Tips for Startups to Use Bulk SMS Technique

The 21st century officially welcomed the startup culture around the world. Breaking away from the monotony of big oligarchs, startups emerge as a novel competitor in the industry. However, in the sea of cut-throat competition, a startup venture will likely dissipate into nothingness in a short span. To strengthen their presence among potential leads and clients, startups must embrace the bulk SMS technique under which they can interact with their targeted audience by sending/receiving text messages.

This is an economical marketing technique that helps startups that are already under the burden of limited resources to reach out to a wider customer base. Also, considering the fact that a large number of people own a smartphone and are likely to check their messages, SMS marketing is indeed a great way to reach out to a larger customer base.

Types of Bulk Messages for Startups

Startups can use bulk messages to introduce themselves to new leads and clients, inform about the latest deals to the existing clients, or communicate offers and other promotions to their targeted audience. Generally, bulk SMS can be divided into the following two categories:

• Promotional Bulk SMS
• Transactional Bulk SMS

Promotional Bulk SMS

Have you ever received a message from your favorite food chain telling you about the hard-to-miss meals they are offering? Such messages generally fall under the promotional bulk SMS. Under this kind of SMS marketing technique, startups send promotional messages to their existing and potential clients. Startups can use this feature to offer first order or signup discounts to new clients.

Transactional Bulk SMS

These bulk SMS are a little advanced than the former. They are used by the businesses to reach out to customers who have already had some sort of interaction with the businesses. These SMS messages usually contain sign-up and log-in notifications, authentication SMS, one-time passwords, etc.

Why Should Startups Opt for SMS?

Many businesses rely on email marketing to reach out their clients. Even though it is an effective way to promote your businesses, there is always a risk of the email message left unread. On the other hand, text messages are more likely to be read. This means that they are an effective way to get your customers hear you out. Today, almost 96% of Americans have mobile phone of some kind. This means that through SMS marketing, you can reach out to a significantly large number. 

Tips for Startups to Use Bulk SMS Technique

The bulk SMS technique is a great way for startups to strengthen their presence in the market. Here are some tips that can help startups to use this effective technique in an efficient manner.

1.       Cost

The first thing to do when you are adopting this technique as your marketing strategy is to calculate its cost. Startups who have just ventured out don’t have enough funds to splurge on advertisement – the cost of which can be humungous. Then, look for a service provide which can help you reach out to a number of customers.

2.       Brevity of Message

SMS messages ought to be short and clear. It is also important to explain to your clients why you are sending a particular message to them. Your clients will leave the messages mid-way if they are long and laced with jargons, too salesy, etc. To prevent this from happening, you will have to focus on making your SMS messages sharp, short, and crisp. The message, however, should be complete and have all the relevant information. For example, if you are a web-based startup, you should include a sign-up link in your message so that people can easily land on your site and sign up.

3.       Research Your Audience

To whom are you sending this message – this is important! If your startup targets businessmen, for example, you will have to adopt a more formal tone. On the other hand, young people would be attracted by a message that is ‘relevant’ with proper references to pop culture, etc.

4.       Allow Them to Cancel

Many people get irritated by constant messages they receive from a business entity. And while sending informative and promotional messages are a great way to advertise your business, you should allow your clients to decline receiving the messages. However, it is also important to mention that some customers do appreciate receiving timely updates from a business. So, don’t let the usual opt-outs make you have second thoughts on your marketing strategy.

5.       Offer Something Unique

What is the purpose of your message? For how long will you advertise your company through SMS messages? For your existing clients, you will have to think of new ways to get them read your message and take the required action. For example, you can send a time-bound offer to your clients via SMS urging them to avail your product(s) or service(s) within the given deadline.

6.       Call-to-Action

Messages that have a clear call to action at the end have better engagement rates. Make sure that you have a clear CTA in your message.

7.       Be Consistent

The road to success for startups, especially, is quite bumpy. There are so many ups and downs that you have to face to go ahead. It is possible that after the first few attempts, you couldn’t reach the desired customer base. Even then, you will have to deal with plenty of opt-outs. However, don’t let these small hiccups demotivate you. Remain consistent in your approach.

The Final Word

Does this seem like a doable way to increase your customer base? It sure is. However, when using the service, work on the content of the message, and make it crisp and short. The other thing that you have to be mindful of is the fact that the people you are sending your messages to want them as well. Once you and your customers are on the same page, you will see that SMS marketing technique is a great way to keep your clients up-to-date relating to different deals, offers and discounts, appointments, and other critical information. If emails and phone calls aren’t getting you the results you want in terms of reaching customers, nurturing customer relationships, or converting leads, then perhaps it’s time for you to give a business texting service a try