Indeed, theuse of rich SMS can help attract even more customers, while also retaining existing ones. The question now is: how exactly does using rich SMS help build customer loyalty? Here is the answer from Octopush.

What is a rich SMS?

A rich SMS is a modernized version of the classic SMS. It is much more practical because it can include a short, clickable link that redirects to a dedicated page. Inserting a short URL is a strategy that overcomes the 150-character limit imposed on standard SMS.

A rich SMS can also be enhanced with other multimedia content, allowing for better interactivity between the sender and the recipient. This multimedia can include photos, videos, files, voice messages, and more. This is known as an RCS message—another evolution of the classic SMS that allows for even closer engagement with customers and prospects.

What is the benefit of using a rich SMS?

The reason rich SMS is so popular today is primarily because it enables highly compelling calls to action.

In a business context, running campaigns with standard SMS provides a high delivery and open rate. However, the information is limited to just 150 characters. Building a persuasive argument to convince a prospect to take action with so little space is simply impossible. That is why rich SMS was created.

Indeed, a rich SMS is a message containing a link that redirects to a dedicated page. In marketing jargon, this is called a landing page—a fully customizable web page designed to convince the customer to take action, whether that is to buy, subscribe, rent, sign up, use a discount coupon, fill out a form, and much more.

And for businesses, it is this combination of rich SMS and a landing page that provides a real advantage.

How can you build customer loyalty using Rich SMS?

The 2.0 rich SMS allow you to redirect your prospects and customers to any web page of your choice. You can certainly use this capability to your advantage—not only to attract new customers, but also to build loyalty with those you already have.

At Octopush, we invite you to discover a few best practices for retaining your existing customers and ensuring they keep coming back to you.

Send a rich SMS to your customers the day after their purchase to build a connection with them

To build a strong relationship with your clientele, the day after a purchase—when the experience is still fresh in the customer's mind—is one of the best times to send a rich SMS.

For example, you could provide a link to a product tutorial, a list of products that complement their purchase, or simply share a page about your brand and your latest news. The idea here is to help your customer discover a little more about your company, allowing them to connect with your brand identity. Alternatively, you could include a link that redirects to your satisfaction survey (which could be useful for finding new marketing leads).

Share exclusive promotions whenever you have the opportunity

Furthermore, to continue building customer loyalty, you can also share links to discount coupons with your most active customers. Alternatively, consider providing access to private sales or trial offers.

By operating this way, your customers will feel valued and special for shopping with you. Naturally, they will be motivated to shop more to receive even more promotions.

Recover your abandoned carts

With rich SMS, you also have the ability to recover abandoned carts. To do this, simply send follow-up rich SMS messages to customers who abandoned their carts to encourage them to complete their order. Alternatively, include links that redirect them to more interesting similar products, or a link that allows them to get help or advice.

Thanks to rich SMS, you can significantly increase your revenue and conversion rate.

Re-engage your inactive customers

Finally, know thatwith the help of rich SMS, you also have the ability to encourage your inactive customers to make a purchase or visit your site. Has one of your loyal customers not visited your site in months? Send them a rich SMS with a promotional offer that will entice them to buy again.