DETROIT -

Ally Financial recently launched a pilot program to help dealers connect with more prospects and customers through the use of social media.

Officials highlighted the program, called "Connect4Content," is geared to remove the most common obstacle for dealers looking to bolster their social media properties — the need for a constant stream of new and engaging content. 

Through the use of SOCIALDEALER, a reputation and social media management platform, dealers now have access to engaging automotive content from Ally that can be posted to their Facebook pages to help attract customers and build buyers' confidence.

The content is designed to assist dealers in reaching the tech-savvy, millennial generation — those 16 to 32 years old — currently the largest generation in U.S. history.

"Dealers want to be involved in social media, but a common roadblock is that they don't have the expertise or resources to develop content," said Andrea Riley, chief marketing officer for Ally Dealer Financial Services. 

"Ally recognizes that dealers need high quality content for their social media channels, and this program will help dealers build rapport with consumers with a goal of driving more business to their dealerships," Riley continued.

After signing up for the Ally "Connect4Content" program, dealers receive a weekly email with new content. Dealers can choose which content they want to use and automatically post it to their Facebook pages through an approval function within the email.

Ally insisted it is the first auto finance provider to work with SOCIALDEALER to provide this type of service to its customers. 

Ally is currently running a trial of the program with a select group of dealers. Ally anticipates offering the program to a larger dealer audience later this year.