While the core principles of automotive SEO have remained fairly constant in the last several years. In fact, the expert advice we shared as a 4th consecutive Google Premier Partner then is still very much relevant as a 6th consecutive Google Premier Partner and #1 automotive SEO company now. That said, 2024 demands a refreshed approach. It’s time we move beyond the “weird times” narrative and focus on actionable strategies to propel your dealership’s online presence.

Here at Dealer Teamwork, we believe Total Search™ is the future of digital marketing: where SEO and SEM work together as ONE. It’s an approach that integrates organic search engine optimization (SEO) and paid search engine marketing (SEM) as a single channel. In this article, we’ll focus on providing more up-to-date SEO insights for car dealerships in 2024.

DIFFERENT TIMES

Today’s automotive market is a whirlwind of shifting inventory, skyrocketing used car prices, and fierce competition. In this climate, effective SEO is your secret weapon for attracting local buyers and driving conversions. But let’s face it, the world of SEO can feel like an impossibly long and winding road. So, we’re moving past the confusing jargon and vague promises – towards the following easy roadmap to SEO strategies that will actually boost your dealership’s online presence.

Local SEO & Google My Business Mastery:

Forget chasing national keyword rankings. Your focus should be on dominating local search. Optimize your Google Business Profile (GBP) profile like a pro:

• Complete your profile: This is crucial for local search visibility. Fill in every detail, ensure accurate contact information, engaging posts, include operating hours and high-quality photos, and utilize Q&A.
• Claim your service and parts profiles: Expand your reach beyond sales and attract service and parts customers.
• NAP consistency is key: Ensure your business Name, Address, and Phone number are exactly the same across your website, online profiles, and directories.
• Track your results: Use GBP Insights to analyze your profile’s performance and see how local customers are interacting with you with clicks and calls through website button CTA tagging and phone tracking.

On-Site SEO Optimization for Peak Conversions:

Organic traffic is gold. But not all traffic is created equal. Here’s how to attract high-intent buyers with your website:

• Prioritize transactional and commercial keywords: Focus on keywords that signal purchase intent, like “Honda Accord lease deals near me” rather than “best cars for fuel efficiency.”
• Simplify navigation: Make it easy for users to find what they need with a clean, user-friendly website structure.
• Internal linking: Connect relevant pages with strategic links to guide users through your content and funnel them towards conversions.
• Technical SEO TLC: Fix broken links, optimize page loading speeds, and ensure your website is mobile-friendly. Search engines love a clean and efficient site.

Measuring Your SEO Success:

You’ve heard it said before, and it’s true: SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. Tracking your progress is crucial for staying motivated, seeing what works, and gaining as well as maintaining momentum. Here’s how to measure your success:

• Focus on relevant KPIs:  Give less weight to vanity metrics like total website visits and prioritize metrics that matter, like organic leads generated, phone calls from website visits, and conversions from organic search.
• Monitor keyword ranking improvements: Track your progress on targeted keywords that drive qualified traffic and conversions.
• Go beyond rankings: Analyze the outcomes of your organic traffic. Are users taking the desired actions, like submitting contact forms or visiting your dealership?

Beware of SEO Red Flags:

Run for the hills if you encounter these warning signs:

• Lack of transparency: Your SEO provider should clearly explain their strategy, provide regular reports, and answer your questions openly.
• Vague or misleading reports: Don’t fall for generic, automated reports that paint an unclear picture of your SEO performance.
• Overblown promises: Be wary of providers who guarantee quick fixes or unrealistic results.

Final Thoughts:

In 2024, a successful automotive SEO strategy is all about local dominance, targeted content, and measurable results. By implementing these actionable tips and avoiding common red flags, you can transform your dealership into a local search powerhouse and attract a steady stream of qualified buyers. Remember, SEO is an ongoing journey, so keep learning, adapting, and optimizing your efforts. The road to dealership success starts with a well-executed SEO strategy.

Tips:

• Remember the Paid side of Total Search™ for campaign boosts that won’t compete with or drive up the cost of a comprehensive and cohesive strategy.
• Leverage social media: Engage your local community and drive traffic to your website through targeted social media campaigns.
• Invest in high-value content: Relevant pages and adding high-quality video showcasing your inventory and services can significantly increase engagement and conversions.
• Stay up-to-date: The SEO landscape is constantly evolving. Keep yourself informed about the latest trends and best practices by following industry news and attending relevant conferences.

Follow these tips and stay proactive to ensure your dealership is always ahead of the curve of automotive SEO.

Need help evaluating your current SEO situation? It starts with a close look at your website. >>>>Let Dealer Teamwork provide our infamous free audit.<<<<<< What we find might surprise you. Whether for better or worse, either way you’ll be armed with a checklist specific to your dealership with a plan to make 2024 YOUR year to surpass your best year of online success yet.