The Question: “Mike, how can I use text message marketing?”
The Answer: Let me give you an example and some ideas…
I have a client who runs TV commercials. His commercials are pulling very well and he actually gets them dirt cheap. He’s been doing them for years. We’re always testing different calls to action and ways to respond in his commercials. The latest test, which will roll out shortly, will be adding a call to action to have the viewer “Text In” to get a killer special.
What do we know? We know that most people watch TV with their phones next to them. We know his target market has a high concentration of smart phone users. This fact plays in perfectly to what we do next.
After the prospect texts in they are added to a text marketing list. Then, we have permission to follow up at any time. All though I recommend not more than once per week to a text list – maybe less!
Back to the Smart Phone thing… What we program into the “text reply” is a link to a “Mobile Site.” It can be a landing page or a full mobile site. A mobile site is optimized for the small screen. It navigates easy and has a different set of “principles” at work. We are all going to need a mobile site eventually – the sooner the better.
On the mobile site we make another offer to the prospect. To get this next offer the prospect needs to enter their name and email address. Now you have their mobile number, their email address and their name. A great start to leading them down the path of doing business with you!
Other examples…
A real estate agent can have a “text in” offer in their ads or on their MLS sheets. The reply can link to a “Mobile Catalog” of listings with “Mobile Virtual Tours.” The prospective buyer appreciates how this agent is on the cutting edge. Any potential seller would see the value as well.
Restaurants are a slam dunk! What’s the main challenges they face? Frequency and competition. People eat out but there are so many choices it’s hard for a restaurant to turn a high percentage of their customers in to “regulars.” But with weekly or bi-weekly text and email deals a restaurant can keep top of mind awareness. They can send links to their “Mobile Menu” with “Click to Call” function.
Mobile gives you a ton of great opportunities to stand out in the crowd and reach your customers and prospects. It’s just a matter of taking action! Be sure you use mobile websites and and mobile landing pages in your marketing.