Running a small business can be a juggling act, and keeping your customers happy is one of the most critical aspects. If you’re not a tech expert, the idea of using CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems might seem intimidating. But don’t worry – we’re here to tell you about a simple and effective way to use texting in your business that can make a big difference without the tech headaches.
#1. Personal Touch in Your Business
Texting is an easy way to connect with your customers on a personal level. Most of your customers are already using text messaging, so you’re meeting them where they’re comfortable. You can send friendly and personal messages, like saying thank you for their purchase or just checking in to see how they’re doing.
By using texting in this way, you create a connection that goes beyond just business. Customers appreciate this personal touch and are more likely to stay loyal to your brand.
#2. Making Appointments a Breeze
If your business relies on appointments, like a salon, medical practice, or repair service, texting can make your life a whole lot easier. You can send automated text reminders to your customers before their appointments. This simple step can help reduce no-shows and save you time and money.
Customers appreciate the reminder, too – it’s a helpful service that shows you care about their time.
Pro Tip: Don’t go overboard with text and phone call reminders. A dentist in the Reno area, who will go unmentioned, reminds his patients 5 times before an appointment. At that level, the reminders can get annoying!
#3. Quick and Easy Customer Support
Texting is a fantastic way to offer customer support. Your customers can text you their questions, and you can reply without any complicated phone systems or long hold times. It’s a simple and efficient way to help your customers when they need it.
Plus, all those text messages can be saved in your CRM system, so you have a record of your interactions and can provide better service in the future.
#4. Collecting Feedback without the Fuss
Getting feedback from your customers is essential for improving your services. Texting is a straightforward way to collect this valuable information. You can send a short survey via text after a customer makes a purchase or uses your service.
This feedback can help you make data-driven decisions to improve your business and keep your customers happy.
#5 Promotions and Marketing
Text messaging is a powerful marketing tool. You can send special promotions or updates to your customers through text. Since most people read their texts quickly, this can be a great way to get the word out about a sale or a new product.
A great example is a restaurant that is not going to be busy tonight. They may send a text out at 3pm today, offering a 2 for 1 special for dinner tonight. They are sure to hit some people at the right moment and get the restaurant busier than it would have been.
Pro Tip: All Text messages must have an opt-out option. Make sure you have your customers’ consent and an easy way for them to opt out. At the end of your message, say: “Reply STOP to opt-out”.
#6. Easier Team Communications
If your team is not using a unified communication system like Zoom or RingCentral, texting can help you improve internal communication within your business. Your team can use texting to communicate quickly and easily. For example, your sales team can text your support team about a new customer’s needs, or your service team can keep clients updated on the status of their requests.
This streamlined communication leads to better customer service and a more efficient operation.
#7 10DLC – Staying Secure and Compliant
When using text in your business, it’s important to follow the rules and protect customer information. Make sure you’re aware of any laws that apply to texting, and take steps to keep your customers’ data secure.
To send text messages from your business, you will need to register your brand and have an approved campaign registered. This may sound daunting, but with the AllClients Messages app, it is a snap. This process will make your business 10DLC compliant and allow you to send business text messages.
Using text in your business doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it’s a simple and effective way to connect with your customers and make your business more efficient. You don’t need to be a tech guru to use this powerful tool – just follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to improving your customer relationships and growing your small business.
