Lead generation is at the heart of online marketing simply because it helps your business attract more customers, thus increasing revenue. More and more people own mobile phones and carry them with them everywhere. In fact, 64% of adults have smartphones and texting has become one of the most popular methods of communication. This means that effective SMS marketing campaigns have strong potential for boosting your lead generation.
What is SMS Marketing?
SMS marketing is just a way of reaching clients through text messaging. Using a web-based program, you can send mass (or targeted) texts to leads that have opted into your service. Clients opt-in by texting a 5-digit shortcode. Once the code is texted, that user’s phone number is stored by the SMS marketing software. A confirmation reply is usually sent as receipt for opting in, also giving them clear instructions on how to opt-out at any time.
The key to success with SMS marketing is sending short, concise messages with a clear call to action! Including the customers first name in the text tends to increase responses. The CTA could be a website link or getting them to text back a specific keyword to participate in your offer.
The only way to apply this strategy is for customers to opt themselves in.
Key Benefits to Using SMS Marketing
Here are just some of the key benefits you’ll gain as a result of text message marketing:
- 76% report that they are more likely to read a message sooner if it’s an SMS/text message than if it’s an email (Source: Forbes)
- Improves your inbound marketing and sales process
- Extremely cost effective
- Short messages so it saves you time with creating promo content
- Flexible platform where you can send a message to your entire list or a more targeted group
- Shows your clientele that you stay in the know with fresh technology techniques
Don’t make the mistake of not adding SMS marketing to your inbound marketing plan. Whether you’re in real estate, financial, medical, or B2B company, there are several lead generation tips you can implement that will grow your list and revenue. Here are 5 unique ways to use this strategy to your advantage:
5 Ways to Use SMS Marketing to Boost Leads
#1 Promote the SMS opt-in on all your social media
Use your social media platforms to promote and push for the opt-in. Mention the value and special offers they’ll get in return. The more your followers regularly see the “opt-in message”, the more responses you’ll receive.
#2 Contest
One way to grab the attention of your target audience is to create a contest or sweepstakes. People love to get things for free and will be more willing to participate if you offer a small bonus for opting in as a result. There are cool ways to host a successful contest regardless of your company! Use your social media sites to promote and the SMS technique to collect the leads for entry.
#3 Register for an event
A great way to drive registrations for a special event or webinar is to have people text in to register. They’ll opt in providing their email address too which in turn increases your email list!
#4 Promote on your website
Include a small banner on your website that promotes your SMS opt-in. Again, share the benefits your clients and customers will receive for opting in and perhaps a discount offer…which leads to our final tip…
#5 Offer a coupon, discount, or one-time deal
Use an enticing incentive like a coupon, discount, promo code, or a one-time deal to those who decide to text in to join your list.
Key takeaway: Keep in mind the ultimate benefits you’ll receive as a result of using SMS marketing to generate leads. You will now have another way to communicate with your prospects and clients…only this method is highly effective. Also, this is a great strategy to boost customer retention.
For more unique ways on lead generation strategies to improve your online marketing and meets the goals of your business, contact us here for a complimentary consultation!
