Opt In to Text-Message Marketing

This can save both businesses and customers hours of phone or email back-and-forth, and also permits multiple customers to be served simultaneously. Further, it allows the small-business owner to keep a complete log of conversations, which can be useful to build up an accurate customer database.

So how much do these services cost? "The prices ... generally run in the $2,500 to $7,500 range," says Gold, which for Gold Mobile covers the software, database maintenance, message aggregation and typically the initial 5,000 to 10,000 messages. Additional message capacity can be purchased if necessary.

Customer Service

Finally, text messaging encourages customer loyalty and expands the consumer base -- most people have their cell phone on them at all times, so this strategy makes use of the existing dependence on them.

For example, if a customer goes into a retail store and buys something, he or she can immediately text that receipt number and collect loyalty points from the retailer. Or, texting can be used to encourage repeat purchases by replacing a punch card (e.g. buy ten drinks, get one for free) -- customers can simply text-message receipt information, and the business will keep track of their purchases.

So for an innovative way of marketing your business, consider the possibilities of text messaging. You should be pleased with the opportunity to easily connect with customers and extend your company's reach.

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