What if we told you we found the ultimate hack for you to reach open rates of 98% with your customer comms? Interested? We thought so..
In the digital age where innovation dominates, SMS marketing is making quite the comeback, proving itself as an indispensable tool for eCommerce retailers. As we leap into Q2 of 2024, embracing SMS marketing isn’t just an option; it’s a strategic imperative. Here’s why:
Unmatched Open and Response Rates
Forget the clutter of overflowing email inboxes; SMS cuts straight to the chase. With an overwhelming 98% of SMS messages opened and 95% read within just three minutes of receipt, SMS dominates as the king of engagement. According to eMarketer, Gen Z are even faster, engaging with a text within 1 minute of receiving it. This immediacy is unmatched by any other marketing channel, making SMS a powerhouse for time-sensitive communications.
Driving Immediate Action
With click-through rates soaring at 36%, SMS is not just about opening messages; it’s about sparking action. Whether it’s a flash sale, an exclusive offer, or a timely reminder, SMS drives consumer behaviour in real time, significantly boosting conversion rates. This direct and personal approach to messaging not only captivates attention but also translates into substantial sales uplift.
Building Customer Loyalty
SMS marketing excels in fostering loyalty. By sending personalised promotions, coupons, and exclusive updates directly to a customer’s mobile, brands effectively nurture ongoing engagement. Consider the segmentation strategy within your current EDM platform, is there an opportunity to nurture key segments? This could look like sending personalised promotions, offers or VIP experiences to your top tier spenders, or consider how you might leverage SMS to re-engage those customers at risk of dropping off to boost your retention. This personal touch enhances the customer experience, keeping your brand top-of-mind and strengthening customer loyalty.
High Conversion Rates and ROI
The tangible impact of SMS on the bottom line is undeniable. With conversion rates from SMS messaging campaigns reported to be 10-15 times higher than email, the return on investment is compelling. Before you adopt the dreaded spray and pray approach, really consider your channel strategy. What do you want to get out of SMS and use clever segmentation to drive your strategy to make sure you are maximising efficiency and profitability. Consider your Customer Journey, and identify opportunities where you could leverage this touchpoint to drive conversions. Use everything you have learned about your customers through EDMs and sales to create a highly targeted and personalised approach. The more meaningful the message is for the customer, the more likely it will convert, and the higher your ROI.
The Gateway to Mobile Commerce
As mobile commerce continues to rise, SMS is perfectly positioned to tap into this growing trend. It provides a seamless way for consumers to interact with brands on-the-go, making it easier than ever to convert mobile traffic into sales. From alerts about new products to checkout reminders, the ability to utilise similar automations you already have in your email marketing system create more opportunities to convert and retain your customers. SMS is an essential tool for capitalising on mobile shopping behaviours. In fact, according to Morning Consult Pro, 51% of millennials surveyed said they made a purchase based on an SMS message they received in the past month — the most of any major demographic.
HackGames: Case Study
But don’t just take our word for it. We like to practice what we preach here at MI Academy! We recently put SMS to the test during our 2024 flagship HackGames event, powered by our friends at Sinch Message Media. SMS was used in conjunction with email marketing to provide consistent communication and updates to our attendees and guests throughout the week of the event. We were blown away by the response rate we received from the SMS comms. Not only did it outperform email, but we found that our attendees were engaging with the messages, not as marketing comms, but as genuine text messages. The authenticity and personalisation that this channel added to the customer experience of the event was immeasurable and shows the application of SMS marketing goes far beyond texting customers about promotions.
As we navigate the complexities of modern eCommerce, SMS marketing emerges as a clear winner in the digital toolkit. With its exceptional open rates, quick responses, and substantial influence on sales, SMS is not just surviving; it’s thriving. As 2024 unfolds, integrating SMS into your marketing strategy isn’t just a smart move; it’s a critical one for staying competitive in the ever-evolving retail landscape. Are you ready to harness the power of SMS and transform your eCommerce strategy? The future is texting, don’t leave your business on read.