Consumers spend less time inside dealerships than ever, so your window to communicate value has drastically narrowed. Customers today begin their search for service online, forcing your dealership to engage in an online battle royale against countless competitors and making your digital presence more crucial than ever. So, how do you successfully deliver your message and retain valuable customers despite all the digital distractions?
Believe it or not, the solution lies in a powerful, proven pre-digital marketing channel: direct mail.
Forget the myth that direct mail is a relic of the past — start leveraging the treasure trove of data in your DMS to send targeted campaigns directly to your customers’ mailboxes. Automotive is currently the No. 1 industry using direct mail, proving the power this marketing communication provides your business.
So, why does direct mail still outperform? Let’s break down three core direct mail benefits and how they could revolutionize your marketing strategy.
Consumer Preference and Brand Recognition
Direct mail provides customers with flexibility in how and when they engage with your brand by offering a tangible, personalized connection. This kind of flexibility and personalization strengthens brand recognition and increases consumer spending.
Studies show that those who receive direct mail spend 28% more than those who don’t. Imagine what that extra business could do for your dealership. Customized direct mail pieces offer a lasting impression that helps your brand stand out in your customers’ homes and keep your dealership top-of-mind.
The Human Connection
It’s nice to receive a mail piece that feels like it was written just for you. The experience of seeing your name prominently displayed where you may not have been expecting can elicit excitement and curiosity. This curiosity translates into action, and by simply adding a person’s name and using full color, you can increase response rates by an impressive 135%. Personalization demonstrates a genuine connection, making customers feel valued and understood, which fosters loyalty and encourages direct mail recipients to return to your dealership for their future vehicle needs.
Beyond the Mailbox
Have you considered utilizing both direct mail and email communications? These communications offer complementary benefits: Email delivers messages instantly, while direct mail provides a tangible reminder. This two-touch approach helps you reach customers at the right time with the right message that they can’t miss.
By creating consistent, personalized messaging across both platforms, you reinforce your brand in multiple spaces, increasing the likelihood of engagement. This integration also enhances customer retention, as repeated exposure builds trust and loyalty, encouraging customers to return to your dealership for service or future purchases. Maximize your reach, influence and overall marketing success by utilizing both channels in a hybrid approach.
Personalized direct mail campaigns offer you the opportunity to capture your audience’s attention in a unique and impactful way. By leveraging the power of personalization and combining it with targeted email campaigns, you can create a lasting impression, cultivate loyalty and drive tangible results for your dealership. Don’t let the myth of direct mail’s obsolescence fool you — it’s time to rediscover the treasure trove of opportunities that personalized direct mail campaigns can offer.
For additional information, contact Reynolds Document Services at rds@reyrey.com or (800) 344-0996.
