With the rise of e-commerce and online retailers can offer something that most brick and mortar businesses aren’t able too and that is SMS marketing. This allows them to offer exclusive incentives to their new and existing customers to grow their SMS marketing list and drive sales.
This is a standard strategy in the e-commerce and retail space. Text messages can be promotional or non-promotional or a mixture of the two.
Today we are sharing five ways e-commerce and retailers can quickly grow their SMS marketing list.
1. Offer a Discount
One of the most common strategies for inviting new subscribers is giving shoppers a site-wide discount in exchange for their phone number to join your SMS list. People are more willing to sign up for a brand’s text messaging list if the brand offers them a discount in return for subscribing. You can offer a percentage off or a certain amount off their first order. Create a buzz around your SMS marketing by offering exclusive access to events or contests reserved solely for subscribers. Whether it’s a VIP early access sale, a behind-the-scenes tour, or a giveaway with exciting prizes, make it clear that the only way to participate is by subscribing to your SMS updates. This not only incentivizes people to join your list but also fosters a sense of exclusivity and belonging among your audience.
2. Conduct A/B Testing Often
If SMS marketing is new for your business it would be smart to run an A/B test. See what type of content resonates well with your subscribers and when your subscribers are most active by testing day and times messages are sent out. Play around with your copy and keep track of your KPI to see which wording is most successful. Generally, texts perform well when the copy is short and straight to the point. Instead of relying on traditional opt-in forms, leverage interactive experiences to capture the attention of potential subscribers. For example, you could create a chatbot that engages users in a conversation and offers them the option to subscribe to your SMS updates as part of the interaction. Alternatively, gamify the opt-in process by turning it into a quiz, trivia challenge, or interactive story, making it fun and engaging for users to join your list.
3. Create Urgency
People hate feeling like they missed out on something, so create the feeling of FOMO with urgency. Grow your SMS marketing list with time-sensitive deals. For example, you can utilize this strategy with new product launches, holidays, or with the customer’s birthday so they can feel exclusive. Take advantage of these special occasions with time-sensitive offers like “today only”, “this weekend only” or “ 3 hours only” on your sign-up unit creates the feeling of urgency for your customers to sign-up or miss out on an opportunity for a great deal. Offer irresistible incentives such as discounts, coupons, freebies, or exclusive content in exchange for signing up for your SMS updates. Whether it’s a limited-time offer, a birthday surprise, or a welcome gift, make sure the value proposition is clear and compelling enough to entice people to opt in to your SMS list.
4. Try Non-Promotional Offers
There are many types of non-promotional messages that you can write to send to your customers that will build brand loyalty, engage your customers, and drive revenue for your business. Here are some ideas that your marketing team can try: free shipping, exclusive access to new product launches or behind-the-scenes content, and tips on how to use your product. These are all effective methods to engage your customers and increase sales. Expand your reach and attract new subscribers by partnering with complementary businesses or influencers in your niche. Collaborate on joint promotions, giveaways, or co-branded campaigns that encourage their audience to subscribe to your SMS list in exchange for special perks or benefits. By tapping into their existing fan base, you can quickly grow your subscriber list while also building valuable partnerships that benefit both parties.
5. Cross-Promote Your SMS with Other Marketing Channels
SMS complements your other marketing channels such as email, social media, paid ads, and in-store promotions. Leverage all the web assets that you have such as a landing page for a specific campaign include it in your email marketing, social media, and paid ads campaigns. This will aid in growing your text messaging list.
Maximize the visibility of your SMS opt-in opportunities by strategically placing them across your website and social media channels. Incorporate prominent call-to-action buttons, pop-up banners, or dedicated landing pages that highlight the benefits of subscribing to your SMS updates. Additionally, use your social media platforms to regularly promote your SMS program and encourage followers to join for exclusive deals, updates, or insider information.
One of the best strategies that you can implement in this case is by doing a giveaway on Social media. If you have followed any influencer you know they love to do swipe links on Instagram Stories and Facebook Stories. Utilizing social stories is an excellent way to attract new subscribers.
