After my "best idea" win at DSES (thank you again, Driving Sales!) I've got lots of messages about how to capture customers from coast to coast with VR videos. It only made sense to break it down for you. You can view my winning presentation here! The process is simple, and can be completed in minimal steps.

The idea began when we started receiving e-leads from different provinces and cities all over Canada. How did we sell to people we would never have the chance to meet? And even better, WHY would they chose us over their local dealers for purchase? 

We started out with Google Cardboards, and Youtube videos shot on cellphones. The app "VR Converter" converts the videos to being VR capable, and it's a FREE download on either Apple or Android devices. It was a simple, cost effective way that allowed customers to transport in to our dealership and "meet" us. The response was positive, and we captured a lot of out of town sales.

The downside of Google Cardboards? The wait. You don't get an instant transaction, which let's face it, some salesmen will want. The customer has to wait to receive the cardboard in the mail, and then manually put it together - that being said, if you send them the instructions, and some content to keep them engaged, most will be happy to wait! 

We saw the biggest success when we invested in a 360 Camera. This took our video quality from low res, to high, professional quality videos that put the customer in control. The 360 camera creates videos that are similar to a Google Map view meaning the customer can spin the video around, and see whatever feature of the vehicle they want no matter WHAT the salesman is focusing on. It makes for a completely transparent vehicle walk around, and a VERY interactive test drive! You can even look out their windows as though you are riding shot gun. 

The videos again can be uploaded to YouTube or Google Drive. YouTube actually has a "googles" feature meaning if you're sending a 360 video with cardboards, you customer can click the google view and watch a professional VR video. Here is a similar camera to the one we purchased. 

It's THAT simple to be trendy, digital forward, and engaging. 

-- A 360 camera or cell phone
-- FREE app (VR Converter)
-- Your choice to include Google Cardboards or send it in real time 
-- Google Drive or YouTube

After this, we would send dealership walkarounds, introducing their Business Manager, our shop, and body shop. The possibilities are endless of what you can do, and hopefully you start delivering as many vehicles coast-to-coast as we do! 

Have you tried selling via videos and VR? Drop your comments below and tell me what you're doing to stay on the digital forefront!