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In 2012 Forrester Research reported that the number of texts per day in the United States had reached 6 Billion. The research conglomerate is still compiling the most recent statistics, but it is safe to say that the number of SMS messages sent and received per day has continued to increase. The popularity of this communication platform has led to bulk SMS software that is designed to streamline processes and improve marketing results.
5 Secrets For Using Bulk SMS Software To Achieve Impactful Results
If you are planning on running a mobile text messaging campaign, then you should explore the five secrets for success, as provided by the top bulk SMS software.
Secret #1 – Segment Your Audience
The top secret of a successful mobile text messaging or SMS campaign is that it targets the right people at the right time. Marketing messages that are deemed "useful" can be used to create a powerful following of loyal brand ambassadors. However, in order to create useful messages, you must first segment your intended audience into highly specific niche groups. The following characteristics and data types can help you to properly segment your intended audience:
- Customer purchase history.
- Customer wish lists.
- Customer demographics (age, gender, ethnicity, etc.).
- Customer location.
- Customer communication preferences (some clients prefer to be sent both text messages and emails).
Secret # 2 – Message Timing Is Key
As with most things in life, timing is everything. The timing of your SMS campaign incorporates two factors, 1) the time that the bulk SMS software automatically sends the message out, and 2) the timeline that is established within the actual message. As a general rue of thumb open-ended messages are less successful than messages that contain deals that expire at a set date and time. Your SMS message should create a sense of urgency from the recipient; they should be compelled to immediately check out the message's deal or offering.
Secret #3 – Keep Messages To The Point
Most carriers still limit the length of a text message to 160 characters. This means that your message needs to quickly get to the point. An example of a short, simple, and sweet SMS message would be "75% off your next online order. Click here to discover your fall wardrobe. Expires Sunday." The message is straightforward, quickly gets to the point, provides easy instructions with a direct call to action, and alerts the customer to the deal's expiration date.
Secret #4 – Pretty Links Encourage Clicks
Not only are lengthy URLs unsightly, but they also detract from your available number of characters. Shortening the URL is a very easy way to make it more appealing. You can also create customized links, such as "Click Here," or "Discover The Best Deal Now." When accompanied with the telltale underline, will encourage recipients to click on the embedded link.
Secret #5 – Never Give In To Spam
The ability to use bulk SMS software to automatically send SMS messages to current, past, or potential clients is a privilege. As a privilege it is not a right. In other words, you shouldn't bother your recipients by committing the following "SMS sins" --
- Sending messages too often.
- Sending too many consecutive messages.
- Sending repeat messages.
- Sending messages to clients who have opted out.
- Sending pointless messages.
In short, no one likes spam emails and no one likes spam SMS messages. Make sure that you always respect the preferences of your clients and you will be well on the road towards SMS marketing success.
With these top five secrets in mind you will soon be ready to use the power of a bulk SMS software to implement your latest mobile marketing campaign. As with any marketing campaign, tracking, analyzing, and managing your individual SMS marketing efforts will help you to create the optimal marketing results that are beneficial to both you and your customers.
