There is a whole generation growing up right now who think the internet is only found on their phone. They’re not using a desktop or laptop computer. They’re on smart phones, tablets, and ipods. If your website and marketing plan isn’t ready for this mobile presence shift, you’re in BIG trouble.
Obviously having a mobile friendly website is the first step, but a close second may be text message marketing.
If you own an automotive shop, what if there was a way for you to send out a text message to all those past customers when they are due for an oil change or routine maintenance? Guess what, you can. And here’s how it works.
When a customer comes into your store, you ask for their cell phone number to add to their account in your database. In return they get a small discount off of the current service you’re providing. When the elapsed time between standard servicing has been reached, you can send them a text reminder to come in for service. They get this instantly!
Another way to do this is when a customer comes in for service, you give them a card with a specific numerical or alphabetical code which they will text to a number provided by your text marketing service provider. They will then automatically receive a small discount coupon texted back to them, and be added to your sms/text messaging group list. You can then message the entire group about specials, service reminders, and automotive tips.
Marketing is connecting. Marketing is selling in advance. Marketing is helping potential customers to know, like, and trust you. As the mobile shift continues to grow and evolve, it’s going to be harder and harder to do this without a strategic mobile presence in place.
Google recently came out with some updated statistics on mobile usage. If you think that your customers aren’t the smart phone type, or are not looking up your business info on their phones, think again.
- 94% of smartphone owners look for local information on their phone
- Google conducts 30 million click-to-calls each month
- 81% of mobile searches are driven by speed and convenience, even when people are at home with access to other devices
- When people use mobile search they are 39% more likely to call a business
- 40% of smart phone users will click another mobile result if a site isn’t mobile friendly
Connecting with customers where they are at is one of the hallmarks of effective marketing. Even though I don’t know who your customers are, I’ll bet that no matter where they are physically located, they’re going to have their mobile phone with them on a regular basis. So the question for you as a business owner is: “how do I reach customers on their mobile device?”
Fortunately, Google has put together a resource called the Mobile Playbook. It’s designed to help your business get up to speed on all the latest search, social, and mobile options. I highly recommend checking it out.
If you’re a visual learner, like me, the infographic below will give a better sense of where mobile is at.
Finally, if you want to learn a little more about mobile marketing and improving your business presence with mobile, check out the podcast episode “Mobilizing Your Website” on the Social Media Marketing podcast.
How does your business’ mobile presence stack up?
