NFDA will help dealers boost web, social and press communications

The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) has launched NFDA Engage, a new programme designed to help dealers optimise their communications with customers, colleagues and the media.

To accompany the launch, NFDA has published a guide providing its members with practical tips and encouraging them to consider marketing and communications areas that may not be part of their current approach.

The guide highlights three elements of dealers’ communications: website, social media, and traditional media through press releases.

Sue Robinson, NFDA chief executive said: “Marketing and communications represent a crucial part of dealers’ business models particularly at a time when it is increasingly important how organisations present their brand to the consumer.

“The Engage guide does not intend to be an exhaustive source of information, but it provides dealers with practical tips to help them improve their communications to customers, colleagues and media.

“Over the coming weeks, we will assess our members’ demand and needs to develop Engage accordingly. We look forward to continuing to work closely with dealers through these challenging times”.

In the document, NFDA outlines the key sections dealers generally have on their websites, gives ideas and guidance on what, how and when to post on the main social media platforms, and shares tips on how to write effective press releases.

In addition to the recommendations given through the guide, NFDA will provide its members with tangible support, initially focusing on the areas discussed in the document. 

A partnership with digital agency Blue Mantis will provide NFDA members with a tailored performance report of their website. The report gives an overall score to the website with further details for five sections including website speed, links, technical aspects, content and Google My Business.

The NFDA will also assist dealers with social media engagement and writing press releases, on request.

The Engage services are free of charge to dealer members.