Know-How Exchange : Strategy

I assume you're a retail auto sales rather than wholesale auto sales.

It seems to me your question raises several issues.

I am not personally aware of companies providing such leaves. However, please be careful if you desire to place these calls yourself. Please be sure you are in compliance with the do not call laws. The penalties for making calls to people who are on the federal do not call lists are substantial.

First off, I think it's great that you're being proactive about your sales. I don't think you'll be able to make much money in the current economy if you rely solely on foot traffic. Of course, a lot of that depends on what makes you sell and where you're located.

I have to say, though, that I'm not fond of telemarketing in this case. Are you suggesting that you just call people and ask them if they're in the market for a new car -- or when they plan to be?

I do recall reading a book about a guy who did exactly that, and he kept a meticulous database and used it religiously. He'd find out what kind of cars they own and when they might be in the market. If they said, "In a year," he was on the phone to them in 10 months.

And he made a fortune.

But WOW does that seem like a hard way to make a living. You would really have to be willing to eat rejection for breakfast, and you'd have to be willing to accept that you're planting seeds that may not yield fruit for a year or more.

I'm assuming you know that the auto industry is 100% in the ditch right now...

In answer to your question, the only thing I'm aware of for your industry as far as lead-generation is when people go shopping for cars on the Web and certain dealers pay to ensure that they are given those inquiries.