GET SEEN WITH SMS

SMS marketing has an average open rate of 98% and a response rate of around 45%; much higher than traditional email marketing. That makes text messaging a direct line to your customer’s pocketbooks. But capitalizing on all this potential requires the right software. So, what makes a good SMS marketing platform? In this article, we’ll dive into the features and functionalities you should look for to ensure your software empowers you to craft effective and engaging SMS marketing campaigns.

ESSENTIAL FEATURES

A solid foundation is crucial for any successful marketing strategy. Here are the core functionalities every SMS marketing platform should offer:

• Ease of Use: Complexity shouldn’t hinder your marketing efforts. A user-friendly platform with a clear and intuitive interface allows you to navigate, create campaigns, and analyze results effortlessly, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
• Contact Management: Building a targeted subscriber list is vital. Look for software that allows you to easily import contacts, segment them into groups based on demographics or preferences, and manage opt-ins and opt-outs seamlessly.
• Campaign Creation: Creating compelling SMS campaigns shouldn’t be a time-consuming ordeal. The software should offer user-friendly message templates, drag-and-drop editors, and the ability to schedule messages for optimal delivery times.
• Two-Way Messaging: Foster a two-way conversation with your customers. Enable features like automated responses, keyword triggers, and the ability to receive replies within the platform. This allows for real-time engagement and personalized interactions. Our consolidated inbox shows all message history, something many other platforms do not offer.
• Detailed Reporting: Track your campaign performance and measure success. The software should provide key metrics like open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates. These insights allow you to maximize your return on investment (ROI).

ADVANCED FEATURES

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s highlight some advanced features that can elevate your SMS marketing game:

• Segmentation and Personalization: Tailor your messages to resonate with specific customer segments. Features like merge tags, allowing you to include customer names or purchase history, can significantly boost engagement.
• Automated Campaigns: Automation allows you to save time and effort by automating repetitive tasks. Look for software that allows you to set up automated drip campaigns triggered by specific events, like abandoned carts, birthdays, or order confirmations.
• MMS Messaging: Expand your creative reach beyond plain text. Explore platforms that support Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) for sending images, videos, and GIFs, making your campaigns more visually appealing and interactive.
• Security and Compliance: Ensure your platform adheres to industry regulations like GDPR and TCPA. Look for robust security features to safeguard customer data.

CHOOSING YOUR SOFTWARE

With so many SMS marketing platforms available, choosing the right one boils down to your specific needs and budget. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

• Company Size & Needs: Small businesses may prioritize user-friendliness and affordability, while larger enterprises may require advanced features and scalability.
• Campaign Volume & Frequency:  Estimate the number of texts you plan to send and how often. Choose a platform with pricing plans that align with your projected usage.
• Integrations:  Ensure the platform integrates seamlessly with the tools you already use.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

SMS marketing offers a powerful and direct way to connect with your customers. By choosing an SMS marketing software equipped with the right features for your needs, you can craft engaging campaigns that drive results and cultivate strong customer relationships. We pride ourselves on providing a platform that can fit all the needs we covered in this article, and much more.

Follow the practices above to improve client engagement and watch satisfaction rates soar! And check out our other articles for more advice on specific industries and use cases.