SMS marketing is a great way to reach out to more customers. It can be used to improve engagement and capture more buyers. Marketing has turned to the use of short message service, also known as SMS, which is a great way to stay in touch with customers. It’s personal and accessible to those who are not internet-connected.
According to studies, 75% of consumers prefer to receive messages from SMS over emails. This marketing channel is becoming more prevalent as more businesses implement it in their efforts to generate leads and engage with their customers. But, like any tool, it has to be executed properly to achieve its goals.
What is SMS Text Marketing?
Through SMS marketing, a brand can reach out to its customers directly by sending them a text broadcast. These messages typically include various promotions and updates. Since they are short and straight-to-action, campaigns with this medium can be effective.
A promotional text message informs customers about special offers and discounts. The goal of these campaigns is to generate brand awareness and encourage them to buy from the merchant’s store. A transactional message informs customers about an update regarding their accounts, such as shipment notifications or confirmations. This type of message can help build loyalty and increase the likelihood of repeat business.
Ways to Use Text Marketing to Increase Customer Engagement
Although SMS marketing has many characteristics that are distinct from online marketing, general rules still apply when it comes to launching effective campaigns.
1. Plan the Timing of Messages
One factor that a company must consider when it comes to launching a successful campaign is the timeliness of its text messages. For instance, if a customer receives a message regarding their package delivery, they need to be notified immediately so that they can make arrangements to be there when it’s delivered.
Another important factor that a company must consider is the time of day that it should send the message. Since customers will receive it even if they’re not online, it should be sent at a time that’s convenient for them.
2. Include a Call to Action
A call to action is an integral part of any marketing strategy. It can help boost the effectiveness of a text campaign by allowing customers to take action without having to go to your website. One of the most effective ways to generate click-throughs is by using branded links, which are 39% more likely to be noticed than unbranded ones. In today’s environment, where text scams are rampant, using branded links can help build trust among customers.
3. Short, Simple, Alluring Messages
When it comes to marketing, the messages that your company sends must be simple and clear. This can help attract the attention of potential customers. Text messages may be cut off when the receiver is using an older phone. It’s possible that they won’t see the entire message.
To avoid this issue, try sending shorter text messages that are straight to the point. For example, you can greet customers and inform them about an update or a promo. After that, follow up with a call to action. To add personality and design to the message, you can use emojis.
4. Gain Feedback
Besides promos and updates, SMS marketing can also be used by businesses to listen to their customers. Since people are more likely to respond to text messages, it’s a good idea to include a link in the message so that they can provide feedback.
Being able to listen to your customers is important for a company as it can help improve their loyalty and satisfaction. Having a dedicated team of experts who are constantly working on improving the services that your company provides can help boost the customer experience.
5. Create Personalized Messages
Personalization is an important factor that businesses need to consider when it comes to enhancing their customer experience. This process involves using information collected from their customers in various forms, such as purchases and official documents. You can create customized messages that will persuade your potential customers to take action by segmenting your audience.
Final Thoughts
An effective SMS marketing campaign should be focused on generating leads and increasing customer engagement. This type of marketing is more effective than online channels as it is more practical and can reach out to more people.