3 Ways Car Salespeople Can Increase Sales Using AI for Free

Understanding AI and LLMs

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized numerous industries, and the automotive sector is no exception. Put simply, AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines. These processes include learning, reasoning, and self-correction. In the realm of AI, Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT have gained significant attention recently. LLMs are advanced AI systems that can understand, generate, and respond to human language with a high degree of accuracy. They are incredibly user-friendly, often requiring no more than a web browser to access and use, making them an invaluable tool for professionals across various fields.

With over two decades in marketing, much of that in the automotive retail space, I’ve seen firsthand how AI can transform the way sales teams operate. My passion for computer technology, especially AI, has led me to explore numerous applications that can benefit automotive dealership salespeople. 

Steps for Car Salespeople to Start Using AI

In this article, I’m going to give you 3 ways car salespeople can start using AI to improve their performance. Then, I’ll provide steps and/or sample LLM command prompts to help you generate each type of content. I can’t make it much easier. So let’s dig into some of the quickest ways to get started! I’ll be using ChatGPT for these examples but most LLMs will provide similar results. 

WARNING/DISCLAIMER: Use AI of any kind at your own risk. And one thing you can never forget is that AI never forgets. That means that you should NEVER provide private, personal, or confidential customer information into any public LLM. 

1. Creating Engaging Social Media Posts

AI tools like ChatGPT can help automotive salespeople create compelling social media content. Whether it’s a promotional post about a new car model, a recent trade-in, or customer testimonials, AI can generate engaging and relevant content quickly. This helps maintain a consistent online presence, attracting potential buyers and keeping current customers informed.

Sample Command Prompt:

“Generate three ideas for engaging social media posts promoting the new 2024 Chevy Tahoe, highlighting its sleek design, advanced features, and special financing options. Make one of the post ideas funny.”

Example Result:

Post Idea 1: Highlighting Sleek Design

Visual: High-quality image of the 2024 Chevy Tahoe in a scenic location, showcasing its exterior design.

Caption: “Ready to turn heads wherever you go? The 2024 Chevy Tahoe’s sleek design is a showstopper on any road. Stop by [Dealership Name] to see it in person and take it for a spin! 🚗✨ #ChevyTahoe #SleekDesign #NewArrivals”

Post Idea 2: Showcasing Advanced Features

Visual: Photo carousel or video highlighting the advanced features of the 2024 Chevy Tahoe, such as the infotainment system, rear-view camera, and spacious interior.

Caption: “Experience the future of driving with the 2024 Chevy Tahoe! From its cutting-edge infotainment system to the spacious and luxurious interior, this SUV is built for comfort and convenience. Visit us at [Dealership Name] and discover all the advanced features today. 🚘🔧 #AdvancedTech #ChevyTahoe #DriveInStyle”

Post Idea 3: Funny Post with Special Financing Options

Visual: Fun graphic or meme featuring the 2024 Chevy Tahoe and a playful caption.

Caption: “Why wait to own the SUV of your dreams? With special financing options on the 2024 Chevy Tahoe, you can drive it home today! Come see us at [Dealership Name] and let’s make it happen. (No, we won’t accept Monopoly money 😉) 🚙💰 #ChevyTahoe #SpecialFinancing #DriveYourDream”

2. Crafting Personalized Email Responses

Responding to customer inquiries promptly and effectively is crucial in the automotive sales process. AI can assist in drafting personalized email responses based on the specific needs and questions of the customer. This ensures that potential buyers receive accurate and helpful information quickly, improving their experience and increasing the likelihood of a sale.

Sample Command Prompt:

“Draft a personalized email response to Jane Doe that is no more than 50 words long. They are interested in the 2024 Chevy Tahoe and loved the running boards and interior. They have never bought from us and were referred by their best friend Amy. Offer to schedule a test drive.”

Example Result: 

Hi Jane,

Thank you for your interest in the 2024 Chevy Tahoe! I’m delighted to hear that you loved the running boards and the luxurious interior. It’s a fantastic vehicle, and I’m confident it will meet all your expectations.

Amy has been a valued customer of ours, and she speaks very highly of you. We truly appreciate her referral and are excited about the opportunity to assist you with your first purchase from us. Building relationships with new customers is always a pleasure, and we’re here to make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

I would love to schedule a test drive for you so you can experience the Tahoe’s features firsthand. Test drives are a great way to get a feel for the vehicle and ensure it fits your needs perfectly. Please let me know a date and time that works best for you, and I’ll make all the necessary arrangements.

If you have any questions or need further information before the test drive, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help!

Looking forward to meeting you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Dealership]

[Your Contact Information]

3. Creating Vehicle Walk-Around Video Shot Lists and Scripts

Video marketing is an effective way to showcase vehicles to potential buyers. AI can assist in creating detailed shot lists and scripts for vehicle walk-around videos, ensuring that all key features are highlighted in an engaging manner. This helps salespeople produce high-quality videos that can be shared on social media, websites, and other marketing channels.

Sample Command Prompt:

“Create a detailed shot list and script for a walk-around video of the 2024 Chevy Tahoe, highlighting its exterior design, interior features, and advanced technology. I want the video to be about one minute long. Introduce me at the beginning and ask people to comment with their favorite feature. ”

Example Result: 

Shot List

1. Opening Shot: Wide shot of the dealership with salesperson and the 2024 Chevy Tahoe prominently displayed.
2. Exterior Front View: Close-up of the front grille and headlights.
3. Side View: Panning shot of the vehicle’s side profile.
4. Running Boards: Close-up of the running boards.
5. Rear View: Wide shot of the rear design and tail lights.
6. Interior Front: Close-up of the driver’s seat and dashboard.
7. Interior Features: Shots of the infotainment system, steering wheel, and control panels.
8. Back Seats: View of the spacious back seats and legroom.
9. Technology Highlights: Quick demo of advanced tech features.
10. Ending Shot: Host waving and standing next to the Tahoe.

Script

Opening Shot

• Host: “Hi, I’m <name>, at <dealership>. Today, we’re giving you a quick tour of the incredible 2024 Chevy Tahoe.”

Exterior Front View

• Host: “Starting up front, the 2024 Tahoe features a bold grille and sleek LED headlights. It’s designed to make a statement.”

Side View

• Host: “From the side, you can see its strong lines and robust stance. This SUV truly stands out on the road.”

Running Boards

• Host: “Check out these stylish running boards, making it easy to get in and out of the vehicle.”

Rear View

• Host: “The rear design is just as impressive with sleek tail lights and plenty of cargo space for all your adventures.”

Interior Front

• Host: “Inside, the driver-focused cockpit features premium materials and a modern design that’s both stylish and functional.”

Interior Features

• Host: “The Tahoe is loaded with advanced features, including a state-of-the-art infotainment system and intuitive controls.”

Back Seats

• Host: “Passengers in the back will enjoy generous legroom and comfortable seating, perfect for long trips.”

Technology Highlights

• Host: “The latest tech includes a high-res rear-view camera and seamless smartphone integration, keeping you connected and safe.”

Ending Shot

• Host: “Thanks for joining our quick tour of the 2024 Chevy Tahoe. Comment below with your favorite feature! And if you don’t have one yet, well, the Tahoe might just persuade you otherwise! See you next time!”

Potential Pitfalls of AI/LLMs

While AI tools like ChatGPT offer numerous advantages, it’s important to be aware of potential pitfalls. One notable issue are “hallucinations,” where the AI generates content that is factually incorrect or nonsensical. This can lead to misinformation if not properly monitored. To mitigate this, always review AI-generated content carefully. I will provide a more detailed list of potential pitfalls in an upcoming article.

Conclusion

Incorporating AI tools like ChatGPT into the daily operations of automotive dealership salespeople can significantly enhance productivity and customer engagement. From crafting engaging social media posts and personalized email responses to improving CRM notes, creating engaging voicemails, and creating effective video marketing content, AI offers a range of free, accessible solutions. By leveraging these tools, salespeople can save time, improve customer interactions, and ultimately drive more sales.

My name is J.D. Mixon, the Director of Marketing and Customer Success with DrivingSales. With over 10 years in the automotive retail space and more than 20 years in marketing. I hope you enjoyed these tips. Comment with what else you would like AI to help you with and I'll make it my next project for you!

Happy National Telephone Day! 📞

In the world of automotive sales and service, the power of a phone call can’t be overstated. It’s not just about the ring; it’s about building relationships, providing personalized service, and driving success—one conversation at a time.

In today’s digital age, a phone call is a personal touch that shows we truly care about our customers’ needs. Whether it’s a follow-up on a service visit, checking in after a test drive, or offering the latest promotions, each call we make is an opportunity to steer toward trust and satisfaction.

So today, let’s celebrate the device that keeps us connected to our community and clients. Because in the fast lane of retail automotive, the right call at the right time can make all the difference. 🚗💨

Urgent Vendor Assessment Needed for Automotive Retailers as Google Phases Out Third-Party Cookies

The Plan to Eliminate Cookies from Chrome

Google's plan to eliminate third-party cookies from Chrome by the end of 2024 signals a major shift for digital advertising and data privacy, particularly affecting retail automotive dealers who rely heavily on digital marketing. This change emphasizes the critical need for dealers to confirm that their vendors are fully prepared for the upcoming shift in online advertising standards.

What are Third-Party Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device by websites you visit. They collect data about your browsing behavior, helping sites remember your preferences and login information. First-party cookies are set by the site you visit, while third-party cookies track your activities across different sites for advertising. You can learn more at AllAboutCookies.com.

With these third-party cookies disappearing, dealers must pivot to alternative strategies that comply with new privacy regulations and still effectively reach customers. Google's Privacy Sandbox initiatives are exploring ways to deliver ads without personal data from browsers, ensuring marketing remains impactful without compromising user privacy.

Why Should I Care About Third-Party Cookies Going Away?

The readiness of your vendor to adapt to these changes is paramount. Automotive dealers must proactively engage with their vendors to discuss and assess their preparedness for navigating this new advertising landscape. I was told in a recent conversation with a DrivingSales customer whom I would describe as technologically informed and who uses one of the most widely used vendors in the automotive space, that their customer success manager was completely unaware of this update. My shock strongly influenced me to write this blog. It is crucial to verify that vendors have a robust plan to integrate new technologies and methodologies, like first-party data collection and contextual advertising, which do not rely on invasive data tracking.

Cody Jerry from Search Engines MD recently told me, "The impact of Google's July Chrome update is going to be extremely impactful. We've found some websites receive alerts for over 1000 'reading cookie in cross-site context will be blocked in future Chrome versions' alerts on a single page. The number of cookies actually involved tends to be 50 or more, but we are seeing alerts for Ford.com, Google, Facebook, Marchex, and more. Almost everyone's current marketing setups will be impacted."

Prepare for Third-Party Cookies Going Away

Automotive dealers should prioritize vendor evaluations to ensure their marketing strategies can transition smoothly and align with stricter privacy standards. The shift away from third-party cookies offers an opportunity to innovate and adopt more transparent, privacy-focused marketing approaches.

In summary, the phase-out of third-party cookies underscores the necessity for automotive dealers to ensure their vendors are equipped for change, safeguarding the effectiveness of their digital marketing efforts in a privacy-first world. If you don't know what to ask your vendor, I have included a list of questions below.

What is your understanding of the impact of third-party cookie removal on digital advertising?

• Gauge their awareness and understanding of the changes.

How are you planning to adapt to the elimination of third-party cookies?

• Look for specific strategies or technologies they intend to use.

What alternative tracking technologies or methods do you propose to use?

• Ensure they are considering privacy-compliant alternatives like first-party data, contextual advertising, or Privacy Sandbox technologies.

Can you demonstrate how your new approach complies with current privacy regulations?

• Verify that they are up-to-date with GDPR, CCPA, and other relevant privacy laws.

What changes will need to be made to our existing digital marketing campaigns?

• Understand how your strategies will need to evolve and what new tactics might be necessary.

How will you ensure data accuracy and effectiveness in targeting without third-party cookies?

• Assess their capability to maintain campaign effectiveness.

What is the timeline for implementing these changes?

• Check that their timeline aligns with Google's scheduled phase-out by the end of 2024.

How will these changes affect the cost and ROI of our digital marketing efforts?

• Discuss any potential cost implications or changes in expected returns.

Our Goal at DrivingSales

Our goal at DrivingSales is to advocate for every member of our Community. Please reach out with any questions or suggestions you might have. Believe your vendor is ready to go or completely clueless? Leave a review in Vendor Ratings stating as much and comment below.

Critical Google Email Updates

As we step into 2024, the world of email communication is evolving. Major players like Google and Yahoo are introducing new rules to make emails safer and more reliable. These updates, which will start in February 2024, are all about verifying who's sending emails and cutting down on spam; something we can all get behind. But be careful not to let your marketing get LEFT BEHIND! 

You need to get ready for these changes now. Being proactive means you won't be caught off guard when the new rules kick in. You need to get with your IT professionals or marketing teams to help you navigate these updates. If you've already set up DKIM and DMARC, you're in the clear – these changes won't affect you. I still recommend confirming all necessary settings are properly configured. 

Let's break down what's happening

Google's New Rules

Google and Yahoo are making it mandatory for all email senders, especially those who send lots of emails, to follow certain best practices. This includes authenticating emails and preventing spam. These changes aim to make sure emails reach their destination, build trust, keep out of spam folders, and maintain a good sending reputation. This isn’t only for marketing emails. It’s for every email you send - CRM, service updates, marketing, etc.

Gmail's Authentication Requirement

A big part of Google's new rules is email authentication. You'll need to set up DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) and have a basic DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) record. This is super important for people who send a lot of emails. But don't worry, if you've already done this, you're all set. If you haven’t get it done ASAP.

Switch to Your Own Domain

Instead of using @gmail.com addresses, it's better to use an email address from your own domain. This helps with the new authentication and spam rules. I don’t know of a dealership out there that doesn’t have their own domain, but not all use it for their email. If you aren’t using your domain for email yet, now's a good time to start.

Keep Spam Complaints Low

Google will be keeping an eye on spam complaints. Try to keep these under 0.1% to stay in line with their new standards. Don’t over-email or unintentionally spam customers. 

Understanding DKIM and DMARC

What's DKIM?

DKIM is like a digital signature for your emails. It proves your emails are genuine and protects them from being tampered with.

Why DKIM?

Using DKIM builds trust with email providers and recipients, helping your emails land in inboxes, not spam folders.

What's a DKIM Record?

It's a digital key in your email, like a unique seal, showing that your email is real and secure.

How Does DKIM Work?

DKIM uses two keys to verify emails. It's like a secret handshake that ensures your email is authentic and unchanged.

What's DMARC?

DMARC is like a security guard for your emails. It tells email services how to handle emails from your domain, ensuring only genuine emails get through.

Do You Need DMARC?

Yes, especially with the new Google and Yahoo rules. It protects your domain from misuse and keeps your emails trustworthy.

How Does DMARC Work?

DMARC works with DKIM and SPF, checking your emails are from an authorized source and unchanged.

DKIM for Low-Volume Senders

Setting up DKIM is beneficial for all senders, regardless of volume. It improves your open rates and reputation.

High-Volume Senders and New Domains

High-volume senders should transition to using their own authentication. This might be a bit bumpy at first, especially with a new domain, but it's crucial for long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who's Affected?

All email senders, but bulk senders will feel it more. 

Does Sending Volume Matter?

While Google mentions a 5K daily limit to identify bulk senders, there's no safe zone. All senders should follow the new rules.

What If You Don't Comply?

Google and Yahoo might start blocking your emails, which could hurt your reputation and email marketing success.

Can DrivingSales help me make these updates?

Although we are always here to support dealers, these updates will need to be handled by your typical IT professionals. You can, of course, reach out to us with any questions. 

What if I don’t have an IT professional to help me?

Speak to your marketing team or vendor. They may be able to assist. Be careful to only work with someone knowledgeable about these types of updates.

If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out to our team and we will do our best to point you in the right direction. Good luck and good selling!

In the auto industry, there's a pressing need to collectively enhance our reputation for trustworthiness. This challenge continues to be highlighted in Gallup polls, which show that professions like nurses, medical doctors, and pharmacists continue to hold high esteem in terms of ethics and honesty among the American public, as they should. While these professions have experienced some fluctuations in their ratings, they still outperform all other fields year after year... And if you read far enough down the reports, you'll finally stumble upon car sales. Thankfully, we at least rank above telemarketers and members of Congress in ethical standards.

The automotive dealer community must make a shift in our competitive strategy. Rather than vying to be seen as more trustworthy than the dealer down the street, we MUST collaborate to elevate the entire industry's trustworthiness. This approach will benefit both the industry and consumers. By learning from the consistent high ratings of healthcare professionals, dealers can adopt best practices in customer service, transparency, and ethical dealings.

The Gallup poll reveals a clear need for improvement in how the public perceives car salespeople. Building trust should be a unified goal, moving beyond individual dealership competition to a broader, industry-wide reputation enhancement. This unified effort can potentially lift the perception of car dealerships to align more closely with professions that traditionally hold high ethical standards in the eyes of the public.

As we embark on this journey to transform the public perception of our industry, I invite fellow dealers to share their insights and suggestions. How can we, as a united front, elevate the trustworthiness of the automotive dealership sector? What strategies have you found effective in fostering transparency, integrity, and customer satisfaction? Your experiences and ideas are invaluable in shaping a collaborative approach that benefits not only our individual businesses but the entire industry. Let's open a dialogue and work together towards a future where car dealerships are synonymous with trust and ethical business practices. Please share your thoughts and feedback – your contribution is essential in driving this much-needed change.

If you want to work on a more in-depth project together, reach out to me directly and lets see what we can accompish!

You’re a sharp-witted salesperson, making your way through the fiercely competitive automotive market. You're confident in your ability to sell, but how can you ensure potential customers take notice of your pitch? Look no further: personalized videos is the NOS hiding in your trunk. In this article, we'll explore the undeniable charm of personalized videos and how they'll transform you into the salesperson every customer is eager to buy from.

First things first, think about how you like to be communicated with – personalized, right? If you were buying a house, you wouldn't want to work with a realtor that has to constantly be reminded of your name or fakes it by always calling you “buddy” or “pal.” No, you want someone to know your name and your interests. The same goes for your customers! Sending them a personalized video not only shows them you care, but also helps you stand out in a sea of generic sales pitches.

Now let's talk trust. Your customers want to know they're in good hands. By appearing in a personalized video, you're showing your face, hopefully sharing your knowledge, but most importantly, proving to your customers that you're a real, approachable person. They'll feel like they already know you, making it that much easier to establish a genuine connection that will help lead to a sale.

Personalized videos are also an excellent way to convey information effectively. Instead of forcing customers to read a lengthy email about vehicle specs, why not show them a quick, informative video where you demonstrate the car's features in action? Your customers will be engaged and will retain the information better than if they'd read it in an email. 

Time is money, and you might be thinking that making personalized videos for each prospect will consume all your precious selling time. Fear not, dear salespeople! With a little practice, you'll find that a concise, informative video can save you time and resources compared to typing out lengthy emails or making multiple phone calls. Plus, your videos can easily be repurposed for your social media or dealership's website, maximizing your return on investment. No more chicken-peck keyboard banging for you!

And finally, let's talk about the ultimate goal: closing deals. Imagine if every customer that walked into your dealership felt like they already knew you, trusted you, and were excited to buy a car from you. That's the power of personalized videos. Your commitment to exceptional customer service will resonate with potential buyers, leading to more closed deals and satisfied customers.

So, fellow car salespeople, the time has come to embrace the power of personalized videos. Show off your friendly demeanor, your extensive vehicle knowledge, and keep the content light and witty. By incorporating personalized video content into your sales strategy, you'll become the go-to salesperson for potential car buyers, and your sales will soar. Happy selling, y’all!

Starting a new career can be an exciting and intimidating prospect. It's an opportunity to pursue your passions and build a fulfilling professional life, but it can also involve a lot of uncertainty and hard work. If you're considering starting the new career off with a new career, why not consider looking into the automotive industry. Don’t let any preconceptions you may have slow you down. Let me explain why it can be an emotionally rewarding and profitable choice.

Automotive dealerships offer a wide range of career opportunities, from sales and marketing to service and repair. No matter what your interests or skillset, there's likely a role that will be a good fit for you. Here are a few reasons why an exciting, profitable career with an automotive dealership could be a great fit for you:

1. The automotive industry is constantly evolving.

Technology is changing the way we drive and the way vehicles are made, and this means that there is always something new to learn in automotive. Whether you're interested in electric or hybrid vehicles, advanced safety features, or exciting new car designs, you'll have the chance to stay up-to-date with the latest automotive developments. This helps keep your job interesting and helps you stay competitive in the job market.

1. You'll have the opportunity to work with a wide range of people.

Automotive dealerships are often busy, bustling places, and this means you'll have the chance to interact with a diverse group of people every day. From customers and coworkers to vendors and partners, you'll have the opportunity to build relationships and communicate effectively with a variety of people. This is a great way to build your communication skills and learn to work well with others.

1. You'll be able to build a successful career.

The auto industry is a great place to build a rewarding career. With the right training and experience, you can advance through the ranks and take on leadership roles within any dealership. Many dealers and manufacturers also offer ongoing training and development programs to help their employees grow and succeed. Plus, the last few years have proven that the automotive industry is a large and stable industry with plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement.

1. You'll have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology.

The automotive industry is always on the cutting edge of technology, and this means that you'll have the chance to work with some of the most advanced tools and equipment in the world. From diagnostic equipment to specialized tools and software, you'll have the chance to learn and use the latest technologies to help you excel in your career.

1. You'll be able to make a positive impact!

When you work at an automotive dealership, you'll be helping people every day. Whether you're selling a new car to a first-time buyer or helping a customer get their car repaired, you'll be making a positive impact on people's lives. This can be a fulfilling and rewarding aspect of your job, and it can help you feel like you're making a difference in the world. In addition, automotive dealerships are often some of the most philanthropic organizations in local communities. 

Overall, starting a new career at an automotive dealership can be a great choice for people who are looking for an exciting, profitable, and meaningful career. Whether you're passionate about cars, technology, or helping people, this could be the perfect fit for you. So if you're ready to start the new year with a new career, consider exploring the many opportunities available in the automotive industry.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments section below. I would love to hear from you.