Have you ever ignored an email but immediately read a text message? You’re not alone. With the average email open rate hovering around 21 percent and business text messages boasting a staggering 98 percent open rate, SMS is clearly the king of direct communication. 

But how did text messaging become so essential? And why are texts far more effective at engaging customers than other forms of communication? Well, we’re here to answer that and show you how business text messaging can capture your customers’ attention, too! 

The Rise of Business Text Messaging 

Text messaging has come a long way since the first SMS was sent in 1992. As traditional communication methods gave way to digital ones, SMS became more than just a quick way to say “hi.” It has become a powerful tool for businesses looking to interact with hyper-connected, hyper-mobile customers using their existing phone numbers. And here’s why: 

• High Open Rates: Unlike emails, which can get lost in cluttered inboxes, texts are almost always opened and read because most people are already on their phones. This makes SMS an incredibly effective way to ensure your message is seen. 

• Instant Communication: Text messaging is immediate. Customers receive and read texts within minutes, allowing businesses to deliver time-sensitive information like promotions, updates, or reminders. Plus, many customers prefer texts over phone calls. 

• Low Competition for Attention: In a world overrun by marketing emails, social media ads, and pop-ups, SMS is a less saturated channel. Because fewer businesses are using SMS, your texts are more likely to stand out and make an impact. 

Thanks to these benefits, text-enabling business lines are slowly becoming the norm for companies of all shapes and sizes. Now, you might be asking, “what’s the difference between your typical SMS offerings and business SMS platforms?” 

Well, “business-class” SMS platforms are professional-grade texting solutions that allow companies to send and receive texts on their landline number using an online platform. But what does this have to do with customer engagement? We’ll show you using an example. 

Key Customer Engagement Benefits of Business Class SMS Services 

Meet Janice, a fictional small business owner who creates and sells custom sweatshirts. Janice’s success hinges on her ability to connect with customers quickly and personally. Here’s how business SMS can help her boost engagement: 

Higher Response Rates 

Texts not only have high open rates, but they also have high response rates. Customers are way more likely to open and respond to a text than an email. For Janice, this means when she sends out a message about a new sweatshirt design or a special discount, her customers will likely see it immediately and act on it quickly. Imagine the boost in orders when your message gets instant attention! 

Personalization and Customization 

One of the great things about SMS is how you can make each message feel like it was crafted just for the recipient. Let’s say Janice knows that a customer recently bought a cozy winter hoodie. With iNet’s business class SMS services, she can send a personalized SMS offering a discount on a matching beanie. This kind of text doesn’t just catch the customer’s eye – it makes them feel valued and understood. And when customers feel appreciated, they’re more likely to stick around and engage with your brand. 

Superior Customer Service 

Picture this: a customer has just placed an order and is eagerly waiting for it to arrive. Instead of leaving them hanging, Janice can use a text messaging service to keep them in the loop with real-time updates about their order status.  

Or if they have a question, Janice can quickly address their concerns via text, making the whole process smoother and more efficient. 

By providing timely and relevant information, Janice increases customer satisfaction and builds a reputation for excellent service. 

Cost-Effectiveness 

Finally, let’s discuss the financial aspect of SMS – specifically when it comes to marketing. Compared to traditional methods like direct mail or expensive digital ads, SMS marketing is often much more affordable. For Janice, using a business landline for texting means she can save on marketing costs and reinvest those savings into her business.  

Maybe she will use the extra funds to offer better product prices or create new designs. Either way, the cost savings and effectiveness of SMS mean she can send messages that drive sales without going over budget. 

Implementing Business Class SMS Service 

Now that you know the advantages, it’s time to break free from phone calls and harness the power of business texting for yourself! Doing this effectively involves a few key steps: 

Step 1: Set Clear Objectives 

Determine your SMS goals, such as increasing sales, expanding your customer list, improving service, or boosting engagement. For example, Janice may aim to drive sales with special offers. 

Step 2: Comply with Regulations 

Make sure you’re following all the rules for SMS. This means getting customer consent to send texts and providing an easy way for them to opt-out. Janice can achieve this by having customers sign up in-store or online, offering a discount as an incentive, and including an opt-out option in her first text. 

Step 3: Segment Your Audience 

Group customers by interests or purchase history to guarantee the message is relevant to them. Janice could create segments like “Winter Wear Shoppers” and “New Customers” to send targeted promotions. 

Once this is done, you’ll need to text enable your existing landline number with iNet! 

Step 4: Start Simple 

Begin with basic SMS notifications and promotions. As you gain experience, explore advanced features like automated follow-ups and personalized messages. Janice might start with alerts about new designs, then move to more tailored offers. 

Step 5: Be Clear and Concise 

Keep messages short and straightforward with a clear call to action. For instance, Janice might send, “Check out our new hoodie design! Click here for 10% off.” Each message should provide valuable information to your customers. Avoid spammy or overly promotional content at all costs! 

H3: Step 6: Be Timely 

Send messages at appropriate times to avoid disturbing customers. For example, Janice should avoid late-night texts. 

Step 7: Monitor and Adjust 

Track campaign performance and adjust based on feedback and engagement. If Janice finds promotional texts are opened more but less responded to, she can tweak her strategy for better results. 

Why iNet’s Business text messaging Service Stands Out 

At iNet, we understand that every business has unique needs. That’s why our SMS service isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. We take the time to listen and tailor our SMS services to address your unique challenges and accomplish your goals fit your specific goals. 

Our commitment to customer satisfaction means we’re always here to offer support and guidance, ensuring you get the most out of your SMS campaigns. Whether you’re looking to increase engagement, harness the power of personalization, or improve your customer service, the team at iNet’s got your back. 

Get the Business Class SMS Service You Deserve with iNET

Ready to catapult your business to the next level of success with SMS customer engagement? Explore iNet’s SMS services today and discover how we can help you make every message count! Got questions, comments, or concerns? Reach out and we’d be happy to chat.