March 15th, 2012

It is a well-known fact that abbreviations and emoticons are often used in every day conversations. From texting to emailing, this lingo has become popular across all generations and forms of media. So, when is it appropriate to use emoticons in an automotive live chat conversation?

There is one golden rule that you must always keep in mind in live chat: do not use emoticons or abbreviations unless the chatter uses them first. However, this rule can be applied loosely depending on the vibe each chat participant gives off during the conversation. If you are having a great conversation and acquire all the contact information effortlessly, an emoticon or abbreviation here and there could help, not hinder, your chat. This new way of communicating in live chat can give off positive feelings in the conversation and can be a great way to build a relationship with the web shopper.

February 13th, 2012

Auto dealers know the follow-up process is one of the most critical elements of lead conversion.  This is especially true for leads generated through automotive live chat.  To be successful in this business and build trust with consumers, dealers must follow-up with leads quickly and be precise and specific in their communication.  For leads generated from automotive live chat, the chat transcript holds vital information about the prospect’s desires and how far along he or she is in the conversion funnel.

But, how can auto dealers be specific, personal and build trust in a timely manner?

January 24th, 2012

The benefits of automotive live chat for your dealership website’s sales process are pretty clear.  But, have you thought about what automotive live chat can do for your dealership service department?

As you know, your dealership service department is essential to the success of your dealership.  Service centers and/or body shops bring in vital revenue for dealers, often accounting for a majority of a dealership’s profit.  Yet, it is very possible that your service department’s resources are already stretched to the limit, inhibiting the amount of service leads and appointments your dealership is able to generate.

January 17th, 2012

Right now, automotive dealerships across the globe are seeking ways to sell more vehicles in a market that appears to be on the upswing.  2012 will see a majority of dealerships dedicating more resources to their Internet business in order to take advantage of seemingly limitless growth of the Internet marketplace.

“Over the last two years more dealers have come round to realizing the power of the web and its ability to generate genuine income opportunities,” said Tim Smith of GForces, the specialist web software agency for the UK car retailing sector, in a recent article on MotorTrader.com.