The topic of customer loyalty continues to effect the automotive industry. With more independent service facilities encroaching on the dealership space and the ongoing consumer perception that new-vehicle Service Departments are more expensive, there becomes a growing need to build customer loyalty and retain customers throughout their ownership lifecycle. Here are three ideas to help your dealership build customer loyalty and boost end-of-summer traffic.
Humanize Your Brand
A great way for consumers to trust your dealership is by humanizing your brand. Many consumers are intimidated by dealerships and because of this, they have misconceptions and often prefer to visit an independent service facility. So, think about using social media to show the world that your dealership is made up of real life people. Post videos of employees, recent buyers, and even a message from your general manager. If you have any special events, employee picnics, or anything that shows your business in a personal manor, be sure to share videos and photos on social media.
Communicate with Customers
Keep an open line of communication with customers at all times. If possible, use triggered database communications to keep in touch with customers during key touchpoints in their ownership lifecycle. Consistent, relevant communications are a great way to keep brand awareness and make sure customers come back to you for future vehicle needs.
Improve Employee Retention
One of the best ways to keep customers is to hire great employees and then retain them. Great employees build lasting impressions on customers and keep them coming back to your dealership. Believe it or not, investing in your dealership’s employees is one of the best loyalty-building actions that you can do for your dealership. So think about ways you can work to retain your best employees and hire more of them.
If you’re looking for a way to boost end-of-summer traffic, be sure to think about how you can build loyalty among your existing customers to keep them coming back.