If there’s one change you make to your business this year then make sure that change involves implementing mobile marketing into your overall marketing strategy. A recent survey by IHS predicted that smartphones will claim half the mobile phone market within the year with this figure set to reach two thirds by 2016. At the same time, an infographic from E-consultancy revealed that mobile internet usage will take over desktop usage by 2014.
These statistics alone highlight how vital it is that you strive to embrace all aspects of the mobile arena. So with this in mind, take a look at some of the following ways you can help switch your business on to mobile marketing:
1. Use mobile advertising:
There are plenty of different formats available for advertising to mobile phone users. Many of these follow the same route as basic internet marketing using methods such as pay-per-click. You can also place adverts within mobile games and other applications to make sure you are giving your business as wide a reach as possible.
2. Optimise your website for mobile browsing:
More and more people are using their mobile phones to search and browse the internet, especially while on-the-go or at the same time as completing activities such as watching television. You need to ensure that your website is mobile friendly so that users who access your site can do so with ease. Mobile optimisation of your site is simple to do and relatively cheap, and it will prevent you missing out on potential customers due to having a site that is difficult to access via a smartphone or tablet device.
3. Embrace local search:
The great thing about mobile is the fact that it allows users to access content while on-the-go. If your customers see an advertisement or product that catches their eye they can easily look it up on the spot to get the information they need and that could lead to a purchase. This is the same for acquiring basic information such as finding a nearby service such as a restaurant or hair salon.
Businesses that have taken the time to make their details available in online directories and local search functions on search engines are guaranteed to have greater success with drawing in customers as people like to have all the information they need about a company in one place. Your customers are unlikely to waste time searching for your web address, contact details or opening times if you haven’t provided them. They will simply go to one of your competitors instead. Therefore, keeping your details up-to-date and accurate for mobile searchers is essential.
4. Start texting more:
Once your customers have opted in to receiving SMS updates on your product or service it is important to keep them interested by sending them relevant, quality content. This will keep your customers engaged with the goings on within your business while increasing your likelihood of sales. Try sending a variety of content ranging from mobile coupons and other discounts to information about your business that your customers need to know about. SMS isn’t just for consumer industries though. For those in the service industries, using SMS technology to keep clients updated with appointment times, delivery schedules and IT systems alerts is a great way to build customer satisfaction.
For more information on the benefits of using SMS marketing as part of your mobile marketing strategy please call our Customer Care team on 08451 221 302 if you have any questions.