Email marketing strategies remain a powerful tool for automotive dealerships, but the strategies that worked yesterday might not cut it in the ever-changing digital landscape. At a recent marketing conference, I picked up some incredible tips tailored to help your dealership boost open rates, drive engagement, and, most importantly, sell more cars!
Here’s how you can rev up your email marketing strategies in 2025:
1. Craft Attention-Grabbing “From Names”
Your “from name” can significantly impact whether your email gets opened. A catchy, relevant sender name can make your dealership stand out in a crowded inbox.
Examples for Dealerships:
– Brand + Offer: “Sunshine Honda 72-Hour Sale”
– First Name + Brand: “Michael at Prestige Motors”
– Brand + Industry: “Luxury Auto Trends by Prestige BMW”
Impact on Open Rates:
– Brand + Offer: +21%
– First Name + Brand: +24%
– Brand + Urgency (e.g., sale): +16%
2. Use Negative Wording in Subject Lines
Negative subject lines often create urgency and pique curiosity, making them highly effective.
Examples for Automotive Campaigns:
– Standard: “Check Out Our New Line of SUVs”
– Negative: “Why Your Current SUV Might Be Costing You More”
Other ideas include:
– “The Mistakes Most Buyers Make When Leasing”
– “Why Your Trade-In Could Be Worth Less Than You Think”
– “Stop Overpaying for Outdated Models”
3. Combine AI with Slang & Emojis
To stand out in a world of AI-generated content, add a human touch with conversational language, slang, and emojis.
Examples:
– “Why are you ghosting me? 👻 Test drive our new EVs today.”
– “Uh Oh, Your Lease is Ending – Here’s What to Do Next.”
Impact on Open Rates:
Slang for B2C:
– “GlowUp Your Ride”: +21%
– “Vibes of a New Sedan”: +20%
Slang for B2B:
– “Amp Up Your Fleet Efficiency”: +20%
– “The Chef’s Kiss of Work Trucks”: +19%
4.Upgrade Your Call-to-Actions (CTAs)
Standard CTAs like “Schedule a Test Drive” or “Apply for Financing” can feel transactional. Instead, make your CTAs resonate with your audience.
Examples:
– Instead of “Schedule a Test Drive,” try “I’m Ready to Drive in Style.”
– Instead of “See Our Inventory,” try “Show Me the Cars That Fit My Style.”
5. Offer Value First with the “Gift, Gift, Ask” Approach
Email marketing strategies aren’t just about sales pitches. Build trust by providing value first.
How It Works:
- Email 1: Offer advice, like “5 Tips to Maximize Your Trade-In Value.”
- Email 2: Share helpful content, such as “How to Choose Between Leasing and Buying.”
- Email 3: Make the ask, like “Schedule a VIP Test Drive at Our Dealership.”
6.Highlight Testimonials in Subject Lines
Subject lines that feature customer success stories can drive higher open rates.
Examples for Dealerships:
– “Transformed My Commute with This Amazing SUV 🌟”
– “Saved $5,000 on My Dream Car 💰”
– “Exceeded All Expectations – Thrilled Driver”
7. Stay Out of the Promotions Tab
Certain phrases can land your email in the Promotions or Spam tab, reducing visibility.
Words to Avoid:
– “Event Registration Confirmed”
– “Exclusive Test Drive Offer”
– “Meeting Invite”
Instead, opt for alternatives like “Let’s Plan Your Test Drive!”
8. Watch for Changes in Pre-Headers
With Apple planning to remove custom pre-headers, dealerships need to adapt their email marketing strategies. Focus on writing strong subject lines that can stand alone if pre-headers become less reliable.
Rev Up Your Email Marketing Strategies
Email marketing for automotive dealerships doesn’t have to feel outdated or transactional. By incorporating these email marketing strategies, you’ll not only improve your open and click-through rates but also build stronger connections with your customers, driving loyalty and sales.
Need help navigating these changes? Let’s discuss how to implement these email marketing strategies for your dealership!
For more tips or a full list of words to avoid in emails, reach out—I’d be happy to share additional insights.