Manheim Specialty has launched a quarterly video blog as part of its social media initiative, designed to engage dealers and demonstrate the many informational and business uses of social media. The first installment features General Manager Karen Braddy discussing 2011 pricing trends for motorcycles hosted through the company’s YouTube channel.  
 
The broader social media initiative includes event-related contests such as the “Guess the Bid” promotion centered on the upcoming Dealer Expo, Feb. 17-19 in Indianapolis. Dealers can enter the promotion at Manheim Specialty’s Dealer Expo (booth #4852) and also through the company’s Facebook page.
 
“We think the convenience of social media is one of the things that makes it so appealing to such a wide audience,” said Braddy. “We know our customers have different social media preferences, and we are accommodating them through our Facebook page, Twitter feed, YouTube channel and blog. We want to engage dealers through their preferred social media platforms and in turn show them how they can use social media to reach their customers.”
 
The company’s social media initiative incorporates a variety of elements and will be used to discuss used vehicle market trends and information, upcoming sales at Manheim Specialty auction locations, industry news and other resources. The company says it will also announce contests and survey dealer opinions on the blog.
 
“We believe there are so many potential uses for social media, and we are keeping track of what dealers like,” added Braddy.  “We will offer many different types of content, but will focus on the types that dealers find most helpful.”
 
For more information about Manheim Specialty, visit www.manheimspecialtyauctions.com.