35 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}
35 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}

Offline Marketing Strategy Involving Autoresponders Merged with SMS for Insane Lead Collection!!!

by Dexx
30 replies
Hey Guys,

Wanted to bounce an idea off everyone and get the a general thought on whether this would work or not...

Okay so we know with offline (and online) marketing that the use of autoresponders is a "god send" in terms of relationship building and repeat communication from a one-time/first-time visit...

Now this works well for say...promoting an opt-in page website URL on flyers, coupons etc.

But what about billboards and other advertising that is viewed not while necessarily near a computer, but on the go...how can those leads be captured and not wasted?

So I was thinking...what about using the SMS technology that is seen all over the place now by businesses and companies...

I mean we've all seen those "text JOKE to 555667" etc. type commercials...

What about if on a billboard it said "Ruth's Steakhouse...2 Miles North...Text STEAK to 45678 and Receive 10% Off Your Meal!"

So now if this billboard is viewed by a couple who is hungry, or new to the area, they might text the number and receive a discount code to use at the restaurant...and then perhaps a follow-up text a few days to later to visit the WEBSITE and opt-in for futher coupons...

Or perhaps the business owner could just text a dinner special valid for just that night to receive an immediate business boost from a cellnumber listing of 100s of leads etc.


Would this work as an idea?


If so, my next question would be is anyone aware of a company or business that can provide such a service?

I would want to set up the SMS lead collection just like autoresponders, with each offline client getting their own "text to number." Is this possible?

Or would every business need to apply and get approved etc. (i.e. the numbers cant be managed / outsourced like autoresponder setup can be)

If so is anyone aware of a reseller company or affiliate company that would allow me to promote this idea to offline clients and make money doing it? (assuming I cant private label / brand the service under my own business and charge that way)

Thoughts!?
#autoresponders #collection #insane #involving #lead #marketing #merged #offline #sms #strategy
  • Profile picture of the author cow194234
    I wish I could add some value to your topic or even answer your question, but alas I can't. I just wanted to say how much of a good idea this sounds.

    I will definitely be stopping by this thread to find out what others think.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[853658].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Dexx
    Thanks man, ya I was just brainstorming today how we can approach the BIG OFFLINE SPENDERS that use billboards etc. and show them how they can improve their ROI...

    but I realized that trying to send people driving past a billboard to a website is pointless, as most people arent going to remember the URL or login to their browser on their phone (if possible) right then and there!

    However almost everyone now that is comfortable with text messaging would fire off a quick text if they were a qualified lead..

    Same could apply for real estate, or even night clubs! (text CLUB to 46738 for No Line / No Cover entry etc)

    Thats why I'm hoping someone knows a way to make this work!

    Anyone!?
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[853662].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author o_brient
    Dexx, you might want to get in touch with Kim Dushinski:
    http://mobilemarketingprofits.com/

    It is a 2-step process though to get people on the AR list, you could consider going direct for the email optin in the example above.

    Instead of "Text STEAK to ..."

    "Email STEAK to steak@xyz.com"

    Cheers,
    Tom
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[853681].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Dexx
    I'll check that site out, thanks!

    My only issue with trying to get ppl to email on the go is that most ppl don't have blackberries etc to send emails on the go, that...and remembering an email you saw while stopped at a red light would be harder than sending a quick text. Not to mention I'd want ppl to receive a SMS text back with the address and ph# for the business to make it easier to find...this isn't so doable with email on the go unless on blackberry, laptop, etc.

    Least I think so...could be wrong tho
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[853685].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author AndrewCavanagh
      Yes it does work and people are doing it.

      You do have to be careful about how you text people and it doesn't work for every business type.

      But it will be a huge growth area in the next few years.

      It's interesting to note that there a more cell phones (mobile phones) in the world than there are personal computers.

      Kindest regards,
      Andrew Cavanagh
      Signature
      Old School Copy Like This Is BACK & Converting Like Crazy!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[853835].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Vikuna2009+
    So Andrew, you say it works but you do not say "how". Can you please explain the "how" part to Dexx (and all the rest of us)? Thanks in advance, Eva
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854087].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Thomas
    Originally Posted by Dexx View Post

    If so, my next question would be is anyone aware of a company or business that can provide such a service?
    Google for "sms coupons". There are lots of companies.

    Tommy.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854345].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Thomas
    Here's an example for a pedestrian board (although I'm not sure if it's a photo of an actual board or a mock-up). I know it's not for a coupon, but it's the same concept.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854352].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author FlightGuy
    The big problem with SMS technology at the moment, is that a phone number is regarded as being more private than someone's email address.

    With that comes a fragile (and mostly untapped) niche in offline marketing and it's got to be approached and carried out in ways that most marketers are just not used to. You absolutely cannot spam affiliate offers and junk to people's cellphones on a daily or bi-daily basis.

    Similarly, however, a text based subscription must have an opt-in confirmation just as an email campaign would. Example: "Text STEAK to 55555 to receive 10% off your entire check tonight!" When the user does this, a response is sent asking for the owner of the phone number to type in "Y" to confirm.

    As this type of marketing progresses (which it will), it will become very profitable for everyone. You're putting compelling offers in front of qualified leads on the fly, which are checked almost instantly by almost everyone (because they carry their phones). That = profit.

    A barrier, though, is legislation. There might be a problem with promoting cell phone use to drivers on the highways/roads and there could even be existing legislature that could present a problem or two regarding advertising through SMS.

    Nonetheless, this is something I've been looking into for quite some time, but just haven't had the "oomph" to get going yet for my offline clients. I suppose I should start creating some "oomph" though, eh?

    Kindest to you,
    John Dennis
    Signature
    "If you don't design your own life plan, chances are you'll fall into someone else's plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much." - Jim Rohn
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854358].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Thomas
      As a word of warning: sms marketing took off in Europe as far back as 2000 (maybe earlier) and lead to a rash of (sometimes very draconian) legislation that prohibited all kinds of actions relating to it and much of it now features very heavy penalties for any breaches.

      I know it's not as far along in the U.S. yet, but if the European experience is anything to go by, you should expect stuff that is now freely done there to be restricted more and more, as the number of complaints about certain marketing practices begin to accumulate.

      It's just something to be aware of. That said, if you stick to a well-established reputable company that demonstrably changes it's operations to take account of any new regulations, you can't go too far wrong.

      Tommy.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854398].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
        Here's a twist I'll throw out for discussion...

        Many cell phones have cameras, right? At the top of the billboard, put a picture of a camera phone and "Bring in our picture for 10% off your meal."

        When they come in, they show the photo on their phone to get their discount. At that time, they're asked to fill out a chit with name, address, etc. along with one question...

        "Would you like to receive additional discounts and special offers by:

        Email? _________________ (address)
        Text? _________________ (number)"
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854580].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author AndrewCavanagh
      Originally Posted by FlightGuy View Post

      The big problem with SMS technology at the moment, is that a phone number is regarded as being more private than someone's email address.

      With that comes a fragile (and mostly untapped) niche in offline marketing and it's got to be approached and carried out in ways that most marketers are just not used to. You absolutely cannot spam affiliate offers and junk to people's cellphones on a daily or bi-daily basis.

      Very well put.

      Generally speaking good marketing of this kind will fall under 2 main categories:

      # 1: A text service people would seriously consider paying for that you provide free (tips for horse racing, stock trading tips etc).

      # 2: Deals that are genuinely exceptional and timely.


      There are a whole pile of other ways to use text marketing but to send regular messages it's a lot like email...you do have to provide value.

      Kindest regards,
      Andrew Cavanagh
      Signature
      Old School Copy Like This Is BACK & Converting Like Crazy!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[856146].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Thomas
    If it was me, I'd have the offer in big high-contrast writing on the top-right of a billboard (not a pedestrian board... one beside a roadway).

    The reason for big high-contrast writing is because passing motorists only have a few seconds to see everything. The reason for it being at the top is that, unless they are deliberately raised, many road-side billboards (especially older ones) are often partially obscured by vegetation at the bottom.

    Tommy.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854363].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Dexx
    Very creative idea John
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854656].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Dexx
    I think I may have found the solution/provider that I was looking for, gonna research them today:

    mFUSION :: Mobile Marketing and Advertising Solutions for Business | Mobile Fusion - txtNation
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[854930].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Preben Frenning
    I have heard Deli De Luca (At least in Norway) sends out promo via bluetooth to everyone with an active bluetooth connection within reach. I also heard they are being sued or something, for interrupting privacy.

    But I believe in an offer like this. However, the law is most likely pretty different from country to country, and state to state.

    As well as finding a good provider might be hard in some territories. But I can't see why it wouldn't be allowed if they have to confirm their cell opt-in, and if you have unsubscribe info in some of the SMS'.
    Signature

    Content overload? Too many tabs open? Then
    check out my awesome tech startup! - It will make your life easier.


    Twitter? - http://twitter.com/Preben_Frenning

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[855643].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Tsnyder
    Dexx...

    I think this is a brilliant idea. Please keep us updated if
    you find a viable source.

    As for the camera phone idea mentioned above... I don't
    think that will work nearly as well... they're on the fly... how
    do they stop or slow down long enough to take the picture?

    Tsnyder
    Signature
    If you knew what I know you'd be doing what I do...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[855674].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ~Davor Debrecin~
    Great idea Dexx. I love mobile marketing, I mean most TVs get their revenue by using mobile marketing services. The one you explained is great because it's easy to get the desired action from your prospect - they just text something and that's it.

    I also like the 'Reverse Auction' concept. The company you found has lots of great services.

    Please post your new findings.

    Take care,

    ~Davor
    Signature
    MY CV ❱❱❱ 12+ yrs exp, 7-fig revenues, 40 employees.. 39 actually, someone just left the company, f**k!
    I like to innovate stuff and babble IM stuff into a camera:
    I do this on the side, will try to sell you something, be sure of it!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[855684].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Jagged
    Hi Dexx,

    Good Thread...I've been interested in this concept myself for a while now...will be intersting to see where this all goes.

    There are Businesses using Twitter & Facebook successfully, even placing their "follow me" messages on business cards, signage, print ads, etc...

    I have set up Twitter accounts for a few of my clients recently...been using it just like a SMS text message.

    I have been using Twitter myself & have signed up new offline clients

    Good luck,
    Ken
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[855752].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Dexx
    Ooo ok I'll take a look! Thnx!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[856804].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
      Originally Posted by Tsnyder View Post

      Dexx...

      I think this is a brilliant idea. Please keep us updated if
      you find a viable source.

      As for the camera phone idea mentioned above... I don't
      think that will work nearly as well... they're on the fly... how
      do they stop or slow down long enough to take the picture?

      Tsnyder
      I'm not sure how things work where you live, but here in Florida billboards tend to be placed in two ways...

      1. They're placed so they're visible for long stretches of highway. Given the terrain, you can often see billboards for several minutes even at 70 mph.

      2. In town, they're placed where people tend to pause - traffic lights, turn lanes, etc. If you're sitting at a light, you generally have a couple of minutes or more to snap a quick photo.

      Maybe I'm dating myself, but I can snap a picture a lot faster with my phone than I can text anything, moving or not...

      You would have to choose locations with the above in mind, I will admit.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[857353].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Instructor
    Any feedback on this yet Dexx or anyone else?
    Signature
    KILLER SALES LETTERS GUARANTEED TO SELL ANYTHING FAST


    PREMIUM ONLINE BUSINESSES FOR SALE
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[887845].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Dexx
    Ya, I will be going through Mobile Marketing Campaigns and Bulk Text Messaging Software by Club Texting

    No setup fee, no monthly contract, better pricing, reseller ability, and soon a private label ability where they handle customer support and sales (should be ready late August)
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[887850].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author George Wright
    You could do a limited test by just saying text "steak" (for example) to peatsSHS@ gmail.com then have the gmail set up for "vacation" mode with a brief %off message.

    Texts do go to email when sent to them.

    George Wright
    Signature
    "The first chapter sells the book; the last chapter sells the next book." Mickey Spillane
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[889842].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ideasuniversity
    Mobile marketing is the in thing now. People have more cell phones than people with laptop and desktops.
    Signature
    [New WSO..Starting at $2] How I made $3,724.11 Under 2 Hours.

    Let me show you where to get a brand new ipad for $5
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[889972].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author RentItNow
    Yeh i researched this months ago for rentals. Was VERY expensive back then to setup and had continuing costs. I wrote an article about one company that I called that had the components to do this but didnt see a need for it. Several people had called their sales guy asking the same question that week.

    The ultimate would be to do permission based GPS couponing. Picturing walking by a McDonalds and a mobile coupon would pop up for 25% off a Big Mac. I know it is done with Blue-Tooth now but this would have many other applications. Absolutely target specific marketing. Very expensive development tho (millions).
    Signature
    I have no agenda but to help those in the same situation. This I feel will pay the bills.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[942902].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author IanTheTerrible
      Per John's post above yours, DriveBuy's solution caters to real estate & rental/pm industry. No set up, no contracts, fees are month-to-month. It really works great for rentals. I work for them. If you're interested, give me a shout 877-848-4045 (Ian).

      Oh and BTW, our short code is 88000, not 8800 (John left out a zero).
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[954150].message }}

Trending Topics