SEO Tips For Car Dealerships

👉 The Importance Of Local SEO
👉 Leveraging Quality Backlinks
👉 Building A Strong Review Profile
👉 Targeting Long-Tail Keywords
👉 Creating A Deep, Structured Site
👉 Partner With Marsh Finance For SEO And Compliance Support

SEO isn't just a nice-to-have; it's essential for dealerships and brokers aiming to attract and convert online shoppers. As 92% of car buyers start their journey online, your digital presence can make or break the first impression (Google). If you own or work in a car dealership, SEO can be a game-changer. Leveraging SEO can drive visibility, footfall, and conversions – all crucial for standing out in a competitive market.

The Importance Of Local SEO

Given that most customers prefer purchasing from local dealers, optimising for local SEO is non-negotiable. Start by setting up your Google Business Profile, a foundational step that positions your dealership in Google's Map Pack, a highly visible section on the search engine results page. Regularly updating your business information, adding photos, and encouraging reviews can boost credibility and engagement with local buyers.

Leveraging Quality Backlinks

Backlinks remain a critical SEO ranking factor. For dealerships, locally sourced backlinks are key. Partner with local automotive businesses, event organisers, and publications to earn high-quality links. Not only does this strengthen your domain's authority, but it also provides referral traffic from relevant sources, enhancing your site's visibility among your target audience.

Building A Strong Review Profile

Google Maps rankings are increasingly influenced by the quality and volume of customer reviews. A strong review profile not only boosts your SEO but also serves as social proof, influencing customers’ buying decisions. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews, as these can significantly impact your local rankings and attract new leads.

Targeting Long-Tail Keywords

The automotive sector is competitive, especially for general search terms. To stay ahead, focus on long-tail keywords that reflect specific models, features, or locations. For instance, instead of competing for “car dealer Manchester,” target phrases like “used Ford Fiesta Manchester.” These longer, more specific keywords can help attract customers who are further along in their buying journey.

Creating A Deep, Structured Site

A well-organised website with a deep structure not only improves navigation but also enhances SEO. Organise content around broader categories and then dive into specifics. For example, a logical structure could flow from “used cars” to “used SUVs” to specific models like “used Ford Kuga.” This approach optimises for both user experience and search engines, making it easier for potential buyers to find precisely what they need.

Partner With Marsh Finance For SEO And Compliance Support

Navigating SEO can be challenging, but you don’t have to go it alone. Partnering with Marsh Finance offers you free sales and compliance support to help drive visibility, credibility, and conversions. Ready to elevate your dealership’s online presence? Contact us today for a free financial promotions review and see how we can support your journey to digital success.

FAQs

How Do I Set Up Google For Business?

Google for Business, now known as Google Business Profile, is a free tool that helps you manage your business's online presence on Google Search and Maps. Here's how to set it up:

1. Create a Google Account:

• If you don't have one, create a free Google account.

2. Sign In to Google My Business:

• Go to google.com/business and sign in with your Google account.

3. Add Your Business:

• Click "Add your business".
• Enter your business name and address.
• Choose the most relevant business category.

4. Verify Your Business:

• Google will send a verification code to your business address via mail or phone.
• Once you receive the code, enter it on the Google My Business website to verify your business.

5. Complete Your Business Profile:

• Add your business hours, phone number, website, and other relevant information.
• Upload photos of your business, products, or services.
• Write a brief description of your business.

6. Manage Your Business Profile:

• Regularly update your business information.
• Respond to customer reviews and questions.
• Post updates and offers to attract customers.

How Can I Optimise My Google Business Profile?

• Keyword Optimisation: Use relevant keywords in your business name, description, and category. For example: Bobs Motors Car Dealership
• Local SEO: Optimise your profile for local search by adding your city, area, and specific services.
• Encourage Reviews: Positive reviews can significantly improve your business's online reputation.
• Post Regularly: Share updates, photos, and offers to keep your customers engaged.
• Monitor Insights: Use Google My Business Insights to track your performance and make data-driven decisions.

By following these steps and optimising your Google Business Profile, you can enhance your online visibility, attract more customers, and boost your business's local SEO.

What Is A Backlink?

Backlinks are links from one website to another. When a website links to yours, it's like a vote of confidence, telling search engines that your website is valuable and trustworthy.

Why are backlinks important?

• Search Engine Rankings: Search engines like Google use backlinks to determine how important a website is. More high-quality backlinks can help your website rank higher in search results, making it easier for people to find you.
• Increased Traffic: When other websites link to yours, it can drive more traffic to your site. People who are already on another website and see a link to yours might click through to learn more.
• Improved Credibility: Backlinks from reputable websites can enhance your website's credibility and authority.

How Do You Get Backlinks?

There are many strategies to build backlinks, but here are a few common ones:

• Create high-quality content: If your content is valuable and informative, other websites may naturally link to it.
• Guest posting: Write articles for other websites in your industry. These articles can include links back to your own website.
• Outreach: Reach out to other website owners and bloggers to ask them to link to your content.
• Social media: Share your content on social media platforms to increase visibility and potential backlinks.

By building a strong backlink profile, you can improve your website's visibility, attract more visitors, and ultimately boost your online success.

How Can I Get Customers To Leave A Google Review?

Asking for customer reviews is a powerful way to build your dealership's online reputation. Here are some ideas:

1. In-Person Request:

• Direct Approach: Simply ask your customers if they'd be willing to leave a review. A personal touch can go a long way.
• Review Card: Provide customers with a physical card that includes a link to your review page and a brief thank-you message.
• Review Station: Set up a dedicated review station in your dealership where customers can leave reviews using a tablet or computer.

2. Email Request:

• Personalised Email: Send a personalised email to customers after their purchase, thanking them for their business and including a link to your review page.
• Automated Email: Use email marketing software to automate review requests, ensuring consistent follow-up.

3. Text Message Request:

• Concise Text: Send a brief text message to customers, thanking them and including a link to your review page.

4. Social Media Request:

• Direct Message: Send a direct message to customers on social media platforms, asking for a review.
• Social Media Post: Share a post on your dealership's social media pages, encouraging customers to leave reviews.

Tips for Effective Review Requests:

• Timing is Key: Send review requests promptly after a customer interaction to maximise the impact.
• Make it Easy: Provide clear instructions and a direct link to your review page.
• Offer Incentives: Consider offering small incentives, such as discounts or free gifts, to encourage reviews.
• Respond to Reviews: Respond to both positive and negative reviews promptly and professionally.
• Monitor Your Reviews: Regularly check your online reviews and address any negative feedback.