There is no denying that SMS is a very powerful medium of communication.

With a whopping 99% open rate, SMS can be leveraged across the customer lifecycle for effective marketing.

There are three effective ways to leverage SMS to engage with customers at every stage of the customer lifecycle.Integrate SMS with customer supportThere are three effective ways to leverage SMS to engage with customers at every stage of the customer lifecycle.

Let us look at these:

Stage 1:

SMS to capture the prospective buyers’ domain.

You can start by enticing the new prospects for your products.

With a success rate of 30% opens, SMS campaigns can immediately follow once the customers sign up for SMS on various channels.

Usually, SMS campaigns complement email marketing strategy.

Since lead generation is the goal, either way, an integrated campaign works better.

That said then, your SMS campaign with a prepopulated text can be sent using bulk SMS matching your other marketing efforts in branding.

At this stage, you can simply introduce the brand and allow the customers to feel the need for the products.

Stage 2:

Use SMS marketing for creating interest and generate leads.

Now that you are in the fold of SMS start engaging with the prospects and existing customers.

Here are the various pieces you can send to evoke the attention of the customers:

• Send product updates and new product launches
• Ensure your customers get the first knowledge of special promotions and exclusive offers
• Trigger messages to customers who had products in the shopping bag but did not complete the transaction
• Share links to your website blog posts, and product-related information pages
• Engage the customers with a branding story by including your employees in the story
• Inform them first of the brand loyalty programs

Stage 3:

Make SMS a brand loyalty booster

• SMS is not just for generating leads and sales but building brand loyalty too!
• Create a quick two-way communication channel with customers through SMS
• Resolve their inquiries immediately by responding on SMS
• Integrate SMS with customer support and help desk to serve customers quickly
• You can also collect feedback via SMS by sending a survey link or have a rating method

Customers are human beings who appreciate it if you care

SMS is one such quick and effective method of engaging, retaining, and building trusting relationships with your customers.