Although the iPhone app was intended to let users stay connected with their Facebook friends while on the go, auto dealers can also take advantage of this technology to make their automotive mobile marketing campaigns more interactive and more in-tune with the social media. With the release of Facebook for iPhone’s newest version (version 3.4), one added feature is particularly useful for business owners: the ability to check-in at actual events.

Checking-In to Events

Along with bug fixes and other new features, Facebook for iPhone now allows users to check-in to events, rather than just locations as was previously the case. To check-in, users must first accept the invitation by saying “Yes” to the RSVP then they must also be present at the same time and venue that is indicated in the event invitation. Once they are checked-in, users can see the other guests who are also at the event. For example, now a user can check in at XYZ Dealership’s “Car Show For Charity” event; and by doing so spread the word to all their friends that not only are they at XYZ Dealership, but also that there is an event going on, and the user is there.

Organize Automotive Marketing Events

Event check-in can bring auto advertising to a whole new level by utilizing connectability and social interaction to connect to your potential customers and promote your dealership. You can easily organize an event- sales, car-related, or philanthropy- send out invitations on Facebook and dcreate a buzz leading up to it as people accept invitations as well as the day of the event as those same people check in to the event.

Also, with  Facebook for iPhone, you can plan activities throughout the event and post them to engage your guests, encourage audience participation and create a call to action to a checked in users network. You can also keep tabs on how the event is being perceived by seeing what people are saying on Facebook, running opinion polls or surveys and obtaining real time responses, and interacting directly with attendees.