Digital marketing has gone beyond email and pay-per-click ads. The popularity of smartphones has opened doors for you to reach out to your customers in more effective ways. That’s why small businesses like yours should take advantage of promoting with SMS keywords (or text keywords) and text messaging because it’s the best way to engage with your customers.
Use This Checklist for Your SMS Keywords
Obtaining a long code number and SMS keyword is only the beginning. You’ll need to get the news out to potential customers and your loyal ones. How do you do it? There are more opportunities for people to sign up for text alerts than you may realize. Follow the checklist below to help get organized and reduce those missed opportunities.
1. Website
Your number and SMS keywords should be displayed in the header of each page on your website. There should also be a full page devoted to explaining how your text marketing works, as well as the features and benefits.
2. Social Media
Frequent posts to your social media pages will inform your followers about the keyword. When you encourage them to share it with family and friends, you’ll increase your reach.
3. Email
Every email you send should have the keyword in the header or footer. This is especially important if you send out a newsletter or coupons. You can also put it in the subject line, but try to do this sparingly to avoid negative impressions.
4. Digital Ads
Because of their size and function, digital ads are perfect for SMS
keywords. These are interactive and highly visible for a local audience, making it easier for them to opt-in.
5. Blog
You should have a blog post about your keyword. Then, you can follow it up with testimonials about your text message / SMS program.
6. Advertisements
Running ads in the paper? That’s a perfect place to display your keyword because it doesn’t take up much space and increases what you have to offer. As a matter of fact, all of your print advertising should have the keyword in it.
7. Business Cards
You can have business cards specifically printed for your keyword, or you can get new ones printed with the keyword on the back.
8. Tchotchkes
A wide range of items for self-promotion can tastefully display your keyword and number, such as pens, notepads, and flash drives.
9. Uniforms
Small businesses that use t-shirts for uniforms should strongly consider having the keyword printed on the back.
10. Table Tents
Restaurants and retailers can display their keyword on table tents throughout their establishment. You have a captive audience, so take advantage of it.
11. Menus
When updating menus, restaurants should consider displaying their keyword as an invitation for customers to become members of a special dining club.
12. In-Store Signage
A small sign can display your number and SMS keyword. This will let you maintain your aesthetic while getting the word out.
13. Direct Mail
You can send a postcard (stand-alone piece) or include your number and keyword on a larger direct mail piece that you have going out. This is a great way to entice potential customers into your store.
14. Events
At every event, no matter how small, your keyword allows attendees to learn more about your store and can join your loyalty program. Add it to your portable displays and table cloths.
15. Employees
Your employees are the best brand ambassadors you can have. They should be informing customers about the deals and promotions that are available through text messages. This is also something they can share through their social media.
16. Receipts
If possible, your receipts should have the number and keyword on it.
17. Contests
Design a contest for your customers to sign up using the number and keyword so they can be part of a drawing.
18. Surveys
Email surveys or comment cards both should display your keyword.
Create More Engagement With Your SMS Keywords.
Many of the items on this list are free, while others may require a substantial investment, but don’t let that scare you. Just remember that the returns on your investment will be higher than ever before because text messaging is the most targeted marketing you can do. The open rates are phenomenal. Plus, you’ll increase customer engagement with your brand. When you get the word out about your special program, and how easy it is to join, your customers will certainly take advantage of it.