One of the first steps in starting an SMS text message marketing program is to create a database. This article includes helpful tips on building your SMS database. Find out how to build your SMS database via customers, referral systems, and other professional services.
One of the hottest new marketing trends is to use text messaging. SMS text messaging is a good way to let customers — and potential customers — know about deals and opportunities. SMS messaging has so much potential because the messages are sent to cell phones. That means that your customers are likely to have them with them wherever they go. Additionally, SMS marketing messages are attention grabbing; customers are notified when a message comes in. However, it can be difficult to know how to get a list of customers who can receive your SMS marketing messages. Happily, there are some things you can do to build your SMS database.
Adding Names to Your SMS Database
One of the most important things you can do is to begin building a database that can be used to send out text messages. This is helpful because your SMS database will provide you with a way to reach hundreds — or even thousands — of people at once. This is a very efficient way to get the word out about special promotions and deals, and encourage people to come into your place of business. Here are 3 strategies you can employ to help you build you SMS database:
- Ask your customers for their numbers: One of the things you can do is ask your customers for their mobile phone numbers. You will need to let customers know that they are getting something that is value-added. Let customers know that you will be sending out occasional SMS text messages about exclusive deals and discounts. You can also provide them with some sort of extra when they do sign up. An immediate discount on something, or offering a gift or prize, is a great way to encourage sign ups. You will need to make it easy for customers to sign up. Be sure that customers can easily provide you with their cell phone number. You can do this by using a web site, or by having a sign up sheet. In any case, you will need to effectively communicate the advantages of receiving these text messages, and make it easy for customers to follow through. Once you do have their numbers, though, you will need to be careful not to spam customers with too many SMS marketing messages.
- Set up a referral system: Another way to build your SMS database is to set up a referral system. Use your current customers to help you find new customers. Offer a special discount to customers who refer someone else, and offer a discount to the person who was referred. If you make it worth their while, your own customers will aid you in building your SMS database. Make sure you have some way of tracking referrals so that you can accurately reward those who help you out.
- Professional services: In addition to building your own SMS database, it is also possible to expand your possibilities using a different list. There are some professional services out there that can help you by providing a list of subscribers to a certain service. This offers you instant access to a SMS database. However, it will likely cost more than building your database all on your own. But, in some cases, it can be worth it.
Building a good SMS database might take some time. You need to be prepared to cultivate your customer base, and offer worthwhile rewards for those who participate in receiving text messages about your business. While purchasing a list from someone, or subscribing to a text message marketing service, can help you build your database faster. Many businesses use a combination of the two techniques to get names for their databases. Whatever you decide, though, the important thing is to build a database of customers interested in receiving your messages — and responding to them.