Local Messaging Trends for Businesses

Business communication trends are always changing, especially when new technology is introduced. The current trend is text messaging. People want to have quick conversations with the businesses they choose to use. In fact, 4 out of 10 Australians would switch to a company that uses text messaging as a means of communication (Podium, 2021).

Use our informative article to find out what the local messaging trends are, their benefits, and how to use them for marketing or customer communication.

Local Messaging Trends You Should Know About

Recent studies have shown that consumers prefer text messages from businesses. Trends show that 72% of people would purchase from a shop if they receive a text message from a real person (PR Newswire, 2021). Here are other trends from the same study:

• 60% of respondents would rather schedule their hair appointments via Text.
• 65% of respondents prefer text reminders for billing and payments.
• 72% of respondents would prefer to book travel plans via text.
• 75% of respondents say they find it helpful to receive text reminders for appointments.
• 45% of respondents prefer banking alerts via text.
• 36% of respondents prefer food delivery updates via text message.

Consumers have a shorter attention span because of the amount of information they’re bombarded with each day. Therefore, shorter text messages via SMS or chat sites are an ideal way to get your consumers full attention.

Benefits of Text Messaging   

There is only a small percentage of businesses that use text messages via SMS or chat sites. Business owners may not be aware of the many advantages text messaging can provide.

Customers tend to dislike being contacted by phone because it’s distracting and takes up too much of their time. With text messaging, consumers can respond in their free time, so it offers a level of convenience. Furthermore, your messages actually get read if they’re concise.

You may also experience these additional benefits:

• Increase in-store visits
• Boost in brand loyalty
• More customer engagements
• Increase in successful payments with reminders
• Less appointment no-shows
• Increased sales

Text vs. Email Messaging

Did you know that 95% of text messages are opened within 3 minutes after they’re sent? Experts suggest that you have a 209% higher open rate with text messages compared to email or Facebook marketing. What’s more, offers and coupons provide a higher open rate when sent via text message.

Customers may ignore marketing emails because of inbox overload. Another reason why emails are ignored is that they’re sent at the wrong time. And some consumers only use their emails for emergencies so they may not see your email immediately.

So, if you want better reach and a higher click-through rate, text messaging is an excellent option.

5 Text Messaging Practices You Should Use

If you’re ready to start implementing text messaging to communicate with consumers there are a few factors you need to keep in mind. To prevent losing the trust of your consumers consider implementing these five text messaging practices.

Include Opt-in and Opt-Out Options

Every business that sends out SMS texts to consumers must include opt-in and opt-out options to stay compliant. If you don’t include these rules, you will undermine the trust of your consumers and it will damage your reputation.

The opt-out and opt-in options allow customers to choose whether they want to continue to the next step or not. The consumer can select the opt-out option if they decide not to take the next step or stop receiving texts.

Watch Your Use of Language

It can be easy to offend people with the incorrect use of language. That’s why it’s important to use the correct terms when sending text messages to customers.

When typing text messages avoid using slang words because this can create misunderstanding and affect your company’s professionalism. Instead, use conversational language that’s cheery and keep your messages short.

Include phrases that will capture the attention of the reader. If you’re running a promotion, be sure to highlight the benefits of it in your SMS. Take a look at the following example:

Relevant Content with Enticing CTAs

Always create relevant content for your target audience. Don’t send text messages to people who aren’t going to be interested in what you’re selling. You’ll also miss the opportunity to convert your leads if you don’t include an enticing CTA (Call to Action).  

If you want the respondent to take the next step include a CTA and a link to the webpage you want your customer to visit. Here are CTAs that may work for your SMS:

Personalise Text Messages

A personalised text message is when you address the recipient by name or provide offers that are exclusive to their needs. When you personalise your text messages it makes the recipient feel appreciated. Experts also suggest that consumers prefer personalisation when interacting with brands.

When you send personalised text messages you may experience the following benefits:

• Increased engagement rates
• Rapid feedback through interactive content
• Trust and loyalty development
• Helps you improve your product/service recommendations
• Boosts sales

Consider Using an Autoresponder

Sometimes your customers will send a response to your text message outside of working hours. In this case, you’ll want to use an autoresponder to ensure your recipient receives a quick response. You could inform the recipient that they’ll receive a response as soon as possible or during working hours.

Customers don’t want to be kept waiting but if you send them an automatic response they’ll be informed about your processes.

Extra Tips When Sending Text Messages to Customers

If you want to start communicating with your customers via text message, there are a few things you must avoid and some information to always include. So, remember the following when you start texting your customers:

• Only send relevant content to your recipient once you receive an opt-in permission 
• Don’t spam your recipients
• Avoid sending messages outside of business hours
• Don’t ignore responses
• Always include your company name
• Make sure links to website pages are working
• Avoid sending long walls of text

Final Thoughts

Do you need assistance with your SMS marketing campaign? Don’t risk losing potential leads with incorrect practices. If you want professional marketing solutions Digital Insider is here to help you every step of the way. We want to help you convert your leads into loyal paying customers.

If you want to start communicating with your customers via SMS then visit our website to request your strategy plan. Or call us on 0459 845 633 for more details on our services.

References

Podium. 2021. 2021 Local Business Messaging Trends. [online] Available at: https://www.podium.com.au/ebooks/2021-local-business-messaging-trends/

PR Newswire. 2021. Study Shows U.S. Customers Prefer Texting With Businesses. [online] Available at: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/study-shows-us-customers-prefer-texting-with-businesses-300974034.html