
What is SMS marketing? A text message marketing guide
SMS marketing, or text message marketing, is a direct communication strategy where businesses send promotional, transactional, or informational messages to customers and prospects via text.
SMS marketing, or text message marketing, is a direct communication strategy where businesses send promotional, transactional, or informational messages to customers and prospects via text.
SMS messaging (more commonly known as texting) is one of the most frequently used feature on smartphones. This means something very specific for marketers: If you have a message to get out, text messaging marketing (or SMS marketing) may just be the best way to share it. Read on to learn about mobile marketing tools and strategies to succeed with SMS.
Generally, SMS (text) marketing, also known as text messaging marketing or just text marketing, involves an opt-in stage. This is where users send a text to an automated system in order to have updates, discount codes, and other news sent directly to their phone. When the customer sends the initial message, an SMS marketing software solution stores the customer’s phone number in a database. The software then generally sends a confirmation text. The number is then retrieved and used whenever relevant marketing information can be shared. Clients retain the right to opt out of further messages at any time.
Perhaps the biggest benefits of SMS marketing services is that people are more willing to trust text over other marketing channels. The overwhelming majority of text messages are legitimate, with spam messages making up less than 5% of texts received. SMS marketing statistics show that, as a result, SMS text messages have a 98% open rate . This dwarfs the open rate of even email marketing, which is one of the most effective methods available, at 22%.
Another benefit of SMS marketing is just how quickly it allows you to engage with your customers. CTIA reports that the average response time for text messages is 90 seconds, compared to the hours — or even days — that they might wait to respond over other channels. IDC Research suggests that 79% of Americans have their phones with them at least 22 hours per day , which means that when you send an SMS message to a customer, they will likely see it within minutes.
Of course, there is more to SMS marketing than simply sending out texts. If a business wants to tap into this ripe market, there are several SMS marketing best practices to keep in mind:
As you select the best tool for your business to implement SMS marketing, keep a few questions in mind:
People use their phones. People trust their phones. SMS marketing builds upon that relationship. By providing clients and potential clients with direct, personal marketing, while also giving them the freedom to opt in or out of participation, SMS ensures that those receiving your messages are interested. Despite this, SMS marketing often gets overlooked when businesses plan out their marketing strategies. Take advantage of this valuable marketing channel. With SMS marketing, your message gets to where it needs to be — in the hands of your clients.