Social Media News for the Week of August 24 via @SocialLittleMan

Blab.im Hitting the Social Scene

Still in Beta, Blab.im is a chat app marketers and various other users are keeping their eyes on.  Similar to Periscope, its live streaming functionality allows groups of up to four to video chat simultaneously.  Boasting easy-to-install and easy-to-integrate usability, users will also the Blab emoticons, link accessibility, and variety of color schemes for personalization.  With the popularity of instant-message chat, dealerships will want to keep an eye on this app and consider applying to their daily interactions with savvy online consumers.  Chat away, answer shopper questions, and participate in live sales conversations.

Twitter Ad Network Expands

As it continues to improve and expand its advertising offerings, Twitter recently announced the Twitter Audience Platform, an expanded advertisement platform offering new creative features such as Tweet engagement campaigns that become interstitial and native ads on Twitter, Promoted Video campaigns that are turned into in-app video ads, and app install or re-engagement campaigns that become interstitial or banner ads.  According to Twitter, advertisers will now be able to reach “over 700 million people on and off of Twitter.”  As your dealership continues to focus on your social platforms, increase your reach with Twitter’s newest improvements; get your videos seen more often and drive consumer engagement by reaching out to your target audience.

LinkedIn Lookup Helps

The latest and greatest for LinkedIn is LinkedIn Lookup, a new app that helps users more easily find, learn about, and get in touch with their professional contacts.  According to LinkedIn, most corporate intranet sites do a poor job of providing co-worker information, so they’ve solved that problem by creating Lookup, an effective way for professionals to search for other professionals by name, title, experience, education, and skills.  Now available in the App Store, Lookup is making it easier to create business relationships.  Dealerships looking to connect with industry professionals—either to round out their teams or simply to share expertise—can now look to LinkedIn Lookup to facilitate their searches.

Instagram Makes It Easier to Add Locations

It’s now easier for users to add locations to their Instagram photos.  By removing the “Add to Photomap” button, Instagram changed the way locations will be tagged when posted.  Effectively, all images tagged with a location are now added to user maps, facilitating the location-adding process for users.  For users who want to remove locations from their photos, Instagram provides a process to do so, allowing for privacy via the profile page settings.  For dealerships taking advantage of the Instagram craze, adding your location just got a lot easier—simply post your tagged photos, and Instagram will place your inventory or lot pics on the Photomap for you.

WhatsApp Rolling Out for iOS

Nearly half a year behind the rollout for Android, WhatsApp is rolling out for iOS.  A cross-platform mobile messaging app, allowing users to exchange messages without having to pay for SMS, WhatsApp makes it possible for users to message across iPhone, BlackBerry, Android, Windows Phone, and Nokia.  Users are also able to create groups, send images, video messages, and audio media messages.  Although WhatsApp’s legal docs state “your use of the service as permitted is solely for your personal use,” dealerships would be completely above board in sharing blog posts, engaging with customers, and sharing showroom images.

Tip of the Week—The Social Media Time Warp

It’s happened to all of us.  You get on Facebook or Twitter or Instagram—the list goes on.  And suddenly when you look up, half the day is gone.  You’re left wondering if you’ve accomplished anything productive.  Most professionals, especially those in small- to medium-sized businesses recognize the need to establish a presence on social media, but along with that, one of the biggest concerns is the amount of time it takes to build a platform your consumers recognize and return to time and again.

Fear not!  There are ways to create a killer online presence while still reserving enough time in your day to take care of the other tasks that demand your attention.  Look below for some great time-saving tips:

• Start off with a plan.  No great mountain climber ever walked out of his house and conquered Everest on Day 1—so recognize the fact that you need to start slowly.  Choose one or two (maybe three if you’re a time-juggling genius!) to start off, and get really good at interacting on those platforms.  Find out where your potential customers are interacting, and go where they are.  Hint: Facebook and Twitter are probably great places to start.

• Be consistent.  Your goal is to show your online followers you are a presence they can count on, and that means you need to consistently post content.  Make a schedule and stick to it; your fans will be expecting you.  A schedule will keep your followers satisfied, while also keeping you on task and saving time.

• Don’t stress.  This wastes time and makes you sound inauthentic.  Instead of spending time reworking your posts and trying to come up with perfection, relax and use your own voice.  Trust me, you’ll be a natural at it.  It’s just like talking to customers on the showroom floor.  Your comfort will shine through, and people will want to interact with you.

• Schedule posts.  This is a handy little feature for those of us who tend to wander when posting.  Block off a segment of time and plan on scheduling several posts at once.  It’s efficient, and it will save you time in the long run.

• Go notification-free.  Notifications can be distracting and time-consuming, so when you really need to buckle down and focus, take a second to turn off your notifications.  It will save you valuable time and keep you focused on the task at hand.

When it comes down to it, dedicating time to your social media platforms is necessary as today’s marketplace becomes more fast-paced and consumers demand quicker solutions.  It’s worth the effort you put in today to get the results you’ll see from engaged consumers in the future.

Have a social media tip you’re dealership has used successfully?  Tweet it to me @sociallittleman or comment below.  We love hearing from you!  #StrongerTogether

Social Media News for the Week of August 24 via @SocialLittleMan

Blab.im Hitting the Social Scene

Still in Beta, Blab.im is a chat app marketers and various other users are keeping their eyes on.  Similar to Periscope, its live streaming functionality allows groups of up to four to video chat simultaneously.  Boasting easy-to-install and easy-to-integrate usability, users will also the Blab emoticons, link accessibility, and variety of color schemes for personalization.  With the popularity of instant-message chat, dealerships will want to keep an eye on this app and consider applying to their daily interactions with savvy online consumers.  Chat away, answer shopper questions, and participate in live sales conversations.

Twitter Ad Network Expands

As it continues to improve and expand its advertising offerings, Twitter recently announced the Twitter Audience Platform, an expanded advertisement platform offering new creative features such as Tweet engagement campaigns that become interstitial and native ads on Twitter, Promoted Video campaigns that are turned into in-app video ads, and app install or re-engagement campaigns that become interstitial or banner ads.  According to Twitter, advertisers will now be able to reach “over 700 million people on and off of Twitter.”  As your dealership continues to focus on your social platforms, increase your reach with Twitter’s newest improvements; get your videos seen more often and drive consumer engagement by reaching out to your target audience.

LinkedIn Lookup Helps

The latest and greatest for LinkedIn is LinkedIn Lookup, a new app that helps users more easily find, learn about, and get in touch with their professional contacts.  According to LinkedIn, most corporate intranet sites do a poor job of providing co-worker information, so they’ve solved that problem by creating Lookup, an effective way for professionals to search for other professionals by name, title, experience, education, and skills.  Now available in the App Store, Lookup is making it easier to create business relationships.  Dealerships looking to connect with industry professionals—either to round out their teams or simply to share expertise—can now look to LinkedIn Lookup to facilitate their searches.

Instagram Makes It Easier to Add Locations

It’s now easier for users to add locations to their Instagram photos.  By removing the “Add to Photomap” button, Instagram changed the way locations will be tagged when posted.  Effectively, all images tagged with a location are now added to user maps, facilitating the location-adding process for users.  For users who want to remove locations from their photos, Instagram provides a process to do so, allowing for privacy via the profile page settings.  For dealerships taking advantage of the Instagram craze, adding your location just got a lot easier—simply post your tagged photos, and Instagram will place your inventory or lot pics on the Photomap for you.

WhatsApp Rolling Out for iOS

Nearly half a year behind the rollout for Android, WhatsApp is rolling out for iOS.  A cross-platform mobile messaging app, allowing users to exchange messages without having to pay for SMS, WhatsApp makes it possible for users to message across iPhone, BlackBerry, Android, Windows Phone, and Nokia.  Users are also able to create groups, send images, video messages, and audio media messages.  Although WhatsApp’s legal docs state “your use of the service as permitted is solely for your personal use,” dealerships would be completely above board in sharing blog posts, engaging with customers, and sharing showroom images.

Tip of the Week—The Social Media Time Warp

It’s happened to all of us.  You get on Facebook or Twitter or Instagram—the list goes on.  And suddenly when you look up, half the day is gone.  You’re left wondering if you’ve accomplished anything productive.  Most professionals, especially those in small- to medium-sized businesses recognize the need to establish a presence on social media, but along with that, one of the biggest concerns is the amount of time it takes to build a platform your consumers recognize and return to time and again.

Fear not!  There are ways to create a killer online presence while still reserving enough time in your day to take care of the other tasks that demand your attention.  Look below for some great time-saving tips:

• Start off with a plan.  No great mountain climber ever walked out of his house and conquered Everest on Day 1—so recognize the fact that you need to start slowly.  Choose one or two (maybe three if you’re a time-juggling genius!) to start off, and get really good at interacting on those platforms.  Find out where your potential customers are interacting, and go where they are.  Hint: Facebook and Twitter are probably great places to start.

• Be consistent.  Your goal is to show your online followers you are a presence they can count on, and that means you need to consistently post content.  Make a schedule and stick to it; your fans will be expecting you.  A schedule will keep your followers satisfied, while also keeping you on task and saving time.

• Don’t stress.  This wastes time and makes you sound inauthentic.  Instead of spending time reworking your posts and trying to come up with perfection, relax and use your own voice.  Trust me, you’ll be a natural at it.  It’s just like talking to customers on the showroom floor.  Your comfort will shine through, and people will want to interact with you.

• Schedule posts.  This is a handy little feature for those of us who tend to wander when posting.  Block off a segment of time and plan on scheduling several posts at once.  It’s efficient, and it will save you time in the long run.

• Go notification-free.  Notifications can be distracting and time-consuming, so when you really need to buckle down and focus, take a second to turn off your notifications.  It will save you valuable time and keep you focused on the task at hand.

When it comes down to it, dedicating time to your social media platforms is necessary as today’s marketplace becomes more fast-paced and consumers demand quicker solutions.  It’s worth the effort you put in today to get the results you’ll see from engaged consumers in the future.

Have a social media tip you’re dealership has used successfully?  Tweet it to me @sociallittleman or comment below.  We love hearing from you!  #StrongerTogether

4 Reasons Marketing to Your Employees Matters

Employees are the lifeblood of your dealership and have the most impact on your customer loyalty. If that sentence made you cringe, you probably aren’t doing all you can to ensure your employees are actively engaged and have the tools and guidance necessary to fully do their jobs. Marketing to customers may be the key to bringing in business, but who is responsible for truly conveying the message of your business to consumers? Who gives customers the first impression at your dealership, has meaningful conversations with consumers on the lot, and spends time in the service center showing customers how to check their oil? Who informs customers about their financing options, fosters relationships, and creates customer loyalty? Your very own employees.

Correctly marketing to employees means showing them your dealership is a place they can be proud to work and ultimately leads to success in the marketplace. Below you’ll find four important reasons why marketing to your employees matters.

Employees become more engaged.

Marketing to employees means encouraging communication and positivity, understanding their values, showing every employee respect regardless of job title, and appreciating the work they do. It also includes fostering workplace relationships and assuring they understand your dealership’s culture and mission. They should feel proud to be employed by your dealership.

Consistently listening to employees and measuring their preferences will promote employee engagement, creating the classical win-win relationship for both employees and employers. According to PeopleMetrics, individual companies lose about $2,246 each year per disengaged employee. This is certainly something your dealership wants to avoid. An environment where people feel connected and in sync with the company culture encourages employees to care more about the jobs they do and leads to high levels of employee output. 

Employees will want to stay at your dealership.

Employee turnover costs US business $11 billion a year, and disengaged or dissatisfied employees are far more likely to leave their employers. On the flip side, engaged employees are less likely to leave and seek jobs elsewhere. Retention should be a priority for your dealership, given the added expense of recruiting and hiring replacements. If your dealership is focused on making sure employees know the goals, culture, and mission of your business, retention won’t be an issue. In addition, working toward a common goal or for a cause people want to support can work wonders for a dealership’s engagement and employee satisfaction.

Employees will share your dealership.

It’s true your vocal employees are your best brand advocates. Did you know that on average, your employees have 10 times more connections than your brand? And did you know that leads from employees convert 7 times more frequently than other leads? With these statistics in mind, do you want to miss out on the potential sales your informed and engaged employees could afford your dealership?

Employees will only want to share your dealership with their networks if they fully understand the company mission. Ensuring your employees want to recommend your dealership means highlighting what makes your dealership the best one in the market so they feel comfortable sending their family, friends, and acquaintances to it.

Dealership executives aren’t the only ones who should focus on creating the best customer experience. ALL employees are brand ambassadors, even the ones who aren’t payed the most and have ample opportunities to interact directly with customers. This includes professionals on the sales floor, on the lot, in the service department, in the waiting room, or in the finance office.

Great managers market to employees so they gain an understanding of how their job connects the dealership to the customer. Every direct or indirect point of contact has the potential to make a customer feel more or less engaged with your dealership, and because sales and service employees are almost always in close proximity to customers, ensuring they want to make the customer experience a good one is imperative to the growth of your market and your dealership’s success.

Marketing to your employees has many benefits. Focus on making employees feel valued and convey your mission, goals, and what makes your dealership unique and prepare to be wowed by a highly engaged team, a lower turnover, a bigger market, and guaranteed great customer experiences.  

4 Reasons Marketing to Your Employees Matters

Employees are the lifeblood of your dealership and have the most impact on your customer loyalty. If that sentence made you cringe, you probably aren’t doing all you can to ensure your employees are actively engaged and have the tools and guidance necessary to fully do their jobs. Marketing to customers may be the key to bringing in business, but who is responsible for truly conveying the message of your business to consumers? Who gives customers the first impression at your dealership, has meaningful conversations with consumers on the lot, and spends time in the service center showing customers how to check their oil? Who informs customers about their financing options, fosters relationships, and creates customer loyalty? Your very own employees.

Correctly marketing to employees means showing them your dealership is a place they can be proud to work and ultimately leads to success in the marketplace. Below you’ll find four important reasons why marketing to your employees matters.

Employees become more engaged.

Marketing to employees means encouraging communication and positivity, understanding their values, showing every employee respect regardless of job title, and appreciating the work they do. It also includes fostering workplace relationships and assuring they understand your dealership’s culture and mission. They should feel proud to be employed by your dealership.

Consistently listening to employees and measuring their preferences will promote employee engagement, creating the classical win-win relationship for both employees and employers. According to PeopleMetrics, individual companies lose about $2,246 each year per disengaged employee. This is certainly something your dealership wants to avoid. An environment where people feel connected and in sync with the company culture encourages employees to care more about the jobs they do and leads to high levels of employee output. 

Employees will want to stay at your dealership.

Employee turnover costs US business $11 billion a year, and disengaged or dissatisfied employees are far more likely to leave their employers. On the flip side, engaged employees are less likely to leave and seek jobs elsewhere. Retention should be a priority for your dealership, given the added expense of recruiting and hiring replacements. If your dealership is focused on making sure employees know the goals, culture, and mission of your business, retention won’t be an issue. In addition, working toward a common goal or for a cause people want to support can work wonders for a dealership’s engagement and employee satisfaction.

Employees will share your dealership.

It’s true your vocal employees are your best brand advocates. Did you know that on average, your employees have 10 times more connections than your brand? And did you know that leads from employees convert 7 times more frequently than other leads? With these statistics in mind, do you want to miss out on the potential sales your informed and engaged employees could afford your dealership?

Employees will only want to share your dealership with their networks if they fully understand the company mission. Ensuring your employees want to recommend your dealership means highlighting what makes your dealership the best one in the market so they feel comfortable sending their family, friends, and acquaintances to it.

Dealership executives aren’t the only ones who should focus on creating the best customer experience. ALL employees are brand ambassadors, even the ones who aren’t payed the most and have ample opportunities to interact directly with customers. This includes professionals on the sales floor, on the lot, in the service department, in the waiting room, or in the finance office.

Great managers market to employees so they gain an understanding of how their job connects the dealership to the customer. Every direct or indirect point of contact has the potential to make a customer feel more or less engaged with your dealership, and because sales and service employees are almost always in close proximity to customers, ensuring they want to make the customer experience a good one is imperative to the growth of your market and your dealership’s success.

Marketing to your employees has many benefits. Focus on making employees feel valued and convey your mission, goals, and what makes your dealership unique and prepare to be wowed by a highly engaged team, a lower turnover, a bigger market, and guaranteed great customer experiences.  

Social Media News for the Week of August 17

Twitter Character Limit

The private side of Twitter saw a big change this week, as the social media platform removed the 140-character limit from direct messages. While the public side of Twitter still carries the 140-character limit, users can now chat privately via Direct Messages without the character limitation. This functionality has rolled out across Android, iOS, twitter.com, TweetDeck, and Twitter for Mac and will continue to roll out worldwide over the coming weeks. To ensure you’re getting full Twitter functionality, be sure you’re using the latest version on your device. For dealerships, consider upping your Twitter presence and interacting with customers and potential shoppers via Direct Messages to answer questions and show the responsiveness of your customer service.

Google Hangouts 4.0 for Android

If you’re a Google Hangouts users, you’ll be happy to see the sleeker, faster look for Android. The new look also boasts improved speed, making even easier for users to reach the people they’re trying to get in touch with. Newest updates include items that respond to user touch in more intuitive ways, a brand-new Compose button that makes it easier to start a new group or conversation, a streamlined contacts list so users can find people quickly and easily, and simplified attachments to make sharing things like emojis and GIFs easy. Users get all these updates, and as an added bonus, Hangouts is faster and uses less battery than before. Smart dealerships will take advantage of Google Hangouts and post short videos, chat with customers, or even promote events to show off their marketing prowess.

Facebook High-Performing Ads in Audience Network

Facebook has expanded the ad types and formats available in the Audience Network, boasting better outcomes for those using the ads. The expansion includes native ads, which now represent over 80% of impressions in the Audience network, according to Facebook, and interstitials. Users can now bring autoplay video ads directly to their apps by upgrading to SDK for Android and iOS. Interstitial formats will include Dynamic Product Ads that display ads based on products that have been visited via website or app, Carousel Ads that showcase up to 5 images, and Click-to-Play Video. Dealerships can take advantage of these updates by targeting direct markets with relevant ads and measuring engagement on both desktop and mobile.

Over 10 Million Users on Periscope

A significant milestone, currently over 10 million users share and view live broadcasts on Periscope. According to the booming social giant, this equates to over 40 years of video watched per day—if the amount of time everyone spends were watching live broadcasts via iOS and Android were added up. Reflective of the way consumers receive and share information, this statistic is valuable for marketers and businesses looking to grow in today’s mobile world. For dealerships looking to connect with a mobile society, Periscope’s most recent milestone is an indication you’ll find success in sharing video, in focusing on mobile, and in creating relationships with your consumers.

Canva for Work

Many already knew about the accessible design features offered through Canva, and now the platform has launched Canva for Work. With over a million photos, graphics, and fonts available to users in a drag-and-drop format, the company is looking to become a staple in the corporate world as well as with individuals. Features aimed at businesses include a brand kit for logo and color palette creation and the Team Stream which allows users to share designs with other team members. Sharable files and folders make working and customizing across teams a snap. Dealerships that are currently collecting old clipart can delve into the world of Canva to create beautiful, eye-catching event flyers, and they can even be shared across your online social networks.

Buffer for Video

Buffer recently announced the addition of  buffer for Video, an upgrade that correlates nicely with the recent surge in social media videos across multiple platforms. Video has increased on Facebook by 360%, and a staggering 82% of Twitter users confirm watching video content. It was only a matter of time before Buffer customers were given the opportunity to upload, share, and schedule video—from Buffer to all their social media networks. This newest capability allows users to upload video content once and then share everywhere. Users are able to schedule content to Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, and LinkedIn simply by uploading their video content once on Buffer for Video. Dealerships looking to use video to grab shoppers’ attention can now save time by looking to Buffer for Video to share content across platforms.

Tip of the Week—Social Video 101

Have you ever wondered how to create a great video your viewers will want to watch? Have you thought about how to grab their attention and keep it while you share your dealership’s message? By using short videos to market your dealership, you’ll expand your reach and gain greater brand recognition. Video is simply that transformative.

The concept of using video to market your dealership can be overwhelming, but the key is to remember that no matter how small or large your dealership, there is a way to make video work for you. You’ve probably noticed the huge uptick in videos on your Facebook feed recently, and that’s because a majority of people on social media are looking to video to share and receive information. In fact, it’s predicted that 74% of all internet traffic will be video by 2017—which means that businesses wanting to get ahead need to be up-to-date and on trend when it comes to online marketing.

If you don’t know where to start or what to do, you’re not alone. Check out the tips below to help you gain traction and get rolling with video:

· You don’t need a recording studio. In fact, most phones can give you high-quality video output, especially if you’re doing a lot walk-around or a quick on-the-spot interview. For informal, short videos, don’t worry about high-tech equipment; instead focus on delivering a message that’s informative and helpful to your consumers.

· Plan your content and keep it short. Most consumers don’t have the attention span for a full-length movie, so be sure you get to the point and clearly let shoppers know what you’d like them to do. How can they get your great deal? Where can they contact you? Include a call to action, but leave out a long history of the dealership for this particular format.

· Tell a story. Instead of clobbering consumers with overt selling, tell a story instead. Let shoppers know what you can offer them by giving them a compelling narrative. Tell a story about a safety feature that saved the day or a memorable vacation when everyone piled into a particularly comfortable vehicle. There’s always a way to weave a story into your selling—and storytelling speaks to every consumer.

· Consider customer testimonials. Instead of you delivering a message to your audience every time, think about getting some of your best customers to offer their honest feedback about the service they’ve received at your dealership. Automotive is a great format for customer testimonials, and shoppers will enjoy seeing satisfied customers talk about their positive experiences.

· Be interesting. Think about the videos that capture your attention when you’re online. They’re the ones that do one of several things: they teach you something, make you laugh, answer a question, or offer you something. Give consumers a reason to watch your video, and they’ll tune in from beginning to end. Consider choosing a consumer question each day to answer. Or teach consumers about automotive maintenance. When you give shoppers something of value, they’ll come back for more.

· Keep it up. As you grow your online following, you’ll learn what your potential customers like and what they’re looking for in your videos. As you’re learning from the weekly social media updates, things are constantly changing, so it’s ok that your video strategy morphs and changes as you find your online niche. Just keep posting and reaching out to your potential customers, and you’ll win in the long run.

Video is a sweet spot in the social media realm that’s only expected to increase in the future. Just about every platform is boasting huge increases in video posting and interaction, and when you reach out to consumers in a way that’s relevant and appealing, your dealership will benefit. Don’t let the concept of social video overwhelm you; instead, embrace the powerful way it can increase your reach and connect you with your market.

Social Media News for the Week of August 17

Twitter Character Limit

The private side of Twitter saw a big change this week, as the social media platform removed the 140-character limit from direct messages. While the public side of Twitter still carries the 140-character limit, users can now chat privately via Direct Messages without the character limitation. This functionality has rolled out across Android, iOS, twitter.com, TweetDeck, and Twitter for Mac and will continue to roll out worldwide over the coming weeks. To ensure you’re getting full Twitter functionality, be sure you’re using the latest version on your device. For dealerships, consider upping your Twitter presence and interacting with customers and potential shoppers via Direct Messages to answer questions and show the responsiveness of your customer service.

Google Hangouts 4.0 for Android

If you’re a Google Hangouts users, you’ll be happy to see the sleeker, faster look for Android. The new look also boasts improved speed, making even easier for users to reach the people they’re trying to get in touch with. Newest updates include items that respond to user touch in more intuitive ways, a brand-new Compose button that makes it easier to start a new group or conversation, a streamlined contacts list so users can find people quickly and easily, and simplified attachments to make sharing things like emojis and GIFs easy. Users get all these updates, and as an added bonus, Hangouts is faster and uses less battery than before. Smart dealerships will take advantage of Google Hangouts and post short videos, chat with customers, or even promote events to show off their marketing prowess.

Facebook High-Performing Ads in Audience Network

Facebook has expanded the ad types and formats available in the Audience Network, boasting better outcomes for those using the ads. The expansion includes native ads, which now represent over 80% of impressions in the Audience network, according to Facebook, and interstitials. Users can now bring autoplay video ads directly to their apps by upgrading to SDK for Android and iOS. Interstitial formats will include Dynamic Product Ads that display ads based on products that have been visited via website or app, Carousel Ads that showcase up to 5 images, and Click-to-Play Video. Dealerships can take advantage of these updates by targeting direct markets with relevant ads and measuring engagement on both desktop and mobile.

Over 10 Million Users on Periscope

A significant milestone, currently over 10 million users share and view live broadcasts on Periscope. According to the booming social giant, this equates to over 40 years of video watched per day—if the amount of time everyone spends were watching live broadcasts via iOS and Android were added up. Reflective of the way consumers receive and share information, this statistic is valuable for marketers and businesses looking to grow in today’s mobile world. For dealerships looking to connect with a mobile society, Periscope’s most recent milestone is an indication you’ll find success in sharing video, in focusing on mobile, and in creating relationships with your consumers.

Canva for Work

Many already knew about the accessible design features offered through Canva, and now the platform has launched Canva for Work. With over a million photos, graphics, and fonts available to users in a drag-and-drop format, the company is looking to become a staple in the corporate world as well as with individuals. Features aimed at businesses include a brand kit for logo and color palette creation and the Team Stream which allows users to share designs with other team members. Sharable files and folders make working and customizing across teams a snap. Dealerships that are currently collecting old clipart can delve into the world of Canva to create beautiful, eye-catching event flyers, and they can even be shared across your online social networks.

Buffer for Video

Buffer recently announced the addition of  buffer for Video, an upgrade that correlates nicely with the recent surge in social media videos across multiple platforms. Video has increased on Facebook by 360%, and a staggering 82% of Twitter users confirm watching video content. It was only a matter of time before Buffer customers were given the opportunity to upload, share, and schedule video—from Buffer to all their social media networks. This newest capability allows users to upload video content once and then share everywhere. Users are able to schedule content to Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, and LinkedIn simply by uploading their video content once on Buffer for Video. Dealerships looking to use video to grab shoppers’ attention can now save time by looking to Buffer for Video to share content across platforms.

Tip of the Week—Social Video 101

Have you ever wondered how to create a great video your viewers will want to watch? Have you thought about how to grab their attention and keep it while you share your dealership’s message? By using short videos to market your dealership, you’ll expand your reach and gain greater brand recognition. Video is simply that transformative.

The concept of using video to market your dealership can be overwhelming, but the key is to remember that no matter how small or large your dealership, there is a way to make video work for you. You’ve probably noticed the huge uptick in videos on your Facebook feed recently, and that’s because a majority of people on social media are looking to video to share and receive information. In fact, it’s predicted that 74% of all internet traffic will be video by 2017—which means that businesses wanting to get ahead need to be up-to-date and on trend when it comes to online marketing.

If you don’t know where to start or what to do, you’re not alone. Check out the tips below to help you gain traction and get rolling with video:

· You don’t need a recording studio. In fact, most phones can give you high-quality video output, especially if you’re doing a lot walk-around or a quick on-the-spot interview. For informal, short videos, don’t worry about high-tech equipment; instead focus on delivering a message that’s informative and helpful to your consumers.

· Plan your content and keep it short. Most consumers don’t have the attention span for a full-length movie, so be sure you get to the point and clearly let shoppers know what you’d like them to do. How can they get your great deal? Where can they contact you? Include a call to action, but leave out a long history of the dealership for this particular format.

· Tell a story. Instead of clobbering consumers with overt selling, tell a story instead. Let shoppers know what you can offer them by giving them a compelling narrative. Tell a story about a safety feature that saved the day or a memorable vacation when everyone piled into a particularly comfortable vehicle. There’s always a way to weave a story into your selling—and storytelling speaks to every consumer.

· Consider customer testimonials. Instead of you delivering a message to your audience every time, think about getting some of your best customers to offer their honest feedback about the service they’ve received at your dealership. Automotive is a great format for customer testimonials, and shoppers will enjoy seeing satisfied customers talk about their positive experiences.

· Be interesting. Think about the videos that capture your attention when you’re online. They’re the ones that do one of several things: they teach you something, make you laugh, answer a question, or offer you something. Give consumers a reason to watch your video, and they’ll tune in from beginning to end. Consider choosing a consumer question each day to answer. Or teach consumers about automotive maintenance. When you give shoppers something of value, they’ll come back for more.

· Keep it up. As you grow your online following, you’ll learn what your potential customers like and what they’re looking for in your videos. As you’re learning from the weekly social media updates, things are constantly changing, so it’s ok that your video strategy morphs and changes as you find your online niche. Just keep posting and reaching out to your potential customers, and you’ll win in the long run.

Video is a sweet spot in the social media realm that’s only expected to increase in the future. Just about every platform is boasting huge increases in video posting and interaction, and when you reach out to consumers in a way that’s relevant and appealing, your dealership will benefit. Don’t let the concept of social video overwhelm you; instead, embrace the powerful way it can increase your reach and connect you with your market.

Hispanic Consumers Are Serious About Shopping

As marketers and businesses reach out to Hispanic consumers, one thing is clear: the range of shopping behaviors and attitudes among this segment of the population varies greatly depending on several factors. Shoppers show preferences based on factors such as what is being purchased, why they are purchasing, where they are purchasing, and who they are shopping with. This range of behavior provides a challenging task for those who are marketing to this demographic, with the best course of action being simply to gain the greatest possible consumer insights in order to effectively market to an ever-growing and diverse segment of society.

The Hispanic demographic is shopping, and while they have typically been known for their brand loyalty, more acculturated individuals are tending toward a less brand-loyal approach when it comes to spending their money. Previous generations have opted for loyalty when it comes down to brand, however, younger generations are making companies work harder for their loyalty, showing they are more willing to try new products and brands to find the options they prefer. According to Nielsen Homescan research, this difference is based largely on acculturation, with language being a specific defining factor. In other words, as individuals become more acculturated and more in tune with their new environment, they show less inclination toward brand loyalty and are more comfortable trying new products and brands. This finding stands out for brand leaders because they will need to focus on forging relationships with Hispanic consumers earlier in the acculturation process if they are seeking the typical brand loyalty for which these consumers have been known.

Many companies are realizing they are behind the curve when it comes to marketing to Hispanic shoppers, and with good reason. With a population of over 56 million in the U.S. identifying as Hispanic and a spending power cruising toward a solid $2 trillion by 2020, businesses have been slow to recognize the need to include the Hispanic buying market in their game plans. Now, it’s time to play catch-up, and it’s a frenzied race to see which brands will successfully connect with the Hispanic audience, now the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population.

The importance of creating an inclusive marketing platform cannot be overstated. Companies are often overly eager to jump on the multicultural bandwagon, and by skipping some very important steps, they feel they can be faster to market with their ideas. This is often a mistake that is costly in the long run, resulting in marketing that misses the mark with their Hispanic audience, or worse, is downright offensive due to cultural differences or language nuances. Yes, it’s important to prepare your marketing plan and be culturally inclusive, but at the same time, make sure you’ve covered all your bases and don’t get in a hurry.

Here are a few things marketers and businesses should know about their Hispanic market and the way their Hispanic consumers are shopping:

• Language choice is important. Although there are many Hispanic individuals in the U.S. who are highly acculturated and bilingual or English-dominant, many still feel a strong pull toward advertising with Spanish content, which can serve as a reminder of their family origin. Remember that not all of your advertising needs to be in Spanish, however, you should know your audience and plan thoughtfully created target-language content when appropriate. Whether in Spanish or English, content still has the power to reflect community, background, and culture, so aim for authenticity.

• Hispanic shoppers are early adopters of mobile technology and are extremely digitally savvy. They lead the pack when it comes to engaging online, sharing, and being socially connected. For your brand, this means you should strategically plan marketing that meets them where they are shopping and researching—online. Plan content that is mobile-friendly and offer video to capture their attention. On the go, it’s estimated that at least 72% of Hispanics own at least one mobile device, with several owning and being adept at using more than one. When targeting this market, remember technology is helping the Hispanic population do more of what they already do best—stay connected with friends and family.

• Hispanic shoppers, on the median, are younger than the rest of the population. 77% of Hispanics are under the age of 45, while only 57% of non-Hispanics are under age 45. The younger demographic continues to grow and use technology to their advantage for shopping and connecting, and businesses that focus on offering online social experiences while promoting their brands will be more successful with this audience.

• Culturally relevant messages resonate with Hispanic shoppers. By gaining an understanding of the culture and the things that are important to your consumers, you will be able to deliver more meaningful messages that help connect your audience with your products. The richer the experience you are able to provide, the more your message will resonate—ultimately allowing you to capture even more market opportunities and reach a larger audience.

What Consumers Are Buying

Let’s debunk the myth that high-end brands should not bother with marketing to the Hispanic population. Not only are Hispanic households—families earning more than $75,000 annually—have more than doubled in the past 10 years, and along with that, spending power continues to increase. However, marketing within the upscale brand community is decreasing—probably due to the failure of businesses to recognize and accept the spending power that resides with the Hispanic community.

Here’s a quick look at some of the things the Hispanic community is excited about purchasing:

Smartphones—At least half of Hispanic consumers in the U.S. own one.

Airline Tickets—Staying connected remains at the top of their list of priorities.

Books, Clothing, & Accessories—At least 6% spent more than $2,500 online in a 6-month period.

Vehicles—In 2013, Hispanic shoppers represented 20% of new vehicle sales.

As marketers and businesspeople, it’s time to get in the game with the Hispanic consumer. Making up 18% of the U.S. population, this segment is purchasing from businesses that can prove their relevance, demonstrate cultural awareness, and connect in a meaningful way through authentic messaging and product offerings. By raising the bar and giving Hispanic shoppers the authenticity and variety they are seeking, your business will be a strong contender in the marketplace.

Hispanic Consumers Are Serious About Shopping

As marketers and businesses reach out to Hispanic consumers, one thing is clear: the range of shopping behaviors and attitudes among this segment of the population varies greatly depending on several factors. Shoppers show preferences based on factors such as what is being purchased, why they are purchasing, where they are purchasing, and who they are shopping with. This range of behavior provides a challenging task for those who are marketing to this demographic, with the best course of action being simply to gain the greatest possible consumer insights in order to effectively market to an ever-growing and diverse segment of society.

The Hispanic demographic is shopping, and while they have typically been known for their brand loyalty, more acculturated individuals are tending toward a less brand-loyal approach when it comes to spending their money. Previous generations have opted for loyalty when it comes down to brand, however, younger generations are making companies work harder for their loyalty, showing they are more willing to try new products and brands to find the options they prefer. According to Nielsen Homescan research, this difference is based largely on acculturation, with language being a specific defining factor. In other words, as individuals become more acculturated and more in tune with their new environment, they show less inclination toward brand loyalty and are more comfortable trying new products and brands. This finding stands out for brand leaders because they will need to focus on forging relationships with Hispanic consumers earlier in the acculturation process if they are seeking the typical brand loyalty for which these consumers have been known.

Many companies are realizing they are behind the curve when it comes to marketing to Hispanic shoppers, and with good reason. With a population of over 56 million in the U.S. identifying as Hispanic and a spending power cruising toward a solid $2 trillion by 2020, businesses have been slow to recognize the need to include the Hispanic buying market in their game plans. Now, it’s time to play catch-up, and it’s a frenzied race to see which brands will successfully connect with the Hispanic audience, now the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population.

The importance of creating an inclusive marketing platform cannot be overstated. Companies are often overly eager to jump on the multicultural bandwagon, and by skipping some very important steps, they feel they can be faster to market with their ideas. This is often a mistake that is costly in the long run, resulting in marketing that misses the mark with their Hispanic audience, or worse, is downright offensive due to cultural differences or language nuances. Yes, it’s important to prepare your marketing plan and be culturally inclusive, but at the same time, make sure you’ve covered all your bases and don’t get in a hurry.

Here are a few things marketers and businesses should know about their Hispanic market and the way their Hispanic consumers are shopping:

• Language choice is important. Although there are many Hispanic individuals in the U.S. who are highly acculturated and bilingual or English-dominant, many still feel a strong pull toward advertising with Spanish content, which can serve as a reminder of their family origin. Remember that not all of your advertising needs to be in Spanish, however, you should know your audience and plan thoughtfully created target-language content when appropriate. Whether in Spanish or English, content still has the power to reflect community, background, and culture, so aim for authenticity.

• Hispanic shoppers are early adopters of mobile technology and are extremely digitally savvy. They lead the pack when it comes to engaging online, sharing, and being socially connected. For your brand, this means you should strategically plan marketing that meets them where they are shopping and researching—online. Plan content that is mobile-friendly and offer video to capture their attention. On the go, it’s estimated that at least 72% of Hispanics own at least one mobile device, with several owning and being adept at using more than one. When targeting this market, remember technology is helping the Hispanic population do more of what they already do best—stay connected with friends and family.

• Hispanic shoppers, on the median, are younger than the rest of the population. 77% of Hispanics are under the age of 45, while only 57% of non-Hispanics are under age 45. The younger demographic continues to grow and use technology to their advantage for shopping and connecting, and businesses that focus on offering online social experiences while promoting their brands will be more successful with this audience.

• Culturally relevant messages resonate with Hispanic shoppers. By gaining an understanding of the culture and the things that are important to your consumers, you will be able to deliver more meaningful messages that help connect your audience with your products. The richer the experience you are able to provide, the more your message will resonate—ultimately allowing you to capture even more market opportunities and reach a larger audience.

What Consumers Are Buying

Let’s debunk the myth that high-end brands should not bother with marketing to the Hispanic population. Not only are Hispanic households—families earning more than $75,000 annually—have more than doubled in the past 10 years, and along with that, spending power continues to increase. However, marketing within the upscale brand community is decreasing—probably due to the failure of businesses to recognize and accept the spending power that resides with the Hispanic community.

Here’s a quick look at some of the things the Hispanic community is excited about purchasing:

Smartphones—At least half of Hispanic consumers in the U.S. own one.

Airline Tickets—Staying connected remains at the top of their list of priorities.

Books, Clothing, & Accessories—At least 6% spent more than $2,500 online in a 6-month period.

Vehicles—In 2013, Hispanic shoppers represented 20% of new vehicle sales.

As marketers and businesspeople, it’s time to get in the game with the Hispanic consumer. Making up 18% of the U.S. population, this segment is purchasing from businesses that can prove their relevance, demonstrate cultural awareness, and connect in a meaningful way through authentic messaging and product offerings. By raising the bar and giving Hispanic shoppers the authenticity and variety they are seeking, your business will be a strong contender in the marketplace.

Earning Hispanic Consumer Trust Through Communication and Empowerment

Think about the brands that reach you and catch your attention, whether television ads, ink and paper, or online.  How do they speak to you?  How do they approach you as a consumer?  Chances are, your favorite products are delivered to you courtesy of companies that have taken considerable time and effort to ensure they are communicating with you in just the right way.  Companies that don’t do their homework and strive to communicate with and empower consumers in the marketplace are not the companies we see at the top of the leaderboard when it comes to consumer trust.

Over 56 million strong, the Hispanic population in the U.S. is growing and represents an economic force that should not be ignored by businesses.  Although most businesses are well aware of the spending power present in the Hispanic marketplace, a staggering number are unaware of how to communicate with a multicultural audience in a way that earns trust and consumer loyalty.  Many businesses, in their haste to meet the needs of the Hispanic consumer, have jumped into poorly planned marketing campaigns as a way of quickly offering a solution to growing markets, but there is a better way!

Before jumping into any campaign, marketers and businesses alike would be wise to take the words of Cuban American singer Pitbull to heart as he talks about Hispanic culture.  “The culture is amazing and its buying power is through the roof, but I think it’s about more than the buying power.  It’s about the real people.”  By taking into consideration the individuality of your market and focusing on the real people and authentic culture that form your customer base, you’ll make greater strides toward developing lasting consumer trust.

Getting Past the Buying Power

It’s true that the Hispanic population in the U.S. has tremendous buying power—$ 1.5 trillion approximately—but the companies that will be successful in connecting with this segment of the population are the ones that will forget about the buying power and focus on the people, the culture, and the communities behind the money.  For many, it’s nearly impossible to remove their “business hats” and forget about the bottom line for a moment, but by focusing on a true, authentic connection with the Hispanic population, the products and services they are selling are more likely to be accepted.

In the Hispanic community, relationships are forged over time, and trust is not earned without demonstrating authenticity and cultural awareness.  This means marketers will need to focus on where their priorities lie with shoppers.  Instead of forcing products on their Hispanic audience, marketers need to emphasize culture, values, and customs and empower the Hispanic population to make their buying decisions based on the brands that give them a voice.  It’s not as simple as defining a language and tossing advertising dollars at quick translations; instead, companies must be willing to invest more than money—they must invest more of themselves.

Building Consumer Trust

Several companies have figured out the keys to marketing successfully to the Hispanic consumer.  We need not look far to see leaders in the field (Nestle, Coca-Cola, Wal-Mart, McDonald’s), and they have done this by focusing on their consumers and staying true to their brand ideals, all the while presenting product aspects that appeal to their consumers.  For example, the McDonald’s “First Customer” advertisement was able to capture the importance of family in the Hispanic community as a mom and dad pull through the Drive-Thru and are the first customers at their teenaged son’s first job.  Not only did they show up to cheer him on, but they had their camera in tow and were taking pictures to help them remember the day.  In just one minute, McDonald’s captures the importance of family as well as an important milestone—all while integrating a few strategic Spanish words into the content.

Companies that are succeeding in reaching their Hispanic markets aren’t doing so by accident.  It takes time, market development, and careful planning to continuously close gaps that exist in marketing.  The Hispanic consumer in today’s market offers an opportunity for businesses that are willing to work and present authentic marketing solutions, but companies must realize it is more than a total market strategy, as the Hispanic market itself is extremely diverse and rich in culture and tradition.

As a starting place, marketers delving into the Hispanic market can look to the following tips for guidance:

• Integrate your Hispanic audience.  Rather than talking TOWARD them, include them in your campaign.  Give your campaigns a synergistic feeling from the beginning by planning inclusive content.

• Ensure your content reflects the culture of your audience.  Take things like country of origin, education, level of acculturation, traditions, and other factors into consideration when planning your message.

• Your message may not always need to be in Spanish.  Not all Hispanic shoppers speak Spanish, and likewise, not all Hispanic shoppers speak English; as a marketer, this puts you into a bit of a conundrum.  The only thing to do is get to know your audience.  Do research to determine whether the audience you are addressing is bilingual, Spanish-dominant, English-dominant—or even whether language usage changes at different times of day, depending whether speakers are at work or at home.

• Just as in all your marketing, find your influencers.  Hispanics are early adopters of technology and known for being influencers, so find out who can speak up for your brand and provide powerful word-of-mouth messaging.

• Be aware of family values as you deliver your content.  Hispanic consumers tend to have extremely close connections with family, and often different generations will live in a single household.  Consumers who are part of multi-generational households will find a family-centered business approach appealing.

• Present a strong brand value.  Once you have earned the trust of your Hispanic consumers, they tend to be brand loyal.  When a company is able to present strong brand values, it will likely enjoy more success in the Hispanic market.

The population in the U.S. is ever-changing, and those who are driven to succeed will continue to embrace change while engaging and encouraging every consumer to interact with their brands.  The leaders are those who will be willing to examine how they are reaching out, and they will commit to re-energizing their brands by communicating with and empowering consumers.

Want more information on reaching your Hispanic automotive consumer?  Check out our articles here.  Do you have a bilingual dealership?  FuzeCast is available in both English and Spanish to improve communication.  Call us today 1-855-313-2452 and see how you can put FuzeCast to work for your dealership!

Earning Hispanic Consumer Trust Through Communication and Empowerment

Think about the brands that reach you and catch your attention, whether television ads, ink and paper, or online.  How do they speak to you?  How do they approach you as a consumer?  Chances are, your favorite products are delivered to you courtesy of companies that have taken considerable time and effort to ensure they are communicating with you in just the right way.  Companies that don’t do their homework and strive to communicate with and empower consumers in the marketplace are not the companies we see at the top of the leaderboard when it comes to consumer trust.

Over 56 million strong, the Hispanic population in the U.S. is growing and represents an economic force that should not be ignored by businesses.  Although most businesses are well aware of the spending power present in the Hispanic marketplace, a staggering number are unaware of how to communicate with a multicultural audience in a way that earns trust and consumer loyalty.  Many businesses, in their haste to meet the needs of the Hispanic consumer, have jumped into poorly planned marketing campaigns as a way of quickly offering a solution to growing markets, but there is a better way!

Before jumping into any campaign, marketers and businesses alike would be wise to take the words of Cuban American singer Pitbull to heart as he talks about Hispanic culture.  “The culture is amazing and its buying power is through the roof, but I think it’s about more than the buying power.  It’s about the real people.”  By taking into consideration the individuality of your market and focusing on the real people and authentic culture that form your customer base, you’ll make greater strides toward developing lasting consumer trust.

Getting Past the Buying Power

It’s true that the Hispanic population in the U.S. has tremendous buying power—$ 1.5 trillion approximately—but the companies that will be successful in connecting with this segment of the population are the ones that will forget about the buying power and focus on the people, the culture, and the communities behind the money.  For many, it’s nearly impossible to remove their “business hats” and forget about the bottom line for a moment, but by focusing on a true, authentic connection with the Hispanic population, the products and services they are selling are more likely to be accepted.

In the Hispanic community, relationships are forged over time, and trust is not earned without demonstrating authenticity and cultural awareness.  This means marketers will need to focus on where their priorities lie with shoppers.  Instead of forcing products on their Hispanic audience, marketers need to emphasize culture, values, and customs and empower the Hispanic population to make their buying decisions based on the brands that give them a voice.  It’s not as simple as defining a language and tossing advertising dollars at quick translations; instead, companies must be willing to invest more than money—they must invest more of themselves.

Building Consumer Trust

Several companies have figured out the keys to marketing successfully to the Hispanic consumer.  We need not look far to see leaders in the field (Nestle, Coca-Cola, Wal-Mart, McDonald’s), and they have done this by focusing on their consumers and staying true to their brand ideals, all the while presenting product aspects that appeal to their consumers.  For example, the McDonald’s “First Customer” advertisement was able to capture the importance of family in the Hispanic community as a mom and dad pull through the Drive-Thru and are the first customers at their teenaged son’s first job.  Not only did they show up to cheer him on, but they had their camera in tow and were taking pictures to help them remember the day.  In just one minute, McDonald’s captures the importance of family as well as an important milestone—all while integrating a few strategic Spanish words into the content.

Companies that are succeeding in reaching their Hispanic markets aren’t doing so by accident.  It takes time, market development, and careful planning to continuously close gaps that exist in marketing.  The Hispanic consumer in today’s market offers an opportunity for businesses that are willing to work and present authentic marketing solutions, but companies must realize it is more than a total market strategy, as the Hispanic market itself is extremely diverse and rich in culture and tradition.

As a starting place, marketers delving into the Hispanic market can look to the following tips for guidance:

• Integrate your Hispanic audience.  Rather than talking TOWARD them, include them in your campaign.  Give your campaigns a synergistic feeling from the beginning by planning inclusive content.

• Ensure your content reflects the culture of your audience.  Take things like country of origin, education, level of acculturation, traditions, and other factors into consideration when planning your message.

• Your message may not always need to be in Spanish.  Not all Hispanic shoppers speak Spanish, and likewise, not all Hispanic shoppers speak English; as a marketer, this puts you into a bit of a conundrum.  The only thing to do is get to know your audience.  Do research to determine whether the audience you are addressing is bilingual, Spanish-dominant, English-dominant—or even whether language usage changes at different times of day, depending whether speakers are at work or at home.

• Just as in all your marketing, find your influencers.  Hispanics are early adopters of technology and known for being influencers, so find out who can speak up for your brand and provide powerful word-of-mouth messaging.

• Be aware of family values as you deliver your content.  Hispanic consumers tend to have extremely close connections with family, and often different generations will live in a single household.  Consumers who are part of multi-generational households will find a family-centered business approach appealing.

• Present a strong brand value.  Once you have earned the trust of your Hispanic consumers, they tend to be brand loyal.  When a company is able to present strong brand values, it will likely enjoy more success in the Hispanic market.

The population in the U.S. is ever-changing, and those who are driven to succeed will continue to embrace change while engaging and encouraging every consumer to interact with their brands.  The leaders are those who will be willing to examine how they are reaching out, and they will commit to re-energizing their brands by communicating with and empowering consumers.

Want more information on reaching your Hispanic automotive consumer?  Check out our articles here.  Do you have a bilingual dealership?  FuzeCast is available in both English and Spanish to improve communication.  Call us today 1-855-313-2452 and see how you can put FuzeCast to work for your dealership!