The Unparalleled Advantage of Text Message Leads
The primary benefit of text message leads lies in their instant, personal nature. A text vp communication officers email list message feels less formal and more direct than an email, creating a sense of immediacy and urgency. This is especially true for leads who are actively on the go or prefer quick, bite-sized communication.
High Open and Response Rates: As mentioned, the open rate for text messages is nearly perfect. Furthermore, the response rate is far higher than that of email. This means you can quickly qualify a lead and move them to the next stage of the sales funnel, without having to wait days for a response.
Speed of Delivery: In the world of lead generation, speed is everything. A text message is delivered and often read within seconds. This allows you to follow up with a prospect the moment they express interest, striking while the iron is hot.
Personal and Conversational: Texting is a conversational medium. This allows for a more relaxed and personal back-and-forth, which can help build a relationship and trust with a potential client much faster than a formal email exchange.
Strategies for Generating and Managing Text Message Leads
Generating text message leads requires a strategic approach that is both transparent and compliant with regulations like the TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act).
Opt-In is Non-Negotiable: The most crucial rule of text message marketing is to obtain explicit consent. You can't just start texting people. A prospect must willingly and knowingly provide their phone number and agree to receive text messages from your business. This can be done through a web form, a text-to-join keyword, or at the point of sale.
Use Text as a Lead Magnet: A powerful way to generate leads is to offer a valuable piece of content or a special offer in exchange for a text message opt-in. For example, a real estate agent could use a sign in front of a property that says, "Text 'HOME456' to [phone number] to get a video tour and more photos." This provides an immediate, valuable exchange and gives you a qualified lead's phone number.
Automate the Follow-Up: Once you have a text message lead, you need to act on it immediately. Use a marketing automation platform or a CRM with SMS capabilities to create an automated follow-up sequence. The first message should be an instant confirmation and a thank you. Subsequent messages can provide more value and guide the lead through the sales funnel.
Combine with Other Channels: Text message leads are most powerful when they are part of a multi-channel strategy. You can use text messages to remind people about a webinar they registered for via email, or to follow up after a phone call. This synergy creates a cohesive and effective lead nurturing system.