Text messaging communication with your customers is a great way to maintain a dialogue that is instantly received and quickly opened. Unlike direct (to the letterbox) mail, texts go straight to the cell phone. Your message is limited to 160 characters, but there is no restriction on imagination. Being inventive with the messages you send not only gives your customers something to think about but can yield powerful results in a short space of time.
1. Time sensitive offers. Strong calls-to-action encourage readers to respond within a time frame. Many text services allow you to schedule an outbound message blast to your subscribers ahead of time. Think about the days when your restaurant is not fully exploiting its potential. How can you make better use of your staff and energy on a quiet day? By selling more product, even if this means offering a discounted incentive.
“Feels like Friday Special – Spoil yourself – free cookie with every 6” sub today only at SubTasty. Show this msg before 2pm! Exp 2pm 10/12. 888-555-1234”.
2. Viral Offers. If an offer is truly irresistible your customers will pass it on to their friends. Email links are one thing – but the effort to print, cut out and take the coupon can often prove too taxing for the busy professional, or just downright inconvenient for those who are on the road. Text coupons are simple and quick to pass on, and best of all, the forwarded text costs you absolutely nothing, nada, zilch.
If more customers are lining up to redeem their coupons than you have sent messages to, your campaign was a viral success. And you acquired new customers – priceless in modern, cut-throat markets.
“Get a free regular fresh brew coffee today at Java Joes. Make it large for $1. Show this msg before 6pm. 211 Main St. 888-555-1234. Exp 6pm 10/12. PASS IT ON!”
3. ‘Feel Good’ Messages. Answering your customers concerns at the right moment can win hearts and minds in the battle for business.
Sending timely messages about a healthy special can capture the imagination when the decision over lunch is being made. Lo-carb, low calorie or reduced fat options can help to sway the health-conscious consumer who acts on impulse.
‘This week – Zac’s Grill Lo-carb specials – Chicken Ranch/Teriyaki/Balsamic Salads 15g Net Carbs. only $4.99 – show this coupon. Exp. 10/15. 888-555-1234’
4. Bring-a-friend offers. Encourage your customers to sell for you!
They say there is no such thing as a free lunch, and they are right. But that doesn’t stop you from rewarding your customers for a little lunchtime selling. Encourage them to bring a couple of friends in exchange for a free set meal on showing their text coupon. Again you can customize your message to be valid on quiet days and encourage new people to try your wares.
‘Lunch with friends! Show this msg when you buy two set lunches and get a free regular salad. Valid Tues & Wed b4 2pm. Exp. 10/15. Phils Kitchen 888-111-2111’
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