The New Google Search Results
Recently, Google made a major change in how it displays listings. Local searches no longer show a small map with a few local businesses followed by the search results. The map listings are now displayed with the organic search results and also appear at the top of the listings. Every business either has a page or may add their business to Google Places. These Google Places listings also prominently display business reviews.
As pictured above, the Google Places listings are better integrated with the organic search engine results listings. This new Google algorithm determines the order of the Google Places listings in the results. Sponsored links (Google Adwords) have been moved to the lower section of the page. Additionally, the number of consumer reviews appear directly to the right of the listing. Another improvement includes the visibility of the phone numbers and addresses of businesses.

So, how does this affect your dealership? Beyond the layout changes it gives the consumer a platform to rate your dealership, the significance of which should not be overlooked! It will be critical to manage your dealership reviews. While you can’t respond directly to a negative consumer review, you can still click the ‘Rate and Review’ link to add a response. Simply note that your entry is in response to a particular consumer review. We suggest you explain your side of the issue and what you did or are willing to do to help the consumer. Keep your response brief, professional and stay on point. Explaining how you helped the customer resolve the issue will help neutralize that negative review by showing your responsiveness to the situation. In addition, the topic of consumer reviews on Google search results should be addressed regularly with your staff as part of your online reputation management strategy.

Your Google Places page can be optimized to generate the best results for your dealership. If you would like further assistance, please give us a call. We offer Automotive SEO packages and custom packages to fit every dealer’s need.

How To Increase Your Internet Sales
According to an "Auto Dealer Monthly" article by Joe Chura, the way to increase and even double your sales is not by finding the 'magical pill' but by creating a proactive sales-focused plan and implementing it consistently. The following are the steps Joe recommends for increased internet sales:

1. Answer all of your leads with a phone call. If the person does not want to talk, they will tell you, but chances are if they gave you their phone number, they are okay with someone calling.
2. Write grammatically correct emails. Misspelled or poorly written emails can turn off customers and convey a less-than professional image. Control the controllable and make sure you portray an intelligent and professional image.
3. Answer the customer’s questions. If someone asks a specific question in their email, make sure you specifically address it.
4. Work on the items that will nurture a lead or end in a sale. Don’t give up on leads if they haven’t purchased after three days.
5. Don’t procrastinate when calling a customer back. It is better to over-communicate than not to contact them in a timely manner.