As a car dealership, your ultimate goal is to sell cars and make a profit. However, in today's competitive market, it is not enough to simply sell cars – you need to create a positive experience for your customers that will make them want to come back and recommend your dealership to their friends and family.
One way to do this is by turning your customers into advocates for your dealership.
An advocate is a customer who is so satisfied with their experience at your dealership that they are willing to actively promote your business to others. This can be incredibly valuable for your dealership, as word-of-mouth marketing is often the most effective way to attract new customers.
So, how can you turn your customers into advocates for your dealership? Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Provide excellent customer service
The first step to turning your customers into advocates is to provide them with excellent customer service. This means treating your customers with respect, listening to their needs, and going above and beyond to meet their expectations.
One way to provide excellent customer service is by training your staff to be friendly and helpful. Encourage your employees to listen to customers and address their concerns in a timely and professional manner. You can also implement customer service programs and incentives to reward employees who go above and beyond to meet customer needs.
2. Offer high-quality vehicles and services
Another way to turn your customers into advocates is to offer high-quality vehicles and services. This means providing a wide selection of vehicles to choose from, as well as offering services such as financing, maintenance, and repairs.
To ensure the quality of your vehicles, regularly inspect and maintain your inventory. Offer warranties and guarantees to give customers peace of mind and show them that you stand behind your products. For services, make sure to hire experienced and knowledgeable staff who can provide expert advice and assistance to customers.
3. Create a positive and inviting atmosphere
The atmosphere of your dealership can also play a role in turning customers into advocates. A clean, welcoming, and inviting atmosphere can make customers feel more comfortable and willing to spend time at your dealership.
To create a positive atmosphere, make sure to keep your dealership clean and well-maintained. Use decorations and signage to create a visually appealing environment. You can also offer refreshments and other amenities to make customers feel at home.
4. Follow up with customers after their purchase
After a customer has made a purchase, it is important to follow up with them to ensure their satisfaction. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as sending a thank-you note, calling to check in, or sending a survey to gather feedback.
By following up with customers, you show them that you value their business and are interested in their experience. This can help to build trust and loyalty, which can in turn turn customers into advocates for your dealership.
5. Offer incentives for referrals
Another way to turn customers into advocates is to offer incentives for referrals. This means offering rewards or discounts to customers who refer their friends and family to your dealership.
For example, you could offer a discount on their next service or a free car wash for every referral they provide. You can also offer a grand prize, such as a holiday or big prize for customers who refer the most people to your dealership.
By offering incentives for referrals, you not only reward your customers for their loyalty, but you also encourage them to spread the word about your dealership to others.
In conclusion, turning customers into advocates for your car dealership is a great way to attract new business.
Need help? Talk to the team at The Dealers Edge