile allows customers to ask questions about your dealership. If a customer asks a question on your listing, answer it in the best possible way and as quickly as you can.
Messaging
GMB’s messaging feature allows potential customers to send your dealership direct messages on your profile. Make sure you enable this feature and monitor it regularly. It is important to note that when enabled, customers can respond and message at all hours.
Booking and Appointment Links
If your dealership offers services like test drives, vehicle servicing, or consultations, think about adding a booking link to your GMB profile. Adding a booking link will streamline the process for potential customers, improving convenience and customer satisfaction.
Products and Services
In the products and service section of your GMB listing, list all your vehicles that you have for sale and all your dealerships service like trade ins and car dealer finance. When listing your cars for sale, include detailed descriptions, pricing information, and high quality images to give potential customers everything they need.
4. Monitoring and Analysing Your Google My Business Performance
To ensure your Dealerships GMB strategy is effective, it’s so important that you monitor your profile’s performance and analyse the data provided by Google My Business.
GMB Insights
Google My Business Insights provides valuable data on how customers are interacting with your listing. You can track metrics such as how customers found your business (direct search vs. discovery search), the number of views your listing received, and how often customers called, messaged, or requested directions. Use these insights to identify trends, understand customer behaviour, and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Tracking Conversions
GMB Insights also allows you to track conversions generated from your profile, such as website visits, phone calls, and bookings. By analysing these conversions, you can determine which aspects of your GMB strategy are working well and where there’s room for improvement.
Regular Updates
Keep your GMB profile fresh by regularly updating it with new photos, posts, and information. Regular updates signal to Google and customers that your dealership is active and engaged, which can positively impact your ranking in search results.
Final Word
Google My Business is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance your car dealership’s online presence and attract more local customers. The strategies presented in this piece are proven ways that your dealership can create and optimise GMB to generate leads.
DISCLAIMER – The content within this blog does not constitute professional advice and is intended to be general in nature. Please consult with all relevant parties prior to making any decision.
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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.