The worldwide Covid-19 pandemic has put businesses and individuals to the test. In the face of the pandemic, businesses have appreciated the value of digital preparedness today more than ever. Companies today are seeking ways to keep their staff and customers engaged at a low cost. One of the most underrated tools that have proven its value during the pandemic is the use of Bulk SMS. With a substantial portion of the population having mobile phones, SMS marketing has the potential to reach a broader demographic than other forms of advertising.
The biggest advantage of SMS marketing is that 98% of SMS are opened compared to 30% of emails for marketing campaigns. In fact, 90% of text messages are opened within five minutes of arriving. While other forms of marketing, such as email marketing, end up in spam, marketers using SMS marketing tools such as Simple SMS, have a higher rate of reaching their clients. Customers are also more likely to act on an SMS than on email or social media advertisements. As such, SMS marketing is one of the most reliable marketing tools available today.
Marketing costs account for the biggest expenses for successful businesses. With the steady decline in sales in the wake of Covid-19, companies need to be conscious of their expenses. As such, companies need to adopt cost-effective ways to draw in customers and generate revenue. SMS marketing is highly versatile due to its customization to fit different agendas. Additionally, it is incredibly cost-effective compared to purchasing marketing slots on niche websites and social media platforms.
Contrary to popular belief, Bulk SMS is not only for advertising. There are several ways in which organizations can use Bulk SMS. During this time of social distancing and working from home, companies need to provide communication to staff. For instance, companies can use SMS to inform employees of various policy changes or expectations due to the pandemic. These can be work hours, shipping protocols, HR, and customer services. Companies can also use Bulk SMS to update staff on day-to-day activities while sharing reminders.
Similarly, businesses can use SMS marketing to reach new customers with their products and services. They can also use Bulk SMS to keep customers up to date with the availability of specific products or moving to different locations. They can also use Bulk SMS to help clients find stores near their location hence increase turnaround. Online stores can reassure clients of their hygiene practices to prevent the spread of Covid-19, such as their sanitizing protocols. Stores can also use it to market new and upcoming products to their clientele.
The use of Bulk SMS can also be highly beneficial to NGOs and local governments. Such organizations may use SMS to share relevant news and updates on matters pertaining to the pandemic. That may include donation and relief efforts, regulations about the pandemic, or opportunities to volunteer, among other things. In fact, with SMS marketing, organizations can personalize messages and address clients by name. In turn, this builds rapport and helps increase trust over time.
Simple SMS is an excellent tool for Bulk SMS and marketing campaigns. During such trying times, companies need to make greater use of such tools to improve their communication. From communicating with staff to gaining new clients, SMS marketing can significantly benefit organizations. With the current stay at the home directive, companies need to incorporate SMS marketing into their marketing tools list.
By Christine Njoki - Published 31st Jul 2020, 02:00pm