Jim Lecinski created an amazing PDF for his ZMOT concept:
http://www.zeromomentoftruth.com/google-zmot.pdf

This video was RePosted from ZeroMomentOfTruth on YouTube

Social Media & Sales: A Good Combination Automotive Digest Inverviews Phil DuPree, President of AutoUsa

‘KONY 2012′ Tops 100 Million Views, Becomes the Most Viral Video in History [STUDY]

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shWith more than 100 million views in six days, Kony 2012, a 30-minute documentary about Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony, has become the most viral video in history, according to one researcher

In a blog post, Visible Measures found Kony outpaced other record-setting viral videos. For instance the video featuring Susan Boyle on Britain’s Got Talent in 2009, hit 70 million views in six days. Old Spice’s “Responses” campaign didn’t hit 70 million until five months after it launched.

Visible Measures got its figures by tracking not just the original Vimeo version of Kony, but also responses to the video. By March 8, three days after Kony went live, there were 200 such responses, which ran six minutes on average. The video has also netted more than 500,000 comments.

Despite the rapid rise of Kony 2012, the video has brought a shower of criticism to Invisible Children, the organization behind it. Many of the negative critiques have been targeted at Invisible Children’s practices as an organization, not whether Joseph Kony, the leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army, is a war criminal.

In particular, a Tumblr blog called Visible Children, outlined how just 32% of Invisible Children’s money went to direct services, while the rest went to staff salaries and other overhead.

Invisible Children responded with a blog post outlining its expenses. The post didn’t dispute the 32% figure, but illustrated how another 26% went to “awareness programs.”

KONY 2012 from INVISIBLE CHILDREN on Vimeo.

http://www.dealersynergy.com
If There is ANYONE who thinks Social Media is NOT Important, Valuable, Amazing, Useful, Needed - WATCH THIS VIDEO!

I was BLOWN away by this video!
If they can accomplish ALL of that... You can ALL leverage Social Media for your dealership(s).

*** PLEASE FORWARD THIS VIDEO TO EVERYONE YOU CAN!!

I Just saw this commercial on CNN a couple of minutes ago and it is EXACTLY the TYPE of Commercial that Auto Dealers should be doing on TV and online...

It seems that someone at Midas has been paying attention to Google's ZMOT Philosophy. People are talking about things they like and do not like on social media, on cell phones via a myriad of apps and sites. Dealers need to embrace this culture and reality.

Usually when I construct posts here on AIS, I usually like to include several statistics regarding the topic. Not this time. While there are several studies (I'm sure) on the subject of reputation management and responding to criticism on social media, I would rather this be more of a logical post. Once more, I'd also like everyone's feedback as well. So, here goes....

In 2012, when a customer's displeased with your dealership, chances are he/she will head straight to the social media-sphere. They want to share their anger with others. We've all seen it before. They'll not only post it on your dealership's Google Place page, but they'll also wander over to your Facebook and Twitter pages to voice their opinion. How exactly do you respond to their criticism? 

Some like to respond by, essentially, not responding. They like to bury the customer's post. This simply means instead of addressing the concern, the dealership posts content on top of the complaint. Some may even go so far as to delete it the complaint, altogether. The customer catches on and then, you have to block the customer.

I believe if the customer is sharing a logical complaint: "Manager rubbed me wrong way" or "Service dept didn't address my concerns." Then, you should definitely engage. There's no use ignoring a situation that can be resolved with just a few sentences. "I'd love to take care of this for you. Would mind if we called you?" Chances are that the customer won't forget you and your dealership if you just hear them out and try to address their concerns.

I'm not naive, however. I realize some customers aren't so civil. Some turn out to be social media abusers. They'll go on your dealership's page and post profane comments over and over. Some (I know firsthand) create fake accounts just to post more profanity. I believe this is the only time it's acceptable to hit that block button. That person is only there to complain. They're not posting for help. They're posting to drag your name out in the mud. Block and move on. 

*After perusing this post, I'd recommend checking out Seth Godin's Blog Post on this matter: Engaging with Criticism

So, what do you think? Immediately delete the complaint or engage and learn?

With the rollout of the Facebook timeline complete for personal profiles, Facebook has now, quite brilliantly, pivoted their attention onto brand pages, which is why when you logged in this morning, you saw the little notice at the top of your Fan Page saying:

"On March 30, 2012, all Facebook Pages will get a new design. Preview your page now to see what it looks like and try out the new features."

Effective next month, your dealership's fan page will have a fundamentally different look. You see those cool tabs underneath your dealership's profile picture ("Inventory", "Welcome", "Photos", etc)? Those tabs will no longer be there once you activate the Timeline look. Your entire page will be rearranged. While this does sound a bit scary, especially to those who have put ample time into designing interactive tabs for pages, there is a distinct advantage. Of course, I'm talking about the Cover Photo. 

The Cover Photo is the photo at the top of your current Personal Facebook page (assuming your page has the Timeline feature). Essentially, the cover photo is replacing your welcome tab. It will be the first thing everyone sees when they visit your page. You'll have your own virtual billboard. A billboard with no limits, except for size :) You can play around with the cover photo until it suits your dealership's needs. You can design one in which you're Thanking your customers, or one in which you featuring a quote from a satisfied customer, and or just a simple variation your current Profile picture. There's so much you can do with it to benefit your brand. 

The Facebook Timeline manager, Sam Lessin, had this to say regarding the new rapid change, "Organizations have identities too." And, he's completely right. Thanks to the implementation of the Timeline for Brand Pages, you'll be able to distinguish yourself from your competitors. With the cover photo (billboard!), you'll be able to brand your dealership in a much more effect way.

What do you think of the Timeline rollout for Brand Pages? Are you on board with it? Or, still partial to the traditional Fan Page?

Source: Facebook Timeline Brand Pages are Here [Mashable]

The trend for the last 3 or 4 years has been for businesses to try to tap into social media as a broadcasting tool. It's not universal, but many (most) see social media as a place to post their messages to prospective clients in hopes of switching on the social media faucet that touches a billion people worldwide.

The promise of social media for businesses, particularly local ones, has only been seen by a small percentage. Most believe there's something there, but they aren't certain that their efforts are going anywhere. In many cases, they're not. It's not that social media is so challenging that only the select few can get in, nor is it that there's no value in it.

It's about intention. Those with the intention of sheer marketing with social media will likely be met with limited rewards. People don't go to Facebook or Twitter to see what they want to buy or which services to select. They go to engage, to have fun, and to experience the virtual filter on the real world that social media has to offer them.

In other words, they don't want to see marketing. If and when they're ready to interact with a business through social media, it's because they have questions or needs that can be fulfilled through easy-access communication. This is the part that most businesses are missing.

The real promise of social media is not just to business, but lies an the center between business and consumer. More internet time is spent on social media than any other category; in fact, it's equal to the next three on the list (games, email, and portals) combined.

Businesses want to take advantage of this fact and many are trying, but customer service management is still 3rd on the list of initiatives they perform on social media with brand reputation management and driving promotions above it. This is backwards. Most businesses can achieve their top two goals by focusing on the customers themselves.

It comes down to a lack of understanding. Those who are able to focus their attention on their customers through social media will gain a better reputation and find it easier to broadcast their promotions as a result. It's counter-intuitive to all other forms of interactions with customers, but it makes sense once one realizes the true capacity of the medium.

 (Click Link for InfoGraph) http://www.tkcarsites.com/support-gets-social-pid21494

A few weeks ago, I came across a study titled: "Social Media Data Stacks" sponsored by the folks over at Hubspot. Now, as a social media analyst, I thought it was worth taking a look at, since social media is always changing and evolving. Instead of boring you with each detail and statistic, I just want to touch on the few that caught my eye and how these stats can you help form and enhance your social media strategy. 

1) Females 18-34 are most active on social networking sites

This is marketing 101. You need to know your demographic. Who's navigating the social media universe? Well, according to this study, women are more active on Facebook, twitter. Not so much Google+, though. Regardless, if you've been posting content mostly directed towards men, then it's time to rethink your strategy. Now, this does not mean throw your entire strategy in the trash and start posting whatever appeals to women. Not exactly. It's a balance act. If you continue to ignore such a large demographic, chances are your social media efforts are going to fail. 

2) 29% of social media users seek purchase advice

This boils down to ZMOT. To the T. People have such an inventory of feedback and reviews today, it's almost comical. Before calling a dealership, people are GOING ONLINE to research a vehicle. This doesn't only include hitting up Google reviews or sites like Edmunds and MotorTrend. No, this entails logging into their social media sites (Facebook and Twitter) and asking their friends and followers for advice/help. 

"Hey guys, currently looking to replace my beat up car, can anybody recommend a fuel efficient sedan?"

Comments: "Can't go wrong with a Toyota Yaris" "Toyota? Buy American!" And, so forth. 

29%. You have to take into account this study was only for one month. People are going on social media and asking for purchase advice much, much more. So, this is where you come in. You need to be IN the conversation. You need to engage. Sounds simple enough, but the bottom line is: You need to be social. 

3) 50% Twitter users discuss TV Shows

This is where social plays a huge part as well. If you see a few tweets in your timeline discussing last night's episode of Glee or CSI, you're not going to tweet back "I missed it last night, but you know what you're missing? A brand new Ford Focus!!" No, that's just ridiculous. You join the conversation, you engage with them. They'll remember you trust me. 

Other Statistics that Interested Me:

-9 out of 10 parents seek friends, family

-7 out of 10 parents seek "LOLs"

-People are spending 53.5 billion minutes per month on Facebook

Overall, when it comes to developing and implementing a social media strategy, you must do the research. There's no getting around it. (Side note: I write fiction in my spare time. I'm not going to try to write about a secret spy without doing any research on espionage, now am I?) Anyway, once you know your demographic, you can start implementing your strategy and targeting your specific demographic. In the end, we must not forget to always keep one word in mind: SOCIAL! 

Afraid of Losing Your Phone? You May Have Nomophobia Like Half the Population (RePost From Mashable - Written By Samantha Murphy)

If you know the panicked and disconnected feeling of leaving your mobile phone at home, you might be one of the many suffering from nomophobia.

A recent survey by U.K.-based mobile security service provider SecurEnvoy conducted among 1,000 people found that two thirds (66%) of respondents fear losing or being without their mobile phone — a fear called nomophobia. The phobia also includes the anxiety someone feels when not in the range of a cell tower to receive optimal reception.

Not surprisingly, nomophonia is on the rise — up 13% from just four years ago — as more consumers become strapped to their smartphones.

However, women (70%) worry more about losing their phones than men (61%). According to Andy Kemshall, chief technology officer and co-founder of SecurEnvoy, men were more likely to have nomophobia in 2008 but feel less overwhelmed now. Why the change of heart? Men are 11% more likely than women to carry around two mobile devices.

Younger demographics are also more likely to be nomophobic, as 77% said they fear being without their phone. Meanwhile, those ages 25 to 34 are the second most nomophobic group, followed by mobile users over 55.

SecurEnvoy also cited a recent study published by the Helsinki Institute for Information Technology found that people check their phones about 34 times a day on average. If you do misplace your phone, it won’t take very long to realize it.

Do you have nomophobia? What tech item can’t you live without? Let us know in the comments.

Image courtesy of iStockphoto, mbbirdy

The Small Business Social Media Cheat Sheet

Nissan enthusiasts are invited to vote on modifications and follow the construction online through Facebook.com/nissanperformance. The finished vehicle will be revealed May 17 at the annual ZDayZ gathering in North Carolina.

“Think of Project 370Z as a factory project car built in a non-factory way,” explained Erich Marx, director, Social Media & Interactive Marketing, Nissan North America. “Nissan Z® owners are among the most active of all on social media. We can’t wait to see how the finished vehicle turns out.”

At the show’s social media day, in the second year it has been held, Nissan also hosted a Google+ Hangout, and made sure the bloggers were introduced to culinary delights provided by a Southern Mac & Cheese Nissan NV food truck. Guests were also treated to Nissan’s new “virtual new car experience” using Microsoft Kinect technology.

The last 3 years, infographics have grown as one of the most effective marketing tools available. They're easily sharable on social media, can offer tremendous SEO benefits, and can help your dealership offer content that people enjoy seeing.

Still, it's also the most underutilized tool by the automotive industry. A lot of it is our fault; vendors in the automotive space have seen infographics as too challenging and too expensive to bring to market. We've had a handful of forward-thinking dealers take advantage of it, but there hasn't been nearly the adoption that has occurred in other industries.

Even at the OEM level, Ford is the only company that has dipped their toes into infographics and found success.

First, let's look at what they do for dealerships:

• - They give content to visitors of both their websites and social media profiles an item will be shared. People share good content on Facebook and Twitter. They don't share new car specials pages. Some have asked what the benefit is. We've seen that when people share content on Facebook, a good percentage of it is localized. Friends, relatives, and coworkers that see a nice piece of content from a friend will visit the link and land on your site. If you're running remarketing campaigns or simply going for social media exposure, landing them on your site is an opportunity to generate a lead. Don't forget, every Facebook user has 8-9 Facebook friends who are in the market to buy a vehicle in the next 30 days.
•  - Powerful inbound links are the most important aspect of search engine optimization. Having graphics that can be embedded on other sites is an opportunity to use this "link bait" to generate free links to your site.
• - Infographics that portray useful information such as proper SYNCing on a Ford or localized information such as a crime-rate map of the area positions the dealership website as a resource on top of being a place to look at cars. Whenever you can become a resource for people, they are more likely to want to do business with you.

Once you know what they do for you, let's take a look at the most successful infographic that we built in 2011. This particular one was generated for a non-automotive client but it will be easy to see why it was so successful. Here are the stats:

• - Posted on over 400 websites that linked back to the source, including high-value websites that included the New York Times, Mashable, TheNextWeb, and TheAtlantic.
• - Shared on Facebook over 17,000 times with Mashable having the highest share-rate of nearly 10,000.
• - Tweeted over 25,000 times with Mashable again leading the way with over 6,000 retweets.
• - Estimated 2.3 million views of the infographic.
• - Made the front page of Digg, Reddit, and went viral for 3 different sites on StumbleUpon.

Now, here's the infographic. If you have any questions about why it worked so well or how it translates in the automotive industry, please feel free to email me or ask in the comments.

Source: Most Googled Cars Of 2011

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Twitter Announces NEW Re-Design, New Features and Promises An Easier & Better Tool