Facebook Stories for Car Dealers: The Ultimate Guide for 2023

In this guide, we'll take you through all the ins and outs of Facebook Stories and how they can help you reach more customers, generate more leads and ultimately sell more cars. From the basics of what Facebook Stories are, to exactly how to record and create them step-by-step, and the best practices for creating engaging stories that resonate with your customers, we've got it all covered.

Introduction: Why Facebook Stories are Essential for Car Dealers in 2023

What are Facebook stories?

Simply put, Facebook Stories are a way to share a series of photos or videos that disappear after 24 hours. Think of it like a digital storybook that you can create and share with your audience. And the best part? No one has to know if you make a mistake – the story disappears in a day!

We recommend Facebook Stories to car dealers as the perfect way to showcase your cars and services in a snap, without getting bogged down in all the marketing mumbo jumbo. Think of it like this: you know about a particularly snazzy car you have coming in stock. You whip out your phone, take a few snaps and post them to your Facebook Story. Your customers can see it, and then poof! It's gone the next day. It's that simple!

Why should a dealership even consider using Facebook stories?

Why should a dealership even consider using Facebook Stories? Well, let me tell you, it's like having a secret weapon in your digital marketing arsenal!

Facebook Stories is a great way to give your dealership a boost on the Facebook algorithm. What does that mean? Your posts, videos, and inventory on Facebook marketplace will be seen by more people, for free, if you keep posting stories.

You may already know you should be posting on your page regularly, but how often do you think about posting stories?

The algorithm loves to see a page that's using all of its features, and using Facebook Stories is like a big tick in the "yes" box for the algorithm.

Even better, using Facebook Stories can give you a competitive edge. Your dealership's competitors locally are unlikely to be using stories (unless they are very social media savvy), so get on it before they do.

This means more followers, and ultimately, more customers.

When were Facebook stories launched?

Facebook Stories was launched on 28th March, 2017.

At this time, Facebook were worried about competition from other platforms such as Snapchat, and they had already launched their Instagram Stories feature to great success, so they brought this feature to the Facebook platform also.

What are the alternatives to Facebook stories?

Some alternatives to Facebook stories include:

• Instagram stories

• Snapchat stories
  These platforms also allow you to share short-form, disappearing videos or pictures of your dealership or inventory, that disappear within 24 hours.

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What are the different Facebook story features car dealers can use?

Let's go through the 7 different features you can use in your Facebook Stories.

1. Picture - Simply put, it's a photo that you take and share on your story. Think of it like a quick snap of what's going on, or a picture worth a thousand words.
2. Video - A video story is just like a picture story, but with movement and sound! Show off a new car, or take folks on a tour of your dealership.
3. Text - Want to add some extra info to your story, but don't want to use your voice? Use text! You can add a witty caption, or share some important details about a new vehicle.
4. Music - Add some extra pep to your story by including a tune! You can choose from Facebook's library, or upload your own.
5. Green Screen - Want to make a video, but don't want to show the background? No worries, just use a green screen! It's like magic, the background disappears and you can add whatever you like.
6. Boomerang - A boomerang is a fun little looping video. It's perfect for showing off a car revving its engine, a car door opening and closing again, a car driving onto the forecourt...
7. Selfie - If you're feeling bold, why not add a selfie to your story? Let your customers get to know the face behind the dealership, and show off your personality.

Who wrote the article, "Facebook Stories for Car Dealers: The Complete Guide for 2023"?

My name is Gary Lewis Cheetham, an automotive marketing specialist with over 10 years of experience in the car industry. I am the founder of GL Digital Automotive Marketing, and now help independent car dealers in the UK and US with online marketing strategies.

My goal is to help car dealers like you rev up your sales and reach new customers. I've got a strong connection to the car trade, having worked in my dad's dealership as a lad and I've got a passion for the industry that's only grown stronger over the years. I've put my knowledge to good use, developing effective strategies for engaging potential customers and building a strong online presence for car dealerships, including the use of new tech like Facebook Stories.

Understanding Facebook Stories: A Primer for Car Dealers

What are the differences between Facebook Stories and other Facebook Features?

Facebook Stories are like quick snaps, which disappear after 24 hours, while Facebook Posts are like writing a letter, Facebook Videos are like movies, and Facebook Live is like a live broadcast.

What are the features of Facebook stories that are important for car dealers?

Facebook Stories are like the 99 flake in your dealership's digital marketing Mr Whippy! And there are a few key features that make them especially sweet for car dealers.

• Facebook Stories appear at the top of your follower's feeds

• Facebook Stories disappear after 24 hours

• Facebook Stories include interactive elements
  First up, there's the "24-hour rule". Facebook Stories disappear after 24 hours, making them perfect for sharing quick updates and news about your dealership. No need to worry about them clogging up your page forever!

Next, there's the interactive elements. You can add polls, quizzes, and even the option for your followers to ask questions, making Facebook Stories a great way to engage with your audience and get feedback on your cars or dealership.

And finally, there's the reach. Facebook Stories appear at the top of your followers' news feed, so they're more likely to see them than regular Facebook posts. It's like having a sign over the entrance to your dealership!

How to Create Facebook Stories for Car Dealers: Step by Step

The easiest way to start is to log in to your dealership's page on the Facebook app and use your smartphone to post stories.

A dealership we work with lets every salesman log in on their phone, and they can post stories when and how they please.

Make sure your dealership's Facebook page is set up, and optimised first. Creating stories is no good if your page itself is lacking, we have a full guide for this here.

How to post a Facebook story on your Dealership's Facebook Page

First, open the Facebook App, and go to the "menu" on the bottom right of the screen.

Then, switch into your dealership's Facebook page by tapping the little icon with two arrows around it.

Now, tap "Create Story".

Now click the big "Camera" button at the bottom of the screen, or select one of the options at the top.

Point and shoot, it's time to film your story!

Best Practices for Creating Engaging Facebook Stories for Car Dealers

Now you know how to create stories, here are some best practices that are sure to make your Facebook Stories attract the most customers:

• Do it every day: Facebook Stories are most effective when you post them every day, and followers know they can expect new content

• Don't overthink it: Remember, Facebook Stories are meant to be quick and candid, so don't stress too much about the perfect shot or script. Just grab your phone, be yourself and show off your dealership's personality.

• Keep it short and sweet: Facebook Stories are quick, snackable content. Keep your videos under 15 seconds and your images concise. After all, who has time for a novel in their Facebook feed?

• Put your salesmen on camera: Use your dealership's tone of voice and show off your unique personality. This will help you build a connection with your followers and make your Facebook Stories stand out.

How can you showcase your cars and services in an engaging way?

Instead of just listing out specs and features, why not give a virtual test drive? Let your customers see what it feels like to sit behind the wheel, or take them on a tour of your service centre.

Showcase the creativity of your team by having them put together a fun video showcasing your latest models.

You could even ask customers to share their own experiences with your dealership, creating a "word-of-mouth" type vibe. Just have fun with it and your followers will surely be engaged.

How do you create visually appealing stories for Facebook?

Let's get one thing straight: you don't need to have the latest fancy camera to take great photos for your Facebook stories. All you need is your trusty smartphone, a pinch of creativity and a dash of good lighting!

Think about it, the photos you take on your phone are probably better quality than what your grandparents had in their photo albums.

Car dealerships tend to be dark inside, so just make sure your photos and videos are well-lit. If you want to step it up a notch, grab yourself a cheap LED light on Amazon.

6 free Facebook Story Ideas for your Car Dealership

Running low on ideas for your Facebook Stories? No worries! I've got some freebies for you.

• Showcase your dealership's latest arrivals

• Engine noises. Everyone loves engine noises.

• Promote a special offer or discounted stock

• Give a sneak peek into what goes on behind the scenes, whether it's a day in the life of a salesperson or a walk-around of your showroom.

• Show your cars being valeted and washed as they come in

• Show quick repairs happening or give quick tips on what makes certain models different or unique

Conclusion: The Future of Facebook Stories for Car Dealers in 2023 and Beyond

We've reached the end of our article covering the world of Facebook stories for car dealers! By now, you should have a pretty good idea of what Facebook stories are all about and how they can benefit your dealership.

So what are the key takeaways from today? Firstly, remember that Facebook stories are a fantastic way to reach potential customers and build your online presence.

Secondly, don't be intimidated by the tech side of things, you don't need a fancy camera or any marketing know-how, just your trusty smartphone will do!

And finally, the most important thing is to have fun with it. Don't take it all too seriously, show your personality, and let your customers get a glimpse into the world of your dealership. Who knows, you might just surprise yourself with the results!

So there you have it, the lowdown on Facebook stories for car dealers in 2023 and beyond. I hope this has been a help and don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.

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