As a parts manager, you know driving sales for your business is essential to your bottom line, whether through eCommerce or in-store transactions. In today’s saturated digital marketplace, this often means wearing multiple hats, including that of a social media manager.
Managing your brand’s marketing efforts, whether through in-house, outsourced, or DIY social media services, can be challenging on top of your regular duties.
Let’s dive into this simplified guide and learn how to get started on the right foot with social media.
>>> Already started on social media? Click here to learn how to create engaging social media posts.
Why It Matters
In today’s digital age, social media is a business requirement, whether you are selling online or looking to influence in-person parts sales. However, social media serves a purpose beyond just driving sales. Consumers also use social media to:
- Research the best auto part brands before investing in their vehicles.
- Review your online reputation and compare it to your competitors.
- Engage with your brand for potential discounts and entertainment.
- Educate themselves on auto parts terminology to make an informed purchase decision.
By meeting consumers where they are on social media, you can:
- Stand out in a competitive market.
- Build your brand awareness.
- Promote audience engagement.
- Increase sales opportunities.
It may seem overwhelming to address your audience’s wants and needs via social media—especially if you have limited experience (on top of managing your business and daily activities).
Here’s a detailed guide to make your initial social media setup easier.
Choosing Platforms
With many social media platforms available, you don’t need to post on all of them. You only need to pick the ones your target audience is on and create valuable content for them.
But how do you know which ones to choose?
Ask yourself the following questions when choosing social media platforms:
- How much time can my team or I commit to weekly content creation? This includes scheduling, posting, monitoring, engaging, and re-sharing.
- Which platforms are my competitors on that show the most success? (Ex: Most likes, comments, shares, followers, etc.)
- Which platforms are we currently using that are showing the least success? (Ex: Least likes, comments, shares, followers, etc.)
Ultimately, deciding where to post on social media should be data-driven. However, the following social media platforms are a great place to start.
Facebook (Meta)
Organic Reach: Paid traffic can be generated by boosting posts as micro ads and creating traditional ads like image galleries and video ads.
Paid Advertising: Paid traffic can be generated by boosting posts as micro ads and creating traditional ads like image galleries and video ads.
Reviews: Facebook allows past customers to leave reviews, helping build trust.
Respond to negative reviews with tailored responses to turn a negative experience into a positive one.
Some of its eCommerce-friendly features include:
Instagram Shopping: An in-app storefront for auto parts, including branded collections and product details.
Link Sticker (Swipe Up): Lets users swipe up on Instagram Stories to purchase parts via a direct link.
Link in Bio: Add your website link in your profile’s bio for easy access.
You can also boost and create conventional Instagram ads through Meta Ads Manager.
TikTok
TikTok’s short-form videos are an engaging way to showcase auto parts. Use humor to educate consumers on common shopping and installation mistakes. Follow TikTok trends with trending music and behind-the-scenes videos.
TikTok also offers advertising features to generate leads, attract new customers, and boost conversions. Always include a call-to-action (CTA) in your videos, like a link to your store or a discount code.
Setting Up Your Accounts (Basics)
While each social media platform has different steps for creating an account, they all share similar processes during initial setup.
Facebook (Meta)
If you already have a personal Facebook profile, follow these steps to create a Facebook Business Page:
- Log into your personal Facebook account, click Pages on the left-hand side, and then click Create New Page.
- Enter your company name as the Page name.
- Enter your Facebook Page Category that best describes your business. We suggest using “Company Organization or Institution” as “Automobiles and Parts” will appear in the drop-down menu.
- Create your Facebook Business Page.
- Customize it with your business bio, profile picture, and cover photo.
Then, follow these steps:
-
- Click the icon in the upper right corner of your profile.
- Go to Account Type and Tools.
- Switch to a Professional Account.
- Tap Continue and select a Category—we recommend Automotive Parts Store.
- Click Business and hit Next to enter contact details (or opt out from Instagram using your contact information).
We suggest adding your Instagram Business account to Meta’s Account Center to centralize your Facebook and Instagram logins.
TikTok
You must also have a personal TikTok profile to create a TikTok Business Account.
Once a TikTok profile is created, you must:
- Click Profile and tap the icon to open your Settings and Privacy page.
- Hit Account and Switch to Business Account.
- Select a category. We suggest AdviceTok to advise users on taking care of their vehicles with the best parts from your store.
- Done!
Don’t Delay – Start Using Social to Marketing Your Parts Department!
Leveraging social media for your auto parts business is crucial in today’s digital landscape. Establishing a presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, where you can engage with customers and build brand awareness, ultimately drives more sales both online and in-store.
Remember, social media is an ongoing effort. Regularly review your social media strategy, track key metrics, and adapt your content based on what resonates with your audience. With a thoughtful and strategic approach, you’ll be well on your way to harnessing the power of social media to grow your auto parts business. So, go ahead and get started—your customers are waiting to engage with you!
Maximize Social Media Efforts by Selling Parts Online!
Maximize your social media efforts by selling parts online! Take action today to revolutionize your parts department and build a thriving online parts business with RevolutionParts. Reach a nationwide customer base, grow your parts sales, and stay ahead of the competition.
