Getting the best out of SMS marketing If you decide to use SMS marketing as a promotional tool you will no doubt want to get the most out of this medium. As a means of reaching consumers, sms text messaging software is quite simply using texts or SMS to send a message. This is just another form of marketing or advertising similar to billboards, ads in newspapers or magazines, the internet or television. If you want to let a group of consumers know about a new product line, a special deal, promotion or offer or just a reminder of your brand then SMS marketing is a relatively straightforward way to do it. Since most consumers now possess a mobile phone, you are virtually guaranteed to reach your target audience. Keeping it simple But while you may be guaranteed to reach your audience, it is worth remembering that you have a limited amount of space to convey your message. Unlike more traditional means of advertising or marketing, an SMS is merely a snapshop of what you are offering with your message literally reduced to a limited number of characters. The key to deciphering how to use SMS marketing and creating its content is to keep it simple and to the point. With a limited amount of space you need to hook the reader straight away and this is something to bear in mind when briefing your creative team who will create the message. The SMS is sometimes best used as bait to let the consumer know about an offer or deal? And can be used to entice them to find out more through a link or other means. Respect customer rights Whatever message you decide on, there is one very important point that you will do well to keep in mind. Although you may have a list of mobile numbers belonging to clients with whom you have already built up a relationship, you have to make sure that each customer has agreed to be reached by sms services. Most companies now offer an opt-in or opt-out facility when customers provide their mobile number. This is very important as privacy and intrusion laws are becoming very strict and your company should be aware of the rules. Seeking permission from customers to be reached by SMS is crucial in maintaining a good relationship with them. Equally, if they feel they are being bombarded with messages and having their privacy intruded upon they are unlikely to have a lot of respect for your brand. Keeping your SMS marketing simple and respecting the privacy of your customers is a good starting point to a successful SMS marketing campaign.