Buzz
Text messaging has the highest interaction rate compared to any other marketing channel to date. 90% of text messages are read within 3 minutes of receiving them. Over half of consumers say they prefer to contact customer support via SMS more than any other channel. And most say they prefer to receive order status notifications, booking confirmations, or appointment reminders via text message. You may wonder what sms marketing is and how to write sms marketing content? Check out the article below by Mytour.
How to Do SMS Marketing
I. What is SMS Marketing?.
II. How to Create Effective SMS Marketing Campaigns.
1. Sending messages to registered phone numbers.
2. Sending an appropriate number of SMS messages.
3. Ensuring clear SMS content.
4. Choosing the right timing.
5. Keeping SMS content cheerful.
6. Targeting the right audience segments.
7. Creating a sense of urgency.
8. Offering exclusive deals via SMS.
9. Tracking message open and click-through rates.
10. Integrating SMS marketing with other campaigns.
III. Building SMS Marketing Campaigns.
I. What is SMS Marketing?
SMS stands for Short Message Service, which refers to the transmission of short text messages between mobile devices or from a computer to a mobile device. SMS marketing involves sending marketing messages to customers via text messages.
II. How to Create Effective SMS Marketing Campaigns
Not all SMS campaigns are created equal, nor are they equally effective. Some companies fully integrate SMS marketing into their business strategies, while others see it as a side project.
If you want to make your SMS marketing effective, here are some methods and suggestions to maximize your success.
1. Send messages to registered phone numbers
You should only send SMS to users when you have their permission, meaning you have informed them when obtaining their phone numbers during previous purchases, or when they sign up for consultation, participate in lucky draw programs, promotions, etc., that you will send notifications of new programs. Otherwise, your messages will be considered spam, leading to negative brand impact.
You can encourage phone number registration across any of your current marketing channels like email, website, in-store, social media (Facebook, Instagram).
2. Send an appropriate number of SMS messages
How many SMS to potential customers are too many? Upland software deeply analyzes the ideal SMS frequency advising you to start with 4-5 messages per month and gradually increase to 10 per month - as long as they all provide real value.
Your messages must include a call-to-action and use URL shorteners like goo.gl or bit.ly.
3. Ensure Clear SMS Content
You have 160 characters to convey the content you want to market, even shorter if possible. Ensure that message is clear and concise, written in Vietnamese, with accents. Avoid abbreviations or excessive use of emoticons.
Another note is not to use SMS marketing with open-ended messages. An example of this type of message is inviting customers to join a discount program without stating the start and end time. They won't know if it will happen in a day or a month. By providing a specific timeframe, you increase the likelihood of customer action because they have enough information and feel more urgent.
4. Right Timing Selection
When it comes to deciding the timing to send out SMS marketing, think about your audience: When are they most likely to be using their phones?
According to marketing experts, Monday is the day with the lowest message read and response rate. Unless your message is specifically related to that day, try to avoid it. Additionally, you should avoid sending SMS during most people's commuting times, usually 6:30 - 8:30 in the morning and 4 - 7 in the evening. At those times, people are driving so they won't read or respond to messages.
Overall, from 10 in the morning to 8 in the evening is the most effective time for SMS marketers. Certainly, no one wants a discount code or appointment reminder at 4 in the morning.
5. Keep SMS Content Cheerful
SMS is a personal and informal channel, so you can think about games, promotions, surveys, interactive content, and one-on-one conversations. Use SMS marketing as an opportunity to provide fun, memorable experiences for customers.
In fact, many SMS marketers use trendy language in messages, which can be acceptable as long as it's not overly complex or inappropriate.
A famous example is Starbucks' SMS marketing campaign in the US. They frequently send SMS with puzzle games, fun memes, and personalized rewards.
6. Segmenting SMS Recipients
How you talk to a new customer will differ from a loyal one. SMS is no different. Segment your audience to ensure that each user receives relevant and valuable content.
New customers may enjoy free shipping or discount codes, while loyal customers may be entitled to pre-order new products or invitations to reward programs.
You can use data profiles to send birthday SMS promotions, discounts for new customers, or location-based campaigns to provide each user with a personalized experience, thereby increasing the conversion rate of goods/services.
7. Create a sense of urgency, importance
One of the greatest benefits of SMS is its directness, so turn that into an advantage. Your messages should include phrases like 'valid from [...] to [...]', 'program only applicable at [...], 'program may end early', etc. A sense of urgency will prompt customers to act faster.
8. Provide exclusive offers via SMS
Sending exclusive offers or VIP content via text message (not available on any other channel) is one of the most effective ways to connect with customers. Your SMS can include content like 'for customers receiving this message only'.
9. Track message open and click rates
Similar to any other channel, you should track how users engage with your SMS marketing campaigns. How many people open your messages? How many click on links or send responses? How many opt out? From there, you can continue to refine your SMS marketing strategy.
10. Integrate SMS marketing with other campaigns
Today, mobile users want a seamless customer experience. Integrated strategy is essential for your brand to build sustainable, long-term relationships with them.
Your SMS campaigns need to be complemented, connected to the entire marketing strategy, such as email and social media, thereby providing a seamless experience.
III. Developing SMS marketing campaigns
To determine whether SMS marketing aligns with your overall marketing strategy, ask yourself the following questions:
+ Is your campaign time-sensitive? Since SMS is the best channel for urgent cases you want recipients to see immediately.
+ Is SMS the best format? Can you convey your message within 160 characters or less?
+ Does the SMS contain desired content for the customers?
