Are you confused about what is the most effective method of reaching your customers?

Did you know that there are systems your small business can use that allow you to reach and followup with your customers on many different communication platforms all at once?

First, let’s look at some research so you can see where the numbers are at.  Then, we’ll discuss ways to reach customers across several of these channels easily and inexpensively.

Many online retailers can testify as to the often overwhelming power of promotional messages on social media sites.  Strategically placed coupons are effective, but studies suggest email remains the most effective promotional channel.

As reported by eMarketer.com, in a survey of shoppers in 4 states, nearly 4 of 10 told commerce solutions provider CrossView that they preferred to receive promotional messages from retailers by email.  The survey suggested that email was the most popular communication channel, followed by direct mail drawing about one fourth of respondents and text messaging (mobile marketing) came in 3rd for 18% of those who responded to the survey.  It appears that 9% of shoppers were interested in promotional messages on social media.

Of those surveyed, it appears  that no one said they were in a store as the result of  promotions that they found on a social  media site (Twitter, Facebook, etc.).  Mailers and in-store signs, then email, were the promotional methods most likely to attract mall shoppers into a particular store.

Mark Fodor, CEO at CrossView says, “Consumers have very definite ideas of how they want to receive promotional materials. Regardless of which technologies are ‘hot,’ shoppers expect to navigate between channels based on convenience and personal preference.”

Also reported by eMarketer, CrossView results seem to make sense when compared along side other research on general consumer communication preferences.  ExactTarget reports that more than 90% of adult internet users in each age group subscribed to emails from brands, while fewer were “fans” of companies on Facebook or followed those brands on Twitter.

Data from e-Dialog and Lightspeed Research also showed that in-store purchases seem to be the result of marketing emails. Also, among those who are social followers, showing public support for a brand can be a major consideration.

So, what does all this data mean for the average small business?

Obviously, businesses need to engage their customers on social media sites and include a call to action to subscribe to the company newsletter or other email campaign.

In this way, the largest number possible can be reached to opt-in to a strategic email followup and print campaign.  Don’t forget, this is also a good time to get a cell phone or mobile number from those same prospects.

Make these two words the most important concepts in your company:

• Engage
• Followup

Technology does exist today that will allow you to include a form on your Facebook page, and also your website, that encourages your visitors to give you their email address as well as their mobile phone number.

If your offer in exchange for their information is well thought out, then they will also leave you their mailing address.  Tip:  This can be as simple as offering them a short report about 10 tips how to get the best deals in your industry.  You’re the expert; they will listen.

Now, all that is left to do is to automatically follow up with email, text messages, and physical mail or postcards.  Sound like a big chore?  Actually it is easy to achieve and is very cost effective.

There are systems that can do all this for you on auto-pilot.  In fact, you’re probably reading this useful information today as the result of such a system.

User Worthy Media would like to help your business apply this same system to get more customers into your business.

Give us a call at:  325-261-0950 so we can help you grow your business and establish you as the expert in your industry.