Today’s world moves at a pace that would have astounded people just a century ago. Technology has made it possible to reach customers in new ways and more frequently than was practical in the days of “snail mail” and printed newspapers. As a result, customers are bombarded with information via every conceivable form of media. With so many different organizations and businesses clamoring for their attention, it can be difficult to engage current and prospective customers. These tips can help you improve your communications to create messages that customers will notice and respond to.
- Get to your message quickly. If you have a point to make or need a response from the customer, say so. This is particularly important for email campaigns. Busy people are not likely to struggle through a lengthy narrative, no matter how well-written, to learn the reason for the message. They want to be able to quickly determine what benefit you are offering them and a sound reason that they should take action. Make it easy for them to respond by embedding a link, contact information or even a video they can watch for more information.
- Do not make communications difficult for the customer. If the customer has to search to find your phone number or email, many will give up the quest very quickly. Be easy to find. Include your contact information on every email, landing page and other message. Have a presence on the social media sites and include links to these sites on your website and in your communications. If possible, offer live chat on your website so customers can get answers immediately.
- Embrace text messaging. Customers have been using smartphones for online purchases, product research and browsing in numbers that have been increasing every year. Text messages are an excellent way to reach customers when you need to communicate with them immediately. For example, you might need to inform that your service tech has been delayed and will be arriving an hour late for an appointment. You might need to notify people on your waiting list that a new, highly sought-after product, has arrived. The key is to use texts wisely, sending messages to just those people you know are interested, rather than blasting indiscriminate (and potentially annoying) texts to every number you can find.
Effective communication is essential for any business, and new technology has made it easier than ever. If you would like to learn more about how to leverage the power of technology to enhance your customer communications, PhaseAlpha can help. We have the skills and experience to provide you with the assistance you need. You can reach us by email at info@phasealpha.com, or call us at 913.648.9200.