Korean rapper/insane man PSY is having a pretty good month. His smash hit, “Gangnam Style,” has become the viral version of the Macarena, coupling a catchy beat with the most ridiculous dance moves that a fully grown adult could conceivably perform. Mimicking and mocking the music video is irresistible – “Gangnam Style” has received over 600 million views at the time of this writing. PSY has performed his bizarre equestrian jig on The Today Show, Ellen, and Saturday Night Live. And he owes all of his success in America to the popularity of his viral video.

There are tons of brands, products, and would-be-celebrities who have found fortune and fame by producing a video that spreads around the Internet like wildfire. These videos are called “viral” because, like a virus, they spread infectiously, quickly contaminating the Internet with a fever of sharing and reblogging. The effectiveness of viral videos can not be understated – which is why both presidential campaigns just finished pouring millions of dollars into creating their own  Youtube videos. So the question is – how can car dealers get in on the viral craze?

Howard Polirer, director-industry relations for AutoTrader.com, estimated that 25% of all U.S. dealers now use online video in their marketing efforts. This means that dealerships are doing a better job of targeting their viewer audience. But humor is always the key to making a truly viral video. Check out Clay Corp’s successful “Let’s Get Naked!” video, in which the dealer promises to show his customer’s everything – and then strips down to his tighty-whiteys to prove it.

Viral marketing can catapult your dealership brand into the national spotlight, and sell you more cars. Get creative with your web content. We can help with that – follow ActivEngage’s blog for more ideas, marketing tips, and auto industry news!