AutoTrader.com Launches Interactive, Online Training for Auto Dealers

Free Advertising Essentials modules can be downloaded to mp3 players

ATLANTA - Feb. 18, 2006: AutoTrader.com announces the launch of Advertising Essentials, a free interactive educational site for automotive dealers available online at http://advertisingessentials.autotrader.com .

Supposedly, Advertising Essentials teaches dealers practical skills and tactics to effectively merchandise their cars on the Internet and to maximize the return on their Internet advertising investment. The modules, they say, cover writing good copy, taking good photos, the importance of pricing, and reviewing listings to improve results.

What I'm wondering is when did AutoTrader become an expert at teaching people how to write good copy and take good pictures. I've read and looked at their convenience-store publications. I would have said that a prerequisite to working for AT was a third-grade education and an auto-of-focus Brownie box camera. But hey, I could be wrong, someone there may have taken some classes at a local community college.

In any event, if you're a car dealer and you can't find a $5 an hour entry-level html person, take a look at the AT website, you might pick-up a tip or two. Maybe I'll take a look, I might learn something, too.

Marc Rauch - TACH Auto Central