Why Online SMS Is Good For Your Business

Why Online SMS Is Good For Your Business

One often overlooked but highly powerful communication channel is online SMS (short message service).

Online SMS allows businesses to reach customers wherever they are via text message.

In this article, we’ll explore why online SMS is a game-changer for businesses of all sizes. You’ll learn:

• How SMS can help you reach your customers instantly and directly
• Why SMS is one of the most cost-effective marketing channels available
• How you can use SMS to provide an exceptional customer experience
• Proven strategies for building an engaged SMS subscriber list

By the end, you’ll understand why savvy businesses are making SMS a core part of their marketing and communication strategies.

 

Benefits of Using Online SMS for Businesses

1. High Open and Engagement Rates

One of the primary reasons businesses love using online SMS is the incredible open and engagement rates. Studies show that SMS messages have an average open rate 2-4x that of email – this is a BIG deal.

Additionally, SMS boasts an impressive average click-through rate of up to 29%, which is significantly higher than the average click-through rate for other digital marketing channels. 

When you combine incredibly high open and click-through rates, you have the ability to change the direction of your business.

2. Immediate and Direct Communication

Research shows that 90% of SMS messages are read within 3 minutes of being received. This level of immediacy is unmatched by other channels, giving you the ability to reach your customers when it matters most.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to other marketing tactics, SMS can be a highly cost-effective way to reach your audience. The average cost per SMS message is anywhere from 5-8 cents, making it an affordable option for businesses of all sizes. 

And because SMS boasts such high engagement rates, you’re able to achieve a greater return on your marketing investment.

4. Personalization and Targeting

Like email, you can use keyword placeholders that allow the online SMS platform to insert personalisation like the name of the recipient, or reference to a previous product, etc.

5. Improved Customer Experience

Beyond just marketing and sales, SMS can also be used to enhance the overall customer experience. Businesses are leveraging SMS for a variety of customer-centric applications, such as:

• Sending order updates and delivery notifications
• Providing appointment reminders and confirmations
• Offering customer support and answering queries
• Gathering feedback and reviews

By using SMS to streamline these types of interactions, businesses can create a more seamless and satisfying experience for their customers. This can lead to increased customer loyalty, higher retention rates, and more positive word-of-mouth.

 

Implementing Effective Online SMS Campaigns

1. Building a Subscriber List

The foundation of a successful online SMS strategy is building an engaged subscriber list. This means getting your customers to opt-in to receive your SMS messages. There are a few effective ways to do this:

• Promote SMS sign-ups on your website, social media, and in-store. Offer an incentive like a discount or exclusive offer to encourage sign-ups.
• Include SMS opt-in forms on your checkout pages or in your email newsletters.
• Run SMS-specific promotions and contests to grow your subscriber base.

2. Crafting Compelling SMS Messages

Once you’ve built your subscriber list, it’s time to start crafting your SMS messages. The key is to keep them short, engaging, and actionable. Here are some tips:

• Use personalisation by including the recipient’s name or other relevant details.
• Include a clear call-to-action, such as a link to your website or a special offer.
• Keep your messages concise – aim for 160 characters or up to 450 but this does cost more.
• Use emojis and other visual elements to make your messages more eye-catching.

Remember, your SMS messages should provide value to your customers, whether that’s an exclusive discount, a time-sensitive update, or helpful information.

3. Timing and Frequency

Timing is crucial when it comes to SMS marketing. You want to send your messages when your customers are most likely to engage with them. Generally, the best times are during normal business hours, avoiding early mornings, late nights, and weekends.

It’s also important to find the right frequency for your SMS campaigns. Sending too many messages can come across as spammy, while not sending enough can cause your subscribers to forget about you. Aim for a cadence of 1-4 messages per month, adjusting as needed based on customer feedback and engagement rates.

4. Integrating SMS with Other Channels

For maximum impact, consider integrating your SMS campaigns with your other marketing channels, such as email, social media, and your website. This creates a cohesive, multi-channel experience that reinforces your messaging and keeps your brand top-of-mind.

For example, you could use SMS to send time-sensitive offers and updates, while using email for longer-form content and social media for brand awareness. By aligning your channels, you’ll be able to reach your customers more effectively and drive better results.