There’s no two ways about it: If you want buyers to choose your dealership for their automotive needs, you’re going to have to earn their trust. One of the best ways to do that is to accrue some reviews on sites like Google, Facebook, and Yelp. These reviews are a kind of online currency, proving to potential buyers that your dealership is credible.
You can’t force anyone to give you a review, but there are some simple steps you can take to encourage it. Here’s a quick guide from the Get My Auto team. And remember, for additional dealer marketing SaaS offerings, reach out to our team directly!
5 Ways to Get More Online Reviews
Make sure you have the right profiles and platforms.
First and foremost, make sure you have the right online platforms where buyers can leave feedback. Specifically, ensure that your dealership has a dedicated Facebook page as well as a Google My Business page. And, be sure you take just a few minutes to verify that all your dealership’s operating information (current hours, phone number, etc.) is up to date on these platforms.
Ask for reviews.
While you can’t make anybody leave you a review, you can definitely request it. There are a number of options here. One method is to train your sales reps to request a review upon the point of purchase; hopefully, your buyers will be feeling satisfied by their experience, and generous with their feedback! Another option is to wait two or three days and send a follow-up email asking for reviews, before the rush of the new vehicle purchase wears off.
Share positive reviews.
When you get good reviews, it’s alright to brag about them! Share them from your social media accounts. Turn them into images you can put up on Instagram. Let everyone see the kind of praise your dealership is receiving.
Respond to reviews.
Something else that’s important is responding to every review you receive; this shows buyers that their feedback actually matters, that you see it and take it seriously. Of course, this will require you to monitor your different review platforms. When you get positive comments, simply offer a quick word of thanks. And if you get bad reviews, be sure to respond in a gracious way, extending customer service and trying to make things right with the dissatisfied buyer.
Avoid giveaways and gimmicks.
One thing you don’t want to do is bribe people into leaving you reviews; while this used to be a common strategy, it’s frowned upon today, and may even land you with a Google penalty. Stick to earning those reviews rather than trying to buy them.
Learn More About Gaining Online Reviews
As you think about the best ways to establish your dealership’s credibility, online reviews are utterly essential. Use these steps to build up your review portfolio. And again, if you’d like more solutions for improving your dealership’s online reputation, connect with Get My Auto today.