sms text messaging to small businesses? Does it work?

338 replies
Hi there im wondering if anyone is helping small businesses like restaurants and more to setup sms marketing in their businesses? Are you charging them a monthly fee to do so? Has the restaurant gotten alot of sales from it? Jus trying to see how things are going compared to our market here in Canada

Thanks
#businesses #messaging #small #sms #text #work
  • Profile picture of the author Steve Solem
    I'm not currently offering this service myself, but from case studies I've read and being on the receiving end of some mobile campaigns I don't think there's any question SMS marketing can work quite well for local businesses, and you could make some nice money offering to help local businesses with their SMS marketing.

    Take a look in the WSO forum and you'll find at least a few WSOs about this, and if you search for SMS providers online you'll find some good case studies and customer testimonials.

    Cheers,

    Steve
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    • Profile picture of the author GeorgeO7
      I did a WP site and installed an SMS plugin for a client that owns a bar. He markets it as a VIP Club... enter your digits... your provider and you've joined the club.

      In the WP Admin he can blast his list with a 140 character message. This works great to offer various promos for events... show the text and get pay no cover for a band or half off drinks or to just to drive traffic on slow evenings.

      He currently has about 300 people enrolled and has told me numerous times how effective it is.
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      • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
        Originally Posted by GeorgeO7 View Post

        I did a WP site and installed an SMS plugin for a client that owns a bar. He markets it as a VIP Club... enter your digits... your provider and you've joined the club.
        Interesting. Can be more cost effective than SMS keywords, though with the latter you can reach pretty much all cell phone users, not only the ones with internet access.

        I wonder not about the effectiveness of the SMS campaigns as I'm sure they are powerful, but of how to charge, and what work to do, can we get white label possibilities from a SMS provider, etc.
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        • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
          I am just wondering if anyone has been charging monthly to let companies use their sms platform as well as if the restaurants or other places of business has seen positive ROI from getting their clients to sign up to their txt list and sending out 1-2 offers a week.
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          • Profile picture of the author james96
            SMS marketing works like charm if done properly.
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        • Profile picture of the author thehypnoguy
          Originally Posted by Jay Rhome View Post

          Interesting. Can be more cost effective than SMS keywords, though with the latter you can reach pretty much all cell phone users, not only the ones with internet access.

          I wonder not about the effectiveness of the SMS campaigns as I'm sure they are powerful, but of how to charge, and what work to do, can we get white label possibilities from a SMS provider, etc.
          Can cost you your SMS Texting business. When you ask for their phone number and carrier it is because the system is going to send SMTP email messages to the phone. This is not SMS Texting and is frowned upon by the carriers. They see it as SPAM. They will block you and suddenly you find your campaigns stop working. Better to use Offlineman's Thundertexting and avoid that altogether.

          Martin
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      • Profile picture of the author gigim17
        @ George07--Good to know-as I soon will be going to restaurants to do mobile marketing. Can you tell us what kind if pricing you use? What text service do you use? What do you say to clients to get their business? Would you have any sample contracts, proposals etc. to use--this is one thing that is holding me up. Any other tips or ideas you could give would be appreciated. Also, do you do the text campaigns for them-or do they do it themselves-are you using a white label-how many texts go out a week? Sorry about all the questions
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      • Profile picture of the author msgpals
        I really believe sms marketing will be taking off very soon if not already!!!!!
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        • Profile picture of the author myob
          Originally Posted by msgpals View Post

          I really believe sms marketing will be taking off very soon if not already!!!!!
          I've been selling SMS texting services for over 4 years. So yeah, it's a hot market right now!
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      • Profile picture of the author Jack Zenert
        Originally Posted by GeorgeO7 View Post

        I did a WP site and installed an SMS plugin for a client that owns a bar. He markets it as a VIP Club... enter your digits... your provider and you've joined the club.

        In the WP Admin he can blast his list with a 140 character message. This works great to offer various promos for events... show the text and get pay no cover for a band or half off drinks or to just to drive traffic on slow evenings.

        He currently has about 300 people enrolled and has told me numerous times how effective it is.
        Which WP plugin did you use?
        were the phone numbers entered by hand or ??
        Thanks
        Jack
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        • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
          Originally Posted by zedbiz View Post

          Which WP plugin did you use?
          were the phone numbers entered by hand or ??
          Thanks
          Jack
          He probably used EasySMS plugin...? People have to enter their numbers through the form on your WP blog.


          Thomas
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          • Profile picture of the author xichabodx
            This is the WP Plugin I'm using on my mobile text coupon site:

            WordPress › SMS Text Message « WordPress Plugins

            As George07 stated, it works great and is a nice free alternative.
            If you're low on funds at the moment, just create a WP site for each of your clients and install this plugin. In the admin area, it shows the actual phone # to each person that opted in.

            Hope this helps.
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      • Profile picture of the author Tuddy
        Whats the wp mobile plugin that you used? I would like to start with this marketing method
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        Offline marketing SMS text marketing

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      • Profile picture of the author Tuddy
        Originally Posted by GeorgeO7 View Post

        I did a WP site and installed an SMS plugin for a client that owns a bar. He markets it as a VIP Club... enter your digits... your provider and you've joined the club.

        In the WP Admin he can blast his list with a 140 character message. This works great to offer various promos for events... show the text and get pay no cover for a band or half off drinks or to just to drive traffic on slow evenings.

        He currently has about 300 people enrolled and has told me numerous times how effective it is.
        I'm looking for a plugin like this as it is the way I would like to go with my customers... Could you direct me to this plugin?
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        Offline marketing SMS text marketing

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        • Profile picture of the author zbw777
          Originally Posted by Tuddy View Post

          I'm looking for a plugin like this as it is the way I would like to go with my customers... Could you direct me to this plugin?

          While this might be a quick way to get started, I would investigate a little further whether this is going through at SMS gateway or if its SMTP.

          A quick search on wordpress shows a few SMS options.

          WordPress › Search for sms « WordPress Plugins

          Some are SMTP some are Gateway.

          I haven't tried any of these, but will investigate further for my own knowledge
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  • Profile picture of the author John Durham
    I misread the meaning of the title... I was gonna say "I dont know, text 100 of them and see what happens"!
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  • Profile picture of the author adfy
    I like this idea and want to offer mobile marketing (SMS) service to my clients. Can anyone know a good provider for sales agent or white label?

    Thank you so much.
    FC
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    • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
      I guess not to many are offering this service... too bad I hear it works like gangbusters for business owners...
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      • Profile picture of the author srizer
        Hi

        Its totally depend on the hows the local market there, and I think sms marketning is only useful for local clients
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        • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
          I built an SMS marketing service for small businesses. I sold it to a few businesses for $50/month in the beginning and are now up to $100/month. We are still working on some changes before launching big and hopefully will grow pretty fast and at $150/month.

          I was working for Chick-fil-a for awhile after they started using my service. I sent out a message for buy one get one free milkshake and 2 minutes later someone walked in with the message. Man that was fast.

          There is a difference between SMS and SMTP so be careful there.

          If you are in USA, I can probably help you get going with SMS marketing in the near future with charging only for each business you sell to, or I may be able to build you your own system if you don't mind a bigger initial cost.
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          • Profile picture of the author gigim17
            @SolidSolutions--When you say you started by charging them $50, then $100, then $150-what exactly do you mean? Are you doing the same thing-just that you were charging too little at the beginning? Not sure what you meant.
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            • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
              Originally Posted by gigim17 View Post

              @SolidSolutions--When you say you started by charging them $50, then $100, then $150-what exactly do you mean? Are you doing the same thing-just that you were charging too little at the beginning? Not sure what you meant.
              When I first started, I had NO clients. But, I had a guy a sorta knew who owned the local franchise of a big name restaurant that I was hoping to get. So, I pitched it to him for $50/month so he would be willing to give it a go. Then I would at least have one business onboard so the next person I went to would not be: "hey, I got a great business no one is using, but you can be first".

              Anyway, so I got a few more on at $50/month than started charging new clients $100/month, and will no bring on new ones at $150/month. The $50/month initial clients will be going up to $75/month.

              Hope that helps!
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          • Profile picture of the author xichabodx
            Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

            I built an SMS marketing service for small businesses. I sold it to a few businesses for $50/month in the beginning and are now up to $100/month. We are still working on some changes before launching big and hopefully will grow pretty fast and at $150/month.

            I was working for Chick-fil-a for awhile after they started using my service. I sent out a message for buy one get one free milkshake and 2 minutes later someone walked in with the message. Man that was fast.

            There is a difference between SMS and SMTP so be careful there.

            If you are in USA, I can probably help you get going with SMS marketing in the near future with charging only for each business you sell to, or I may be able to build you your own system if you don't mind a bigger initial cost.
            Awesome stuff!
            I'm doing the same in my local areas. The biggest hang-up was figuring out what to charge. I've mulled over between $60-97/month. I've created a directory (something like yours) to offer advertising of their text coupons.
            I've also since added QR codes, to cater to the smart phone users.

            How did you sign up your first few businesses when you first started out?

            Thanks for any insight!
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            • Profile picture of the author ewenmack
              I was speaking to a realtor this morning about using video, and he straight away wanted to know if it would work in sending SMS's.

              The answer is yes.

              The thing is, the effectiveness [in this case] will be determined by how many of his prospects are internet enabled on their mobile device.

              He sends out messages notifying open home times allready.

              With my video he can now have open homes in your hand!

              Best,
              Ewen
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          • Profile picture of the author thattori
            Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

            If you are in USA, I can probably help you get going with SMS marketing in the near future with charging only for each business you sell to, or I may be able to build you your own system if you don't mind a bigger initial cost.
            @Solid Solution:
            I would like the chance to be in contact with you at your convenience, I can't pm you due to my post...if you won't mine pm me your contact or email me at: th1959th (at) gmail (dot) com
            looking forward to connect with you.
            Thanks
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            • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
              I'm not trying to promote my stuff (yet), but I'm currently almost finished creating a product that I'm going to be offering to others. I'll probably create a WSO out of it and offer a couple months for free. Basically, you get unlimited keywords and businesses/campaigns and such for one low (lower than any other place i've seen) monthly price. It's going to utilize long codes instead of short codes, but that actually works better for small businesses, it feels more personal to the customer. Like I said, it's not done yet, but it will be very very shortly. If anyone is interested in anything more please feel free to PM me.

              I'm creating it because I couldn't find a simple, easy solution for SMS Marketing targeting local businesses. After I created it I decided to scale it up so I can offer this convenience to others.
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          • Profile picture of the author Tim Dini
            Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

            ...I can probably help you get going with SMS marketing in the near future with charging only for each business you sell to, or I may be able to build you your own system if you don't mind a bigger initial cost.
            I visited your IBuyFrom website. Very interesting and clever concept. Am I right in thinking that you offer new clients a chance to utilize your IBuyFrom website as a backlink and sales promotion tool?
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            • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
              Originally Posted by Tim Dini View Post

              I visited your IBuyFrom website. Very interesting and clever concept. Am I right in thinking that you offer new clients a chance to utilize your IBuyFrom website as a backlink and sales promotion tool?
              Yes, I think so, if I understand correctly what you mean by backlink and sales promotion tool
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        • Profile picture of the author Nick30
          agreed, local is the only thing that would work. otherwise it comes across in a wrong fashion.
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      • Profile picture of the author JustinDupre
        Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

        I guess not to many are offering this service... too bad I hear it works like gangbusters for business owners...

        Yeah I heard from a few restaurant that SMS service does pretty well for them too. The owner was telling me how he exchange business card and got customers number/email that were interested in hearing restaurnat promotion weekly. Worked very well with some promotion code in SMS and such
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    • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
      Originally Posted by adfy View Post

      I like this idea and want to offer mobile marketing (SMS) service to my clients. Can anyone know a good provider for sales agent or white label?

      Thank you so much.
      FC
      There are a lot of providers, but I too am looking for a white label one. Otherwise, it's definitely NOT an hands free process.
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    • Profile picture of the author mobilebusinessads
      Originally Posted by adfy View Post

      I like this idea and want to offer mobile marketing (SMS) service to my clients. Can anyone know a good provider for sales agent or white label?

      Thank you so much.
      FC
      My platform would allow you to market to your clients and obtain new clients.
      Auto Responder, Blasts, Mobile Coupons, Virtual Business Cards, Mobile Websites w/QR Codes. Mobile Business Ads is the name of my company. MobileBusinessAds dot com.

      -Gary
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    • Profile picture of the author johnlaurwarrior
      Check out Jifftext.com. There is lots of flexibility regarding a joint venture or commission selling.
      One unique aspect is that clients are not charged for messages. They can send 10 a day or 10,000. There is only one upfront cost that is very reasonable ... and negotiable if circumstances warrant it.
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  • Profile picture of the author hotseochick
    This is something I have wanted to try, but haven't yet. I need a client to test it out on...any takers? haha
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  • Profile picture of the author HorseStall
    A lot of businesses are using SMS not just for marketing but as another communication channel. For example school cancellations are often now texted to all subscribers. In Boston train delays are sent to subscribers via SMS. It can be very useful and helpful.

    As a small business you build an SMS/texting subscriber base just as you would an email list, and you can use software like NotePage's Paging Software and Messaging Download Solutions to send group messages, preprogrammed messages or scheduled messages out to the subscribers.
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    • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
      Originally Posted by HorseStall View Post

      As a small business you build an SMS/texting subscriber base just as you would an email list, and you can use software like NotePage's Paging Software and Messaging Download Solutions to send group messages, preprogrammed messages or scheduled messages out to the subscribers.
      This software would take place of paid SMS texting services? I didn't quite get what it does exactly from their website.
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  • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
    I have been going into businesses, doing a presentation on how sms is really powerful and then letting them do a free trial to build a list for a month. The idea is to get them HOOKED and then charge them 197$ to 297$ a month to manage the campaign... this ads thousands of dollars in sales for a restaurant... imagine sending a text message to 1000 people knowing 950 will read it in the next 15 minutes... powerful....
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    • Profile picture of the author ADukes81
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      I have been going into businesses, doing a presentation on how sms is really powerful and then letting them do a free trial to build a list for a month. The idea is to get them HOOKED and then charge them 197$ to 297$ a month to manage the campaign... this ads thousands of dollars in sales for a restaurant... imagine sending a text message to 1000 people knowing 950 will read it in the next 15 minutes... powerful....
      I really like this idea. One that I thought I might give it a try because I would be willing to bet that 9/10 would sign up, if not all 10.

      What service are you using for this?
      You limit them to a certain number of texts/month?
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      • Profile picture of the author Shane F
        We have several agency's that use our SMS platform. They have a much higher success and retention rate then a small business owner managing the campaign themselves.

        The main issue is the business owner has to take action to build their list. It isn't the same as having someone create a piece or direct mail or a Place listing. Getting over the hurdle of the first 30 days building that list is huge.

        It's true most won't turn down the 30 day free trail but converting them is huge. If we can get someone out of the gate the first 7 days and integrate the call to action on their website, social media, print and most importantly in-store, then we see almost a 100% conversion. If they wait a couple weeks to get something set up with promotion, they don't have time to build a list and test the redemption rates with one or two text blasts.

        If you decide to promote SMS to your clients, also help with integration and you will be successful. Just signing a client up for a free trial and walking out the door, you'll be disappointed with the results.

        Thanks, Shane
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        • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
          Originally Posted by Upstate Cowboy View Post

          We have several agency's that use our SMS platform. They have a much higher success and retention rate then a small business owner managing the campaign themselves.

          The main issue is the business owner has to take action to build their list. It isn't the same as having someone create a piece or direct mail or a Place listing. Getting over the hurdle of the first 30 days building that list is huge.

          It's true most won't turn down the 30 day free trail but converting them is huge. If we can get someone out of the gate the first 7 days and integrate the call to action on their website, social media, print and most importantly in-store, then we see almost a 100% conversion. If they wait a couple weeks to get something set up with promotion, they don't have time to build a list and test the redemption rates with one or two text blasts.

          If you decide to promote SMS to your clients, also help with integration and you will be successful. Just signing a client up for a free trial and walking out the door, you'll be disappointed with the results.

          Thanks, Shane

          Your absolutely right! that's why we build the campaign for them so they are up and running within a day. We print them postcard type cards and make a deal for their clients.. example... text message the word Lonestar to 889 778 7878 to get your free coupon code for a free dessert and get over 300$ worth a year in free food and discounts.

          Then once they start building their database and seeing results we coach them through it...
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          • Profile picture of the author Shane F
            Your absolutely right! that's why we build the campaign for them so they are up and running within a day. We print them postcard type cards and make a deal for their clients.. example... text message the word Lonestar to 889 778 7878 to get your free coupon code for a free dessert and get over 300$ worth a year in free food and discounts.
            Are you using Twillio for the long code? We use them for our customers in Alaska and a few others that want the same keyword but different codes to text too. Also have our own 5 digit SMS number.
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            • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
              Nope I am in canada and we use thundertexting
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              • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
                Great tips here guys. Doing a "keyword + SMS" campaign for oneself is not that hard, but I admit I'm confused on how to do for oher businesses without doing everything for them, which could be very time consuming.

                Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

                Nope I am in canada and we use thundertexting
                That's the system you created? Or that's what use on top of your own software?
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                • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
                  Originally Posted by Jay Rhome View Post

                  Great tips here guys. Doing a "keyword + SMS" campaign for oneself is not that hard, but I admit I'm confused on how to do for oher businesses without doing everything for them, which could be very time consuming.


                  That's the system you created? Or that's what use on top of your own software?

                  Yes thats the system I use on top of my system your right
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                  • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
                    Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

                    Yes thats the system I use on top of my system your right
                    What's the main benefit of using your own software + Thundertexting, compared to (as an example) using Clubtexting - which is also 2.5cents a message, etc.
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                    • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
                      Originally Posted by Jay Rhome View Post

                      What's the main benefit of using your own software + Thundertexting, compared to (as an example) using Clubtexting - which is also 2.5cents a message, etc.
                      Well its just we have all the control and we have made it dead simple for businesses to use...
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                      • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
                        Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post



                        Well its just we have all the control and we have made it dead simple for businesses to use...
                        You have set your own system so other businesses use yours? I see.
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                • Profile picture of the author msgpals
                  Originally Posted by Jay Rhome View Post

                  Great tips here guys. Doing a "keyword + SMS" campaign for oneself is not that hard, but I admit I'm confused on how to do for oher businesses without doing everything for them, which could be very time consuming.


                  That's the system you created? Or that's what use on top of your own software?
                  Have you tried dktext.com it allows your clients to manage their own stuff under a white label
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                  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
                    Originally Posted by msgpals View Post

                    Have you tried dktext.com it allows your clients to manage their own stuff under a white label
                    It's still based on user initiation and has a monthly tag and has its limitations.

                    I prefer not to use keyword based systems so have made my own system and there is nothing can compare to it on the market
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                    • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
                      Originally Posted by proapc View Post

                      It's still based on user initiation and has a monthly tag and has its limitations.

                      I prefer not to use keyword based systems so have made my own system and there is nothing can compare to it on the market
                      Is your system SMTP based? In other words, it basically sends an email message to the phone?
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                      • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
                        Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

                        Is your system SMTP based? In other words, it basically sends an email message to the phone?
                        You're absolutely right....but it sure beats all these 90201 systems hands down for local marketing stuff. Download the free report in my SIG.
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              • Profile picture of the author manxman
                Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

                Nope I am in canada and we use thundertexting
                Thank you; visited their site and sounds like a great way to get going; how long have you been with them? any advice of things to be careful of when new?
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                • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
                  Originally Posted by manxman View Post

                  Thank you; visited their site and sounds like a great way to get going; how long have you been with them? any advice of things to be careful of when new?
                  We are in the mists of changing providers these guys have really sucked lately and we need something more reliable... will keep you updated
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              • Profile picture of the author rickstopfive
                Did you program your own API or recode an other program to work with thundertexting? Like you I am in Canada and most are US based. I have found a couple to work here but cost is much higher than thundertexting per text., any help is very appreciated. Rick

                Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

                Nope I am in canada and we use thundertexting
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        • Profile picture of the author Izesta
          Originally Posted by Shane F View Post

          We have several agency's that use our SMS platform. They have a much higher success and retention rate then a small business owner managing the campaign themselves.

          The main issue is the business owner has to take action to build their list. It isn't the same as having someone create a piece or direct mail or a Place listing. Getting over the hurdle of the first 30 days building that list is huge.

          It's true most won't turn down the 30 day free trail but converting them is huge. If we can get someone out of the gate the first 7 days and integrate the call to action on their website, social media, print and most importantly in-store, then we see almost a 100% conversion. If they wait a couple weeks to get something set up with promotion, they don't have time to build a list and test the redemption rates with one or two text blasts.

          If you decide to promote SMS to your clients, also help with integration and you will be successful. Just signing a client up for a free trial and walking out the door, you'll be disappointed with the results.

          Thanks, Shane

          Good point Shane. If the biz owner never stops to take the time to do it, it won't work and then they cancel.
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        • Profile picture of the author steve solo
          Originally Posted by Shane F View Post

          We have several agency's that use our SMS platform. They have a much higher success and retention rate then a small business owner managing the campaign themselves.

          The main issue is the business owner has to take action to build their list. It isn't the same as having someone create a piece or direct mail or a Place listing. Getting over the hurdle of the first 30 days building that list is huge.

          It's true most won't turn down the 30 day free trail but converting them is huge. If we can get someone out of the gate the first 7 days and integrate the call to action on their website, social media, print and most importantly in-store, then we see almost a 100% conversion. If they wait a couple weeks to get something set up with promotion, they don't have time to build a list and test the redemption rates with one or two text blasts.

          If you decide to promote SMS to your clients, also help with integration and you will be successful. Just signing a client up for a free trial and walking out the door, you'll be disappointed with the results.

          Thanks, Shane

          hi all, you see thats where the fun part starts,..we have about 600k opt in phone numbers daily,..so if the business owners dont have their own phone list, we offer them an option to use our list of phone numbers, but the monthly fees, will double up,..theres always a solution for every problem,..lol
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    • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      I have been going into businesses, doing a presentation on how sms is really powerful and then letting them do a free trial to build a list for a month. The idea is to get them HOOKED and then charge them 197$ to 297$ a month to manage the campaign... this ads thousands of dollars in sales for a restaurant... imagine sending a text message to 1000 people knowing 950 will read it in the next 15 minutes... powerful....
      Nice! I hadn't thought of that.

      What method do YOU use to set this up? What's the cost to you?

      Thanks
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      • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
        Originally Posted by Jay Rhome View Post

        Nice! I hadn't thought of that.

        What method do YOU use to set this up? What's the cost to you?

        Thanks

        Me and my programmer have built a sms texting platform for restaurants... so we have our own system doing the text messaging, all it costs me is 2.5 cents a text message outgoing. So it cost like 20-30 bucks...
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  • Profile picture of the author scotth
    Here is a link to Adam Horwitz new text messaging training you have to opt-in...they got some great info and free training on text messaging to local businesses...This is a huge business and with the fact how these Groupon type sites are ripping off business owners IMHO...Text messaging will give the business their own list not have to cough up 30-50% to these flash-sale-sites.

    More powerful than email marketing...Test messaging is INSTANT mobile user look at their text messages right away....I know I do!

    Imagine a restaurant owner has a list of 1000 mobile numbers of past customers on Tuesday around 4pm send a text message to their mobile list offering a discount for Tuesday Night dinner...boom 995 people look at their message INSTANTLY..I am sure a % will come to dinner...and the business owner did not cough up 30-50% to Groupon types!



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    • Profile picture of the author telsave
      I agree that GROUPON is quite an expensive marketing system however have you missed a point, sending a txt message to a database collected by say a restaurant owner may be cheaper but doesn't GROUPON reach out to a wider based audience thus having the opportunity of introducing NEW clients to the restaurant etc? I do not work for GROUPON this is merely an observation.

      cheers
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      • Profile picture of the author Steven Carl Kelly
        Originally Posted by telsave View Post

        I agree that GROUPON is quite an expensive marketing system however have you missed a point, sending a txt message to a database collected by say a restaurant owner may be cheaper but doesn't GROUPON reach out to a wider based audience thus having the opportunity of introducing NEW clients to the restaurant etc? I do not work for GROUPON this is merely an observation.
        Just thought I'd add this: we've developed a sales pitch that is, in a nutshell, "Dude, Groupon is OLD AND BUSTED, SMS texting is the NEW HAWTNESS".

        We explain it to biz owners this way: with Groupon or e-mail marketing, the business owner is at the mercy of someone having to GO TO THEIR COMPUTER to read an e-mail or view a Groupon offer. Not only that, but with Groupon they have to wait for their offer to come up in the queue (we find that most of the businesses we contact have already been contacted by Groupon, anyhow). We pull our our cellphones and say: "But NOBODY goes ANYWHERE today without THIS in their pocket..." and then the light goes on for the biz owner.

        Suddenly, Groupon or online coupons or e-mail marketing are now simply afterthoughts for them -- they INSTANTLY see the power of SMS instant marketing.
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      • Profile picture of the author Izesta
        Originally Posted by telsave View Post

        I agree that GROUPON is quite an expensive marketing system however have you missed a point, sending a txt message to a database collected by say a restaurant owner may be cheaper but doesn't GROUPON reach out to a wider based audience thus having the opportunity of introducing NEW clients to the restaurant etc? I do not work for GROUPON this is merely an observation.

        cheers

        Groupon absolutely reaches a larger audience, but so does the yellow pages.

        If dollars are matched up, I would still think text message marketing would have a lower cost per customer.

        Also, Groupon attracts a lot of deal-seekers who may never come back to the business again w/o another perk to buy. Not necessarily so with text marketing.
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  • Profile picture of the author adfy
    Scotth, great business and thank you for sharing.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Annuar
    Would be a good technique I'd say. Like telling subscribers: "tonight you'll eat blahblah" or "enjoy our special offer on Thursday"...
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  • Profile picture of the author ViperSilver
    there are some companies online that already offer this sort of service - cheap as well. Hard to compete.
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    • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
      Originally Posted by ViperSilver View Post

      there are some companies online that already offer this sort of service - cheap as well. Hard to compete.

      Have you ever talked to an offline business owner they dont have the time nor the knowledge to get this type of stuff done
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    • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
      Originally Posted by ViperSilver View Post

      there are some companies online that already offer this sort of service - cheap as well. Hard to compete.
      Really? Please share one of them. Thanks.
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      • Profile picture of the author Shane F
        It's true its tough to compete online for SMS with almost 400 full SMS companies out there not to mention all the SMTP providers.

        But offline the market is wide open. We go in NYC and restaurant owners have only "heard" about text message marketing but never been approached before. I just did two restaurant trade shows the past two weeks and again talked to no business owner that has ever been approached in their business about this.

        I would assume in most markets this would be the same. From my experience most of these companies do not have salespeople on the street and not much of a sales team in general other than their website.

        ~Shane
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        • Profile picture of the author adfy
          Originally Posted by Upstate Cowboy View Post

          It's true its tough to compete online for SMS with almost 400 full SMS companies out there not to mention all the SMTP providers.

          But offline the market is wide open. We go in NYC and restaurant owners have only "heard" about text message marketing but never been approached before. I just did two restaurant trade shows the past two weeks and again talked to no business owner that has ever been approached in their business about this.

          I would assume in most markets this would be the same. From my experience most of these companies do not have salespeople on the street and not much of a sales team in general other than their website.

          ~Shane
          I think SMS prices are too cheap to support offline selling. Once you educate local business about text message marketing, they may just google and find cheap online sms marketing providers.

          I am thinking about offering sms marketing to local business but concern about what I should charge my clients. I won't be able to compete with online sms providers if I charge my clients reasonable rates to support offline selling.

          I believe that is why online sms providers do not have salespeople on street, so most local businesses have no idea about text message marketing.
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          • Profile picture of the author edakehurst
            Originally Posted by adfy View Post

            I think SMS prices are too cheap to support offline selling. Once you educate local business about text message marketing, they may just google and find cheap online sms marketing providers.

            I am thinking about offering sms marketing to local business but concern about what I should charge my clients. I won't be able to compete with online sms providers if I charge my clients reasonable rates to support offline selling.

            I believe that is why online sms providers do not have salespeople on street, so most local businesses have no idea about text message marketing.
            I have done off-line business sales for years and here's my experience regarding this: most businesses are willing to pay a hundred dollars a month or more just for having someone local that they can pick up a call and get actual human customer service. When doing off-line, you must sell yourself not your product. Sure, the product is important but nowhere near as important as selling yourself. That is always the key in any off-line marketing to a business.
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            • Profile picture of the author clubrrr
              oh, I loved what u said and really took it to heart. I think it is a bit scary to start, but I can see clearly now. Thanks!!
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          • Profile picture of the author sandalwood
            Originally Posted by adfy View Post

            I think SMS prices are too cheap to support offline selling. Once you educate local business about text message marketing, they may just google and find cheap online sms marketing providers.

            I am thinking about offering sms marketing to local business but concern about what I should charge my clients. I won't be able to compete with online sms providers if I charge my clients reasonable rates to support offline selling.

            I believe that is why online sms providers do not have salespeople on street, so most local businesses have no idea about text message marketing.
            It is my humble opinion $100 per month is a fair price for SMS services for small businesses. I also think a good many businesses have heard about text messaging, at least in my experience here locally they have, but don't know how to get started. If you can show them and keep everything professional, you shuold be able to pick up $100 a month for a long time.

            If you PM me, I will send you my website. I use the 3 minute video on the site as my sales tool as it answers most of their questions. If they have more questions, I simply answer them and ask for the check.

            Just my 2¢...
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            • Profile picture of the author Grampy
              Hi Sandalwood....if you dont mind i would love to see the video you are using as a sales tool.

              Grampy
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            • Profile picture of the author thattori
              Originally Posted by sandalwood View Post

              It is my humble opinion $100 per month is a fair price for SMS services for small businesses. I also think a good many businesses have heard about text messaging, at least in my experience here locally they have, but don't know how to get started. If you can show them and keep everything professional, you shuold be able to pick up $100 a month for a long time.

              If you PM me, I will send you my website. I use the 3 minute video on the site as my sales tool as it answers most of their questions. If they have more questions, I simply answer them and ask for the check.

              Just my 2¢...
              sorry cant pm you yet but I would love to get your website. Please forward to th1959th (at) gmail (dot) com

              Thank you
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            • Profile picture of the author frontrunner1
              [QUOTE=sandalwood;3575315]If you PM me, I will send you my website. I use the 3 minute video on the site as my sales tool as it answers most of their questions. If they have more questions, I simply answer them and ask for the check.QUOTE]

              Don't have enough posts to PM anyone ... would appreciate the link to your site ... rick at frontrunner-enterprises dot com ... THANKS !!!
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            • Profile picture of the author TinainLosAngeles
              Banned
              Hello Can you show me how to do this Sms Business I need the money?
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              • Profile picture of the author mobilebusinessads
                L.A. is a great market Tina! I can see about helping you get into SMS Text Marketing. My company is Mobile Business Ads. Many features and very user-friendly platform.

                Gary
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          • Profile picture of the author thehypnoguy
            Originally Posted by adfy View Post

            I think SMS prices are too cheap to support offline selling. Once you educate local business about text message marketing, they may just google and find cheap online sms marketing providers.

            I am thinking about offering sms marketing to local business but concern about what I should charge my clients. I won't be able to compete with online sms providers if I charge my clients reasonable rates to support offline selling.

            I believe that is why online sms providers do not have salespeople on street, so most local businesses have no idea about text message marketing.
            I think you are missing the point altogether. SMS Text Services and QR Codes are low end products to get your foot in the door. From here you can promote mobile websites, seo, website creation and redos, Video and article marketing, etc. Business owners don't have the time to learn how to do this all on their own which is what the cheap systems out there do. They are left to figure it out on their own.

            Want to make money with the SMS Texting, provide marketing video training, take them step by step with videos so they can easily succeed. Train them on video marketing, Facebook Fan Pages, email marketing and so on. Make yourself a commodity they can't do without, thereby setting yourself apart from your competition. Of course this means you don't run on the back of someone else's system like those 4,000 online presences are doing. If you really check you will find they have no clients anyways so what competition are they.

            Make your own platform and you will then own your customers and you can laugh at the competition. They build the list but its on your system so they will always need you to manage their list. Nothing says that you have to have an option to download their list. It is on your system that they have to use to access it

            Martin
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            • Profile picture of the author littleangle
              Make your own platform and you will then own your customers and you can laugh at the competition. They build the list but its on your system so they will always need you to manage their list. Nothing says that you have to have an option to download their list. It is on your system that they have to use to access it "
              Martin...Hypnoguy.....I have read your posts re this sms stuff in a few threads....but you just tease us!! We know the WHY but please share the HOW, create a wso, whatever, spill your guts MAN ! Don't make me pm you (cuz now i can) HA!! Seriously, speak up
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  • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
    Also, combine the SMS service with QR codes, tracking, a mobile page or complete site, and as mentioned by edakehurst, your personal, human, reachable, customer service, and you can charge $197+ per month. I know I will.

    Most people "offline" are not like most of us IMers, always looking for the cheapest, DIY solution. They'd rather have someone handle it if it makes them money and saves them TIME.
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    • Profile picture of the author iSoftware
      Guys,
      Anyone care to comment on the advantages/disadvantages of short codes vs. long codes?

      Tx!

      Also, if someone is not on a smart phoe and you reply back with a url, what are response rates like (on the smart phone they can click on the link, right?)
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      • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
        Shortcodes are just easier to remember... but cost more... I have a 7 digit regular phone number for the deals I do with restaurants and it works fine... or they can scan a qr code...

        Signed up two more restaurants today... sms is great
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  • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
    Signed a university pub today wow the potential with SMS Texting is amazing
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    • Profile picture of the author xichabodx
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      Shortcodes are just easier to remember... but cost more... I have a 7 digit regular phone number for the deals I do with restaurants and it works fine... or they can scan a qr code...

      Signed up two more restaurants today... sms is great
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      Signed a university pub today wow the potential with SMS Texting is amazing
      Awesome!

      How are you approaching and selling the idea to these businesses?
      Also, what type of platform are you using and how much are you charging?

      Thanks.
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      • Profile picture of the author duffied1
        Here is a platfrom you can use and receive 20% off. You can base your price from what they charge you!

        yeptext.com promo code 072860
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    • Profile picture of the author DerFreshmaker
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      Signed a university pub today wow the potential with SMS Texting is amazing
      Are you having clients sign up for their own accounts at Twilio, etc? Or, do you have them just pay you and include a fixed number of texts? For example:

      1000 texts/month: $100
      2000 texts/month: $125
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      • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
        Its a little more than that... I charge about 0.80cents a member in the texting database so 500 members 400$
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        • Profile picture of the author ADukes81
          Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

          Its a little more than that... I charge about 0.80cents a member in the texting database so 500 members 400$
          What platform are you using?
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        • Profile picture of the author MarthaD.
          Just posted these questions on another thread but thought I'd repeat them here -
          I'm still not real clear on handling or managing your clients acct.

          Can someone please elaborate on this a bit - if they decide to send out the messages themselves, how or what is it you are providing them? If you are handling it for them, do you receive the responses from customers and forward them to the client or just have them receive their responses directly? And what about tracking responses?

          Hope this isn't too confusing or basic but I just can't seem to get a clear understanding of this process and would appreciate it if someone could explain this in detail or step-by-step way.

          Sorry, but I guess I'm a bit dense but want to be sure I'm explaining and understanding it enough when talking to a prospect.
          Thanks in advance!
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          • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
            I have built a platform with a programmer that allows my clients to login and setup their campaigns days or weeks at a time, as well as send out quick messages when they need a boost in business, we use callfire for our API sms texting capabilities..
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          • Profile picture of the author bankcardguru
            Client sets up a unique keyword "joepizza" - customers text the unique keyword to a short code that your provider supplies - once the customer sends the keyword they are automatically on the merchants database and he can send them specials, band announcements, inventory alerts, 2for1's etc. You should also have a platform that supports birthday club, txt2win, txt2vote, txt2survey, and contests. This is an effective way for the merchant to promote other offers.
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            • Profile picture of the author gomarket
              Very interesting, thanks
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        • Profile picture of the author DerFreshmaker
          Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

          Its a little more than that... I charge about 0.80cents a member in the texting database so 500 members 400$
          Do you put a limit on the number of times they can blast their list a month? Also, how many times a month is your typical client sending out blasts. BTW, thanks for all your helpful info.
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          • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
            Yes max 2 times a week
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            • Profile picture of the author High Horsepower
              Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

              Yes max 2 times a week

              Even that's high.

              Everyone uses this example:

              Let's say your restaurant/hair salon/bar is slow, simply blast a text and people will be lining up around the block. :rolleyes:

              In most cases a Merchant should not exceed 5 Texts per MONTH, not per week, day, etc... Abuse this right and all your customers will not only opt out but they will no longer frequent your business, you can actually lose customers.

              People are VERY, VERY, protective of giving out their personal cell phone number. It's completely different from an email campaign where most people have a spam account to send opt-ins.

              SMS is just another TACTIC to bringing in new customers and retain current customers. Don't be fooled by this new "shiny bullet".

              SMTP sucks, unlimited texting uses this set up. Only use SMPP wich is Peer to Peer (real text messaging). You and your clients can get sued for using SMPT.

              Short message peer-to-peer protocol - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

              There is a lot more to this than most people realize.

              All campaigns should be managed by YOU. Never let your client have control over his campaign, they are not marketing experts. Business owners have no clue how to manage a campaign, what the FTC rules are, spam rules, etc...

              This is not a toy to be played with.
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              • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
                Originally Posted by High Horsepower View Post


                SMPT sucks, unlimited texting uses this set up. Only use SMPP wich is Peer to Peer (real text messaging). You and your clients can get sued for using SMPT.
                SMTP I believe.
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                • Profile picture of the author MattR151
                  Hello People;

                  I am really hyped about this idea. I guess myself and many others the following would be ideal:

                  A white label service you can use to get sms cheap and resell it to clients. It must be reliable and easy to use. That way you can charge them a monthly fee and charge per message. A double dip for us!

                  If someone had a step by step blue print they use and could share I would be ever so grateful. Like does the restaurant use biz cards to hand out to their customers with the # and short code? Or do they have a sign at the door?

                  What is the best way to approach the managers of the restaurant? Send them a letter, phone call, or drop in?

                  Matt
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                  • Profile picture of the author nigelchua
                    Hey MattR151

                    Most of the times when I need to knock on doors, I "streamline" my potential clients first, and contact their secretaries or personal assistants to get appointments with them (if not possible, I'd go in without an appointment at moments they're mobile eg just after lunch or just before work ends etc).

                    It's best if you already have collaterals that you can hand to them for them to see, a well rehearsed script as well as answers to FAQs and solutions to/for their businesses. Keep knocking on doors, and dont forget to speak to your family and friends too ok?

                    All the best!
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        • Profile picture of the author bonn
          Restaurants are the best market for text message marketing -- along with television show contests and donation campaigns!

          The best part about text message marketing is that you can slip short URLs into websites like you do with tweets and people can click them with their smartphones.

          A TON of our resellers use our platform to build the mobile sites then slap the short URL our platform generates for them into their text message campaigns. It really takes text message marketing to the next level and increases the quality of the message you deliver to the customer!

          Plus people OPT IN for text message campains. its hard to get people to opt in, but man - once they do you have a solid marketing method. Some lists sare small 10 -20, but others can reach 1000's

          Once you hit 1000's thats when you want to work with a text message marketing company and become an affiliate reseller of their platform -- really satisfy your customer that way. We integrate with some platform for the mobile website side of things. I can refer you to some good people in your area if you'd like

          Keep rockin- good question! Obviously a million warriors are responding! Its SMS is the closest thing Offline people are going to get to Online. Actually over at my company we think its the one thing that is going to bridge the gap effectively.

          Rock on Warriors!
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        • Profile picture of the author stuartpeterson
          I like it very much. Great tips here guys. Doing a "keyword + SMS" campaign for oneself is not that hard, but I admit I'm confused on how to do for other businesses without doing everything for them, which could be very time consuming.
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        • Profile picture of the author florry
          Hi, you may go through internet marketing but as far as result is concerned mobile text marketing would be great for fast response because 90% of customers read their mobile text messages in minutes, 10% read email when they can. Thanks!
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        • Profile picture of the author nealmorgan
          I'm in a business networking group and we use sms messaging to remind other members of meetings and events and we use it to send relevant event reminders to our database, it seems to be working thus far.
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          • Profile picture of the author cashtech29
            Besides doing telephone or door to door cold calls, are there any scripts that one
            could use in an email that will work for SMS marketing?

            Thanks for any suggestions.
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        • Profile picture of the author Sebulba
          Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

          Its a little more than that... I charge about 0.80cents a member in the texting database so 500 members 400$
          Is that 80 cent per member every month? If so, very cool

          Seb
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        • Profile picture of the author 21clg
          For those of you using Twilio/OpenVBX I actually setup a dispatch and it works great for blasting a list from a message composed on my phone.


          What I need to know now is if and HOW I can track the amount of texts being sent through my Twilio setup (through OpenVBX)???

          I just need a simple way to tell how many texts are being sent by whom to which list, so I can know how many outgoing texts a particular client is sending.

          any other analytics solutions that are more comprehensive? not necessarily so my clients can see everything (that would be nice too), but atleast so I can go in and see
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        • Profile picture of the author Ronaldo Brasil
          There is a company called TextMagic that charges 114.88$ or 9.6 cents per 1200 SMS. In this case how much you would charge a campaign to a restaurant knowing that a campaign is at least 1000 numbers? If you do one campaign a week you got to pay 459.52 just for the SMS company. Charging 1000$ I think is to much for running someone campaign. How could I solve that? Sorry I forgot to say that I live in Spain and here we don't have many options for cheap text message companies. I bought the Adam Horwitz Local Monopoly Course but I'm still facing the same problem. Besides their technical department is just an email address from where I never got an answer.
          Is there anyone who could give me a hand?
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        • Profile picture of the author myleswatts033
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          • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
            Originally Posted by myleswatts033 View Post

            I am just questioning if some body has been charging monthly to let companies use their sms platform as well as if the restaurants or other places of job has assured positive ROI from getting their customers to sign up to their txt list and shipping out offers a week.
            I believe this is what most are doing here. Setting up platforms for businesses. There are many ways to do this, and how you do your promotion greatly enhances your chances of success. If you are new to this, I'd suggest picking up one of the WSO's on how to do Text marketing.
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  • Profile picture of the author bankcardguru
    SMS works great. A lot of my bankcard clients are reselling the service. Great residual income and owners love it. Most retailers are spending their ad dollars on generating new clients. SMS allows them to Reward loyal clients and attract new ones through their keyword advertising. It's a great add-on to their existing advertising strategy.

    It always can be used as a door openers if you offering additional services like SEO, social media and google places setup.
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  • Profile picture of the author jmorris18
    OfflineMan - I understand you charge 0.80 cents a member in the texting database i.e local friendly resturant has 500 members sign up to be notified for evening / daily specials.
    You charge them 400.00 What do you / how do you charge for each message they send out? Are you also charging X number of dollars per set of messages per month? So, 400.00 for clients in the database , and say 2 text per day for 100.00 per month? What SMS service are you using? Do you mind me asking how much they charge per text message?
    I appreciate any information you can provide.

    Thanks,
    Jason
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  • Profile picture of the author mouseffects
    text message marketing is one of the best local offerings I've seen in a while because offline business owners get it. The pitch is relatively simple. I start out with a story they can relate to... a slow night. I explain that 96% of all text messages are read and that 84% are read within 10 minutes of receipt.

    "Now, imagine this... your hair salon's appointment book is empty tomorrow and you don't know what to do.

    What if you only had 100 subscribers? Statistically, 84 of them will read your message immediately so, if you send the message out first thing in the morning, they'll see it before their day starts. Just say something like - The first 25 people who set an appointment get ______. Out of 84 people who read it, you could expect up to 10% response, That's 9 people you put in your chairs.

    Now, what if you had 200, 300 or 400 people as subscribers. Can you see how effective this would be for your company?"

    That's you basic sales pitch - growing and communicating with their customers ANY TIME they want (or need to).

    BTW, I charge a set-up fee and monthly. It was said earlier that getting past the first month is crucial and that's true - thus the set-up. Clients will think twice if they've paid a set-up and will be more interested in going multiple months simply because they have "extra" into it.

    That's my 2¢. Hope it helps someone.

    PS. We charge $97 set-up and $97 per month for a basic 1kywd, 100 subscribers, unlimited messages.
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    • Profile picture of the author sandalwood
      Originally Posted by mouseffects View Post

      text message marketing is one of the best local offerings I've seen in a while because offline business owners get it. The pitch is relatively simple. I start out with a story they can relate to... a slow night. I explain that 96% of all text messages are read and that 84% are read within 10 minutes of receipt.

      "Now, imagine this... your hair salon's appointment book is empty tomorrow and you don't know what to do.

      What if you only had 100 subscribers? Statistically, 84 of them will read your message immediately so, if you send the message out first thing in the morning, they'll see it before their day starts. Just say something like - The first 25 people who set an appointment get ______. Out of 84 people who read it, you could expect up to 10% response, That's 9 people you put in your chairs.

      Now, what if you had 200, 300 or 400 people as subscribers. Can you see how effective this would be for your company?"

      That's you basic sales pitch - growing and communicating with their customers ANY TIME they want (or need to).

      BTW, I charge a set-up fee and monthly. It was said earlier that getting past the first month is crucial and that's true - thus the set-up. Clients will think twice if they've paid a set-up and will be more interested in going multiple months simply because they have "extra" into it.

      That's my 2¢. Hope it helps someone.

      PS. We charge $97 set-up and $97 per month for a basic 1kywd, 100 subscribers, unlimited messages.
      Thank you for sharing your script. I use one pretty close to that and it works too. My pricing model is a bit different as I don't charge a set up fee but a $100 a month instead of $97. I ask for the annual fee, $1200, up front but accept the first month as the deposit. I also don't give refunds or make any performance promises. So we are pretty much in the same ball park. Anyone reading this should be able to easily discern that what's important isn't so much the pricing but the person providing the service. I believe if you are straightforward w/your client you'll have them on your books for a long time.

      Again, thank you for sharing your script. I hope more warriors follow your lead.
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      • Profile picture of the author frontrunner1
        Originally Posted by sandalwood View Post

        Want to start a text messaging business? PM me for details.
        Do NOT have enough posts to PM anyone ... Please contact me at your earliest convenience ... awaiting your reply ... THANKS !!!

        rick at frontrunner-enterprises dot com
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      • Profile picture of the author mouseffects
        You're essentially doing the same thing I do by getting the year up front. I just use the set-up fee as my way to hook them.

        Realistically, I don't care about the set-up fee. I've just found that, when I get them using the system, they stay with me. In the beginning I had a few that, after only 30 days, would feel it wasn't working for them so they'd quit.

        When I started the set-up fee, two things happened...
        1. People were more reluctant to stop after the month because they had more invested in the program
        2. I had a figure to bargain with when I was having trouble selling them. Instead of discounting the service, I could give them 50% off the set-up and they feel like they got something. Since I don't care about the set-up anyway, it doesn't matter whether I get 50% or 0% as long as I get the customer.
        I have just elected to put them on a month-to-month agreement instead of an annual one. I admire your tenacity.

        Originally Posted by sandalwood View Post

        Thank you for sharing your script. I use one pretty close to that and it works too. My pricing model is a bit different as I don't charge a set up fee but a $100 a month instead of $97. I ask for the annual fee, $1200, up front but accept the first month as the deposit. I also don't give refunds or make any performance promises. So we are pretty much in the same ball park. Anyone reading this should be able to easily discern that what's important isn't so much the pricing but the person providing the service. I believe if you are straightforward w/your client you'll have them on your books for a long time.

        Again, thank you for sharing your script. I hope more warriors follow your lead.
        Signature

        Larry Perry
        innovedia
        www.innovedia.net

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  • Profile picture of the author JTzor
    Unfortunately for me, I do not have enough posts to PM you ... so i will contact you via your website! HAH!

    - JT
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  • Profile picture of the author tennisbum
    hey has anyone heard about localmobilemonopoly.com? Just thinking of buying this course. Any feedback would be great!!
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  • Profile picture of the author yougpeter
    It is really work.Today this is one of best ways to promote the business or products.
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  • Profile picture of the author sandalwood
    I can't stay away from this topic as I am absolutely astounded at how big SMS will be by the end of the year. Hence, more of my 2¢.

    I offer text messaging through a platform that allows unlimited text messages, the ability to change ads anytime, no set up fees, no per text charges, no hidden charges, no short code charges, unlimited text broadcasting services, unlimited text advertising services, unlimited account access, surveys, contests, unlimited access to all wireless users, works with all wireless carriers and all this for only one low annual price. I do let my clients pay monthly. Monthly seems to be a feature they like. The client is given his own site with complete back office so he can write and send messages anytime he so elects.

    I just closed a deal yesterday w/a large local supermarket chain. I am also working on one w/a large pet store chain. I offer a low annual fee because I also want some of their other marketing dollars. SMS will be the product that gets me in the door so I can build a three or four prong revenue stream.

    BTW, there is a huge niche no one seems to be mentioning. It is one of the largest components in our economy. I have two proposals to present in the next week. Talk about a sweet situation.

    Regardless, SMS is ripe and ready to be exploited. BTW, the Nevada Dept of Transportation uses SMS to inform people of road conditions. I don't know how to break into the government market but if you do, there is one more niche just waiting to pay you.

    Good luck to everyone.
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    • Profile picture of the author adfy
      Originally Posted by sandalwood View Post

      I offer text messaging through a platform that allows unlimited text messages, the ability to change ads anytime, no set up fees, no per text charges, no hidden charges, no short code charges, unlimited text broadcasting services, unlimited text advertising services, unlimited account access, surveys, contests, unlimited access to all wireless users, works with all wireless carriers and all this for only one low annual price. I do let my clients pay monthly. Monthly seems to be a feature they like. The client is given his own site with complete back office so he can write and send messages anytime he so elects.

      Good luck to everyone.
      Sandalwood, I can't pm you but I am interested in your text messaging business. Can you send me more information? Thanks.
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    • Profile picture of the author xlfutur1
      Originally Posted by sandalwood View Post

      I can't stay away from this topic as I am absolutely astounded at how big SMS will be by the end of the year. Hence, more of my 2¢.

      I offer text messaging through a platform that allows unlimited text messages, the ability to change ads anytime, no set up fees, no per text charges, no hidden charges, no short code charges, unlimited text broadcasting services, unlimited text advertising services, unlimited account access, surveys, contests, unlimited access to all wireless users, works with all wireless carriers and all this for only one low annual price. I do let my clients pay monthly. Monthly seems to be a feature they like. The client is given his own site with complete back office so he can write and send messages anytime he so elects.

      I just closed a deal yesterday w/a large local supermarket chain. I am also working on one w/a large pet store chain. I offer a low annual fee because I also want some of their other marketing dollars. SMS will be the product that gets me in the door so I can build a three or four prong revenue stream.

      BTW, there is a huge niche no one seems to be mentioning. It is one of the largest components in our economy. I have two proposals to present in the next week. Talk about a sweet situation.

      Regardless, SMS is ripe and ready to be exploited. BTW, the Nevada Dept of Transportation uses SMS to inform people of road conditions. I don't know how to break into the government market but if you do, there is one more niche just waiting to pay you.

      Good luck to everyone.
      Does your SMS system go through email servers? I don't know how you can send via sms gateway without having any text costs. If you are sending unlimited texts via SMS gateway it sounds like you've found an unbelievable system. If you could elaborate on that would be great. I can also PM you if you'd like.
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    • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
      Originally Posted by sandalwood View Post

      I can't stay away from this topic as I am absolutely astounded at how big SMS will be by the end of the year. Hence, more of my 2¢.

      I offer text messaging through a platform that allows unlimited text messages, the ability to change ads anytime, no set up fees, no per text charges, no hidden charges, no short code charges, unlimited text broadcasting services, unlimited text advertising services, unlimited account access, surveys, contests, unlimited access to all wireless users, works with all wireless carriers and all this for only one low annual price. I do let my clients pay monthly. Monthly seems to be a feature they like. The client is given his own site with complete back office so he can write and send messages anytime he so elects.

      I just closed a deal yesterday w/a large local supermarket chain. I am also working on one w/a large pet store chain. I offer a low annual fee because I also want some of their other marketing dollars. SMS will be the product that gets me in the door so I can build a three or four prong revenue stream.

      BTW, there is a huge niche no one seems to be mentioning. It is one of the largest components in our economy. I have two proposals to present in the next week. Talk about a sweet situation.

      Regardless, SMS is ripe and ready to be exploited. BTW, the Nevada Dept of Transportation uses SMS to inform people of road conditions. I don't know how to break into the government market but if you do, there is one more niche just waiting to pay you.

      Good luck to everyone.

      What platform are you using? Does it use SMTP or SNMP? Mind sharing that huge niche that no one seems to be mentioning?


      yougpeter, are you saying today is your first day with yep text? I was looking at it but I see better options available.
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    • Profile picture of the author tyrabelle
      Hi Sandalwood,
      I am unable to PM you but I hoping that you're able to send me information about your text messaging business. Thanks.
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    • Profile picture of the author cybamage
      Sounds like the Adking system to me.
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  • Profile picture of the author yougpeter
    [DELETED]
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    • Profile picture of the author tyrabelle
      Hi Yougpeter,
      I agree with Freebird85 regarding Yeptext. You can definitely find better options.
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  • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
    Hey guys great to see this thread is on fire. Signed 2 more companies today... each company is worth anywhere from 2300$ to $5000 a year in recurring income... Awesome business to get into!
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    Make $8331 A Month With Text Messaging! Tons Of Reviews CLICK HERE
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    • Profile picture of the author ADukes81
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      Hey guys great to see this thread is on fire. Signed 2 more companies today... each company is worth anywhere from 2300$ to $5000 a year in recurring income... Awesome business to get into!
      Nice work!!!

      I just got off the phone with a friend that owns a pizzeria and I am going to pitch him the idea on Friday.
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  • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
    Great work on signing up two more people for SMS!

    I am just getting into it, but that I mean, I have done hours and hours of research, but haven't signed up anyone because I am not sure which company to use.

    What company do you use?
    How much are you charging?
    Are you running their campaign?
    Are you charging them monthly or annually?

    I appreciate any/all help!

    Thanks!
    I have built my own sms text messaging system, made it dead stupid simple for business owners to use... I use a sms provider in canada to do the messaging... as far as how much I charge it really depends on the restaurant. I have built a whole marketing system with a telemarketer setting me up on 2-3 appointments a day to meet business owners and sell them this stuff... they love it... Im working on a WSO if I can get to it which will explain the script the powerpoint I use to close and all the details as to how anyone can start a 10k a month mobile business...
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    • Profile picture of the author Lee M
      I have built my own sms text messaging system, made it dead stupid simple for business owners to use...
      Do you offer self-service or full service to your customers? What I mean is ... do they set up and run the campaigns themselves within the software? Or do you handle everything for them? i.e. they don't even need to log into software.

      Lee
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      Working from Home since 1991
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      “Observe your competitors, for they first find your faults.”
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      • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
        We do both... its so easy to use that we let them run it themselves...
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        Make $8331 A Month With Text Messaging! Tons Of Reviews CLICK HERE
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    • Profile picture of the author tennisbum
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      I have built my own sms text messaging system, made it dead stupid simple for business owners to use... I use a sms provider in canada to do the messaging... as far as how much I charge it really depends on the restaurant. I have built a whole marketing system with a telemarketer setting me up on 2-3 appointments a day to meet business owners and sell them this stuff... they love it... Im working on a WSO if I can get to it which will explain the script the powerpoint I use to close and all the details as to how anyone can start a 10k a month mobile business...
      Hey sounds interesting! I'm in Vancouver, Canada. Would that work in my area? I wouldn't mind finding out a little more info about this program!

      Kerry
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  • Profile picture of the author bonn
    Txtwire.com, boomtext.com, cellit.com, sumotext.com, optit.com etc are good places to start
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  • Profile picture of the author rice4u
    Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

    Hi there im wondering if anyone is helping small businesses like restaurants and more to setup sms marketing in their businesses? Are you charging them a monthly fee to do so? Has the restaurant gotten alot of sales from it?

    Thanks
    Hey there, I join a mobile marketing iZigg brand couple months ago and yes I can honestly say I'm helping out local bizs and the world to be a little greener (less paper printout Mobile marketing work best for local business and it's the next BIG thing! Check out for yourself izigg.com/itxt
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    • Profile picture of the author TinainLosAngeles
      Banned
      Does anyone need a humble Virtual assistant?
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  • Profile picture of the author ericks
    I agree, sms marketing works on local business only, depending on your target. Any business should consider which clientele they would concentrate on and have to use the demographics carefully.
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  • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
    I've built a service for use in USA which enables people to sell SMS to other businesses. It handles everything for business. The business just logs in, types their message to send, and hits send.

    I think it is actually better than white label because it puts all using businesses into one location so as more "consumers/customers" become familiar with it, the more our site helps build the business subscriber list.
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  • Profile picture of the author nigelchua
    Hi Offline Man

    In Singapore, this is a trend that is picking up, with more and more of my SMSes becoming commercial ones (real estate, fashion retail proves to be the main lot). I asked one of my vendors, and he explained to send out SMSes like this, one needs to buy a specific SMS Modem as well as a phone card/line (which blasts out the SMSes). The modem costs about SGD600, and the line is charged like any other regular line (as by your local telco). Thing is most of the SMSes i received were totally irrelevant, so if you're planning to use it to contact your clients, perhaps it shouldn't be a standalone marketing practice, more like in conjunction to a larger marketing program...
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  • Profile picture of the author thattori
    Originally Posted by sandalwood
    Want to start a text messaging business? PM me for details.

    @ Sandalwood
    How can I contact you directly, can't pm you yet,
    Thanks
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  • Profile picture of the author iSoftware
    Yes it works - you just have to set it up right so it delivers the maximum ROI....
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  • Profile picture of the author 1234nasir
    For your question..... "Has the restaurant gotten alot of sales from it?"
    Sure! for any kind of business SMS service gives us good results because it is an easy and quick approach to the clients.

    Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

    Hi there im wondering if anyone is helping small businesses like restaurants and more to setup sms marketing in their businesses? Are you charging them a monthly fee to do so? Has the restaurant gotten alot of sales from it?

    Thanks
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  • Profile picture of the author TrumpiaTim
    For many of the marketing and consulting companies that Trumpia works with, it seems to be a 50/50 split in regards to who's managing the campaign.

    For smaller mom and pop restaurants it seems as though they'd prefer the agency to handle their mobile marketing campaign, setting up keywords and sending out messages. However with the larger restaurants and younger business owners, they seem to prefer the option to manage their own campaign and thus agencies that cater to that market have gone the White Label Reseller route.

    In any case, this should be a positive note for anyone getting into mobile marketing that the average restaurant client is paying $160 a month for mobile marketing services through Trumpia so budget doesn't seem to be an issue here and more and more people are getting acclimated with mobile marketing.
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    • Profile picture of the author Lee M
      Originally Posted by TrumpiaTim View Post

      Average restaurant client is paying $160 a month for mobile marketing services through Trumpia so budget doesn't seem to be an issue here and more and more people are getting acclimated with mobile marketing.
      Thanks Tim, great info!

      I had a trial account at Trumpia and thought it was good. On the surface of things, it looks like Trumpia (mobile marketing/texting etc.) is aimed at various verticals. i.e. listing on your website. However, what industries have you found it to work best for? i.e. restaurant, clubs, etc.

      Lee
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      “Observe your competitors, for they first find your faults.”
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  • Profile picture of the author TrumpiaTim
    Lee,

    Well I hate to sound like such a salesperson, but there's not an industry where it doesn't make sense just because of the immediacy of text messages and the overwhelming population which has access to a cell phone.

    Trumpia is aimed at numerous verticals and we have resellers in many different niche markets all of which are seeing tremendous success, i.e. restaurants, retail stores, fitness industry, churches, entertainment, etc.

    My typical advice is to tap into the niche market that you feel you have the most extensive knowledge and largest network in. This will make the pitch more comfortable for you when you're selling mobile and it also gives you an advantage in that you're able to tap into an existing networks with existing contacts instead of contacting cold leads.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
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    • Profile picture of the author Bennette
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      • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
        Originally Posted by Bennette View Post

        Hi Proapc,

        Nice job BTW! I have a couple questions.

        Are you using Izigg as the platform to manage your customers text messages?
        Are you building a list of customers that you control and then charge business owners a fee to send their offer to your "Community list" of people, that signed up to receive offers via text or email? For example, I have a restaurant and someone else has a health spa. Do you send a text with a offer to the restaurant and spa customers?

        I hope that makes sense.
        I do not use any of the "90210" "keyword" type programs. I control everything from my office. When some one sees a sign or banner in town that says, "Get Free Coupons" Go To Coupon Text Express | Facebook and they sign up to receive coupons by text, they are placed in a local list and businesses who are using our service email us a special for the local list either once or twice weekly depending on the plan they are on. They must request the time the text goes out at least 24 hours in advance. We set the text in the software to go out to the list. The merchant pays a monthly fee with no additional charges. we offer all local merchants the first 30 days free plus we offer to put a "Get Free Coupons" TAB on their Facebook page. They let their fans and customers know to sign up on their page or they can send them to Buzz999.com.
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        • Profile picture of the author xichabodx
          Originally Posted by proapc View Post

          I do not use any of the "90210" "keyword" type programs. I control everything from my office. When some one sees a sign or banner in town that says, "Get Free Coupons" Go To Coupon Text Express | Facebook and they sign up to receive coupons by text, they are placed in a local list and businesses who are using our service email us a special for the local list either once or twice weekly depending on the plan they are on. They must request the time the text goes out at least 24 hours in advance. We set the text in the software to go out to the list. The merchant pays a monthly fee with no additional charges. we offer all local merchants the first 30 days free plus we offer to put a "Get Free Coupons" TAB on their Facebook page. They let their fans and customers know to sign up on their page or they can send them to Buzz999.com.
          What have you found to be the best monthly fee to charge for your "twist" on this service? I, too, had a similar approach. I created a mobile text coupon site (along with a Facebook Fan Page) that listed all the local businesses. It's kind of like a directory of all the local businesses. To get the coupon, they simply clicked on their banner. Their info (basic and text code) is listed on their very own page. I, too, wasn't using any type of service, other than the basic DotGo-type program. Rather than a paid service, I was using the 368638 (dotnet) short code. I'm unable to capture any #s to build a list, but it costs nothing going this route.

          I've since decided to use a more robust approach (to offer more services and to build lists for clients), but haven't ruled out the method above entirely.
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        • Profile picture of the author thattori
          Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

          I built an SMS marketing service for small businesses. I sold it to a few businesses for $50/month in the beginning and are now up to $100/month. We are still working on some changes before launching big and hopefully will grow pretty fast and at $150/month.

          I was working for Chick-fil-a for awhile after they started using my service. I sent out a message for buy one get one free milkshake and 2 minutes later someone walked in with the message. Man that was fast.

          There is a difference between SMS and SMTP so be careful there.

          If you are in USA, I can probably help you get going with SMS marketing in the near future with charging only for each business you sell to, or I may be able to build you your own system if you don't mind a bigger initial cost.
          Originally Posted by proapc View Post

          I do not use any of the "90210" "keyword" type programs. I control everything from my office. When some one sees a sign or banner in town that says, "Get Free Coupons" Go To Coupon Text Express | Facebook and they sign up to receive coupons by text, they are placed in a local list and businesses who are using our service email us a special for the local list either once or twice weekly depending on the plan they are on. They must request the time the text goes out at least 24 hours in advance. We set the text in the software to go out to the list. The merchant pays a monthly fee with no additional charges. we offer all local merchants the first 30 days free plus we offer to put a "Get Free Coupons" TAB on their Facebook page. They let their fans and customers know to sign up on their page or they can send them to Buzz999.com.

          Nice twist!!! How your local merchants responding to your service.
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        • Profile picture of the author Bennette
          Originally Posted by proapc View Post

          I do not use any of the "90210" "keyword" type programs. I control everything from my office. When some one sees a sign or banner in town that says, "Get Free Coupons" Go To Coupon Text Express | Facebook and they sign up to receive coupons by text, they are placed in a local list and businesses who are using our service email us a special for the local list either once or twice weekly depending on the plan they are on. They must request the time the text goes out at least 24 hours in advance. We set the text in the software to go out to the list. The merchant pays a monthly fee with no additional charges. we offer all local merchants the first 30 days free plus we offer to put a "Get Free Coupons" TAB on their Facebook page. They let their fans and customers know to sign up on their page or they can send them to Buzz999.com.
          Thanks that answers my questions. Is there a one time fee for your software?
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  • Profile picture of the author Transcripts
    That really is an interesting twist. Do you notice that subscribers get overwhelmed and unsubscribe because they are getting too many texts? I guess you have access to the list you are building? Do you find it's easier to sign up businesses to a city group like this versus their own individual list?
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    I have a special notice up on the sign up form that people who normally do not receive texts might want to consider going to their settings on their phone and set the ring to "None" and even turn the vibrate off. They can check their phone periodically and ...(here is where I insert a little subliminal reason) just like their newspaper which they scour through weekly for coupons, they simply scroll through the texts and the ones they want to use they keep and the others they can simply delete.

    I'm actually going to do a 1 minute video showing them how to do this and upload it to the "you have subscribed successfully page"

    If you haven't downloaded the report, get it ...it's free and you can share it with anyone..
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  • Profile picture of the author Transcripts
    Okay, I've just read the report. I guess you're not sharing which SMS company you use? I am convinced that FB and SMS are great for local businesses with small marketing budgets.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    Actually I do not use any company. I handle everything form the software on my desktop. I will be updating the full report at Developers | S.M.A.R.T Business Solutions on how everyone can access the software for under $100 next week. I'm not foolish enough to think I can handle the whole country on my own. The free report just shows you what I am doing. Anyone can do this in their local market or go as wide as you wish. As you can see, I'm only working 6 or seven cities with JV partners but if you have your own server and a little HTML knowledge, you can have this set up and running in about an hour and begin offering it in your community.

    This was not intended to be a sales letter. I really want everyone to see the potential and then buy the full report if you want to do it on your own OR JV with me. This is too easy.

    Mo
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    • Profile picture of the author thattori
      Originally Posted by proapc View Post

      Actually I do not use any company. I handle everything form the software on my desktop. I will be updating the full report at Developers | S.M.A.R.T Business Solutions on how everyone can access the software for under $100 next week. I'm not foolish enough to think I can handle the whole country on my own. The free report just shows you what I am doing. Anyone can do this in their local market or go as wide as you wish. As you can see, I'm only working 6 or seven cities with JV partners but if you have your own server and a little HTML knowledge, you can have this set up and running in about an hour and begin offering it in your community.

      This was not intended to be a sales letter. I really want everyone to see the potential and then buy the full report if you want to do it on your own OR JV with me. This is too easy.

      Mo
      Sorry can't PM yet, soon!!!!! can you contact me at: th1959th(at)gmail (dot) com, possibly JV or set up mine
      Thanks
      Tom
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  • Profile picture of the author vfactor
    what would be the strategy to calculate the profit for any local businessman?
    vijay
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    • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
      I'm not sure I understand your question but what we do is offer the business 30 days free to try the program. They can easily TRACK the results as people come in and show their text message to claim the discount offered. If a local business sends out a text at 4 PM on Wednesday and he gets a flood of customers that evening showing the coupon text, he knows his advertising works.
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      • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
        We have a built tracker for sales that works with coupon codes so we can show the merchants hey look you made an extra 5000$ this month because of me
        Signature
        Make $8331 A Month With Text Messaging! Tons Of Reviews CLICK HERE
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        • Profile picture of the author tdorland
          Hey Offlineman,
          I read earlier in this thread that you were thinking of creating a WSO on how to sell this SMS to local businesses. Did you get that going yet? I would surely be interested.
          Signature
          www.RiseMobile.net - Your FULL SERVICE mobile marketing partner for SMS, Mobile Websites, Smart Phone Apps, and Mobile Appointment Reminders
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        • Profile picture of the author BillBert
          Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

          We have a built tracker for sales that works with coupon codes so we can show the merchants hey look you made an extra 5000$ this month because of me
          I am curious how can you possibly track the sales that they make? I understand how you monitor the number of messages sent, but how can you determine if it resulted in any action or sales?

          Thanks
          Signature
          Do You Need a Cost Effective way of reaching out to your offline clients or prospects?

          Feel free to contact me directly and I will give you the details!
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    I forgot to mention the other important point.

    We offer businesses the opportunity to send unlimited messages to unlimited lists for $59 a month.

    No other fees or per text charges EVER!
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    The oldest saying in IM is still true in MM. The money is in the list. We spend 80% of our time promoting to the public. They are the ones who benefit the most with the savings by text. We then offer any merchant 30 days free to post 1 text a week to the general list. This is targeted advertising with a 97% or more open rate. Its staggering. Then we offer them 2 plans. $59 a month for 1 text a week or $89 a month for 2 texts per week. They see results immediately. This is not your ordinary 90210 type text service this is email by text.
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    • Profile picture of the author criniit
      I have been selling SMS marketing services to local businesses for a while now and have pretty much perfected the pitch.

      It seems that most people here after a good grasp on which company they want to use and how the technology works. But would any of you have any interest if I put together a WSO on exactly how to sell this customers? Including scripts, videos, rebrandable marketing materials ect? I have been thinking about doing this for awhile.

      If any of you are interested in this let me know here or send me an email at stevie.brodsky @ gmail dot com

      If I get enough interest I'll make this. Let me know what you guys think!

      PS: If you PM me I don't have enough posts here to PM you back so either leave your email address or email me directly!
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      • Profile picture of the author BetterThanZero
        Hi criniit
        I would be interested in a course like SMS marketing services to local businesses

        I sent you an email
        Thanks,


        Originally Posted by criniit View Post

        I have been selling SMS marketing services to local businesses for a while now and have pretty much perfected the pitch.

        It seems that most people here after a good grasp on which company they want to use and how the technology works. But would any of you have any interest if I put together a WSO on exactly how to sell this customers? Including scripts, videos, rebrandable marketing materials ect? I have been thinking about doing this for awhile.

        If any of you are interested in this let me know here or send me an email at stevie.brodsky @ gmail dot com

        If I get enough interest I'll make this. Let me know what you guys think!

        PS: If you PM me I don't have enough posts here to PM you back so either leave your email address or email me directly!
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      • Profile picture of the author bankcardguru
        will email you.
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  • Profile picture of the author quintonboyer
    My friend's pizza shop is doing very well with SMS marketing. He sends out SMS on a very slow day such as Monday, and it really brings a lot of people in.
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  • Profile picture of the author Dennis Murphy
    Maurice,

    Are you aware that the graphic in your report (page 4) is actually a screen grab from a 90210/iZigg promo video? I assumed you were associated with 90210 since you are using their image, but it doesn't sound like you are based on your posts.

    Dennis
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    • Profile picture of the author philboy uk
      Originally Posted by Dennis Murphy View Post

      Maurice,

      Are you aware that the graphic in your report (page 4) is actually a screen grab from a 90210/iZigg promo video? I assumed you were associated with 90210 since you are using their image, but it doesn't sound like you are based on your posts.

      Dennis
      The video is an edited version of the IZigg promo.
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  • Profile picture of the author bankcardguru
    It absolutely works we bundle it with credit card processing as well. Great lead in.
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  • Profile picture of the author redcell1
    I have to admit I have not caught on to SMS marketing but with this thread I feel like I just got schooled in it lol
    Signature

    Just here to see the shenanigans.

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  • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
    Hey everyone I am working on what will be the most detailed package for anyone who wants to copy my success and create an amazing SMS Text Messaging business. Stay tuned this will blow your mind!
    Signature
    Make $8331 A Month With Text Messaging! Tons Of Reviews CLICK HERE
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    • Profile picture of the author nctom
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      Hey everyone I am working on what will be the most detailed package for anyone who wants to copy my success and create an amazing SMS Text Messaging business. Stay tuned this will blow your mind!
      Hello,

      Thanks for all great information you've contributed about this business. I'm looking forward to your package.
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      • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
        Thanks@ I am filming a ton of video for it right now it should be really exciting!! From A to Z on how to build a huge success with mobile...
        Signature
        Make $8331 A Month With Text Messaging! Tons Of Reviews CLICK HERE
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        • Profile picture of the author Bob Banfield
          Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

          Thanks@ I am filming a ton of video for it right now it should be really exciting!! From A to Z on how to build a huge success with mobile...
          What about something that can be used in the UK?. Would be interested.
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    • Profile picture of the author rickstopfive
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      Hey everyone I am working on what will be the most detailed package for anyone who wants to copy my success and create an amazing SMS Text Messaging business. Stay tuned this will blow your mind!
      Love to see what you have.,especially with you being Canadian I know it will work up here in the great white north. Do you have any idea when you will be launching ?
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      • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
        Our launch date looks like it will be May 2nd... I have a few major jvs working with us... its going to be amazing...
        Signature
        Make $8331 A Month With Text Messaging! Tons Of Reviews CLICK HERE
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        • Profile picture of the author manxman
          Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

          Our launch date looks like it will be May 2nd... I have a few major jvs working with us... its going to be amazing...
          Anyone been in contact with OfflineMan about this? I sent a PM but have not heard back.
          Signature

          Richard
          Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

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          • Profile picture of the author zbw777
            Nope, haven't seen or heard anything yet. I've been working on materials and solutions for my own needs, but I'm smart enough to write them so that they could be white labeled or plr... So if I ever get my butt in gear, I'll get these finished and could release them.
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          • Profile picture of the author MKBridge
            Originally Posted by manxman View Post

            Anyone been in contact with OfflineMan about this? I sent a PM but have not heard back.
            I sent him a pm and haven't heard back as well. I wanted to get in early in case the price goes up as people purchase.
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    • Profile picture of the author manxman
      Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

      Hey everyone I am working on what will be the most detailed package for anyone who wants to copy my success and create an amazing SMS Text Messaging business. Stay tuned this will blow your mind!
      Really looking forward to this, especially since you can add a little Canadian flavour to it based on your own experience.
      Signature

      Richard
      Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

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  • Profile picture of the author rickstopfive
    Originally Posted by OfflineMan View Post

    Hi there im wondering if anyone is helping small businesses like restaurants and more to setup sms marketing in their businesses? Are you charging them a monthly fee to do so? Has the restaurant gotten alot of sales from it?

    Thanks

    My thoughts are it will work but you have to remember that small business is small funds for marketing. I bought the Local Mobile Marketing system from Adam Horowitz and after reading it and finding out his text system didn't work in Canada I got a refund. I did talk with a couple of small company's here and they are interested enough that I have found a text company that works here. Will now work with these company's and hope to get some thing going. My fee structure is a small setup fee and monthly fee with about a 55% profit.
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  • Profile picture of the author WillR
    A lot of you are saying that the advantage to using text messages over email is they are instant and have an extremely high open rate. Also that we carry our phones with us where ever we go. This is true.

    But this is exactly what will end up destroying text message marketing over the next few years.

    It may work well now but that is only because it is still relatively new and people are only receiving the occasional message. As soon as more and more businesses get on board with this people will become overwhelmed with messages and it will end up exactly like email marketing has with low open rates and big unsubscribes.

    It's not a matter of 'if' but 'when'.

    It's the same with this whole coupon revolution going on right now. If no businesses offered coupons then no single business would be at an advantage. Now all these coupon sites are forcing smaller businesses, who otherwise wouldn't, to offer coupons and special deals just to remain competitive. So in a few years time all it means is every business is now offering coupons and on a level playing field again yet they are all making less money than a few years before when none of them offered coupons.
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    • Profile picture of the author criniit
      Originally Posted by WillR View Post

      A lot of you are saying that the advantage to using text messages over email is they are instant and have an extremely high open rate. Also that we carry our phones with us where ever we go. This is true.

      But this is exactly what will end up destroying text message marketing over the next few years.

      It may work well now but that is only because it is still relatively new and people are only receiving the occasional message. As soon as more and more businesses get on board with this people will become overwhelmed with messages and it will end up exactly like email marketing has with low open rates and big unsubscribes.

      It's not a matter of 'if' but 'when'.
      True this could happen. But SMS is completely optin. There is no "spam" with this it is completely up to the individual if they want to receive coupons to their phone from a business. As opposed to email which is all just non optin spam spam spam.

      Think of it like this way. The emails that you optin to you check right?
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      • Profile picture of the author WillR
        Originally Posted by criniit View Post

        Think of it like this way. The emails that you optin to you check right?
        No, I don't. Nor do a lot of other people, thus the tiny open rates people are experiencing these days. I may be excited to open the first few emails I receive from a list I join but as I receive more and more emails I become less interested in opening them - and so does everyone else.

        Things like this work well when they are new. As soon as people are receiving deals on their phone every second day the optin rates will drop and continue to drop slowly over time, whether they have opted in to receive those deals or not.
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        • Profile picture of the author criniit
          Originally Posted by WillR View Post

          No, I don't. Nor do a lot of other people, thus the tiny open rates people are experiencing these days. I may be excited to open the first few emails I receive from a list I join but as I receive more and more emails I become less interested in opening them - and so does everyone else.

          Things like this work well when they are new. As soon as people are receiving deals on their phone every second day the optin rates will drop and continue to drop slowly over time, whether they have opted in to receive those deals or not.
          True, but the difference between email and text is that when you get a text you see atleast the first couple lines of text and therefore they see the offer. So if they are hungry and trying to find somewhere to eat and all of a sudden a text comes in saying free dessert with entree, whatever, they are more likely to respond to it than an email that they never open.

          And yes it is true that the text being shown before it is opened is mainly only on smart phones. How ever smart phone users make up over 80% of the people that optin to my clients lists. No matter if they open it or not they are still going to see the offer.
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          • Profile picture of the author WillR
            Originally Posted by criniit View Post

            True, but the difference between email and text is that when you get a text you see atleast the first couple lines of text and therefore they see the offer. So if they are hungry and trying to find somewhere to eat and all of a sudden a text comes in saying free dessert with entree, whatever, they are more likely to respond to it than an email that they never open.

            And yes it is true that the text being shown before it is opened is mainly only on smart phones. How ever smart phone users make up over 80% of the people that optin to my clients lists. No matter if they open it or not they are still going to see the offer.
            What I am getting at is the fact that they are carrying this device around with them all day everyday, they are going to get annoyed a lot quicker by these types of messages because there is no escaping them unlike with emails. People won't just not open the messages, they will unsubscribe.

            These things are cute to start off with but once they become mainstream and overused they get ruined. It has happened with email and it will happen again with SMS marketing - it's only a matter of time. It's just fact.
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            • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
              Originally Posted by WillR View Post

              What I am getting at is the fact that they are carrying this device around with them all day everyday, they are going to get annoyed a lot quicker by these types of messages because there is no escaping them unlike with emails. People won't just not open the messages, they will unsubscribe.

              These things are cute to start off with but once they become mainstream and overused they get ruined. It has happened with email and it will happen again with SMS marketing - it's only a matter of time. It's just fact.
              I agree to an extent. In the future, SMS may not be the most effective route, but we're looking probably at least 10 years down the road before it reaches the point where it's no longer viable. Now, there will be technologies in the near future that will compliment SMS marketing to keep it fresh for an even longer time and make 'opting in' an obsolete way of getting in contact with your customers.

              We're probably 3 years away from something that's going to revolutionize the way we will interact with customers. And I plan on being at the forefront of it. Until then, I'm satisfied making a killing on the current methods of SMS Marketing
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              • Profile picture of the author criniit
                Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

                I agree to an extent. In the future, SMS may not be the most effective route, but we're looking probably at least 10 years down the road before it reaches the point where it's no longer viable. Now, there will be technologies in the near future that will compliment SMS marketing to keep it fresh for an even longer time and make 'opting in' an obsolete way of getting in contact with your customers.

                We're probably 3 years away from something that's going to revolutionize the way we will interact with customers. And I plan on being at the forefront of it. Until then, I'm satisfied making a killing on the current methods of SMS Marketing
                Completely agree with you, well said.
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              • Profile picture of the author WillR
                Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

                but we're looking probably at least 10 years down the road before it reaches the point where it's no longer viable.
                I think with the current uptake and usage of mobile devices this is going to happen a lot sooner than 10 years down the track.

                I guess none of us can say for certain. I am not saying don't do sms marketing. I agree it's a great opportunity for those businesses that get on board NOW while the iron is still hot. But I can't see it being nearly as effective 3 years down the track.
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                • Profile picture of the author Izesta
                  Originally Posted by WillR View Post

                  I think with the current uptake and usage of mobile devices this is going to happen a lot sooner than 10 years down the track.

                  I guess none of us can say for certain. I am not saying don't do sms marketing. I agree it's a great opportunity for those businesses that get on board NOW while the iron is still hot. But I can't see it being nearly as effective 3 years down the track.

                  The technology times are such that almost any product can lose its attractiveness almost overnight. We never know. There's always a new kid on the block. I heard last week that the Flip Camera will be going out of production Blew my mind.

                  Nothing we can do about it. But just roll on with the show as it is now.
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            • Profile picture of the author Lee M
              Originally Posted by WillR View Post

              What I am getting at is the fact that they are carrying this device around with them all day everyday, they are going to get annoyed a lot quicker by these types of messages because there is no escaping them unlike with emails.
              I think there is a lot of truth in what you are saying since a cell phone is such a personal device! However, consider how many texts the "average cell phone user" sends and receives today. For example, I sent/received 641 last month, which is about average.

              The number of "marketing" messages you may receive from a group of retailers that you opted-in for ... will always greatly pale in comparison. For example, say you've opted-in for 10 local campaigns and they each send one text per week. It won't seem quite as annoying especially since you can simply reply STOP to any message and be done with it.

              I do think you raise a good point in that people will become reluctant over time to opt-in for campaigns that simply say...."join our mobile list" without a real enticing offer. It will be interesting to see how this unfolds in the years ahead.
              Signature
              Working from Home since 1991
              (Well before anyone knew it could be done!)

              “Observe your competitors, for they first find your faults.”
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            • Profile picture of the author xichabodx
              Originally Posted by WillR View Post

              What I am getting at is the fact that they are carrying this device around with them all day everyday, they are going to get annoyed a lot quicker by these types of messages because there is no escaping them unlike with emails. People won't just not open the messages, they will unsubscribe.

              These things are cute to start off with but once they become mainstream and overused they get ruined. It has happened with email and it will happen again with SMS marketing - it's only a matter of time. It's just fact.
              How can it be considered a fact, when all you're doing is speculating? If they get annoyed, then yes, they can simply opt-out...just as easily as they opted-in. This is just 1 aspect of mobile marketing that separates itself from email.

              I think the key to a successful and non-intrusive approach and SMS campaign is not to send out a message every day...every other day...etc. I feel once a week is probably more than enough. That's what, 4 texts per month? ...and for something someone chose to subscribe to, so they could be alerted to their favorite place's newest promotion or coupon?

              You fail to mention the uses for those not wanting to promote their goods & services via a retail environment. What about doctor offices or salons that want to use the service to set up appointment reminders? You think the local consumers (who wanted to be reminded or notified of an open appointment) are going to opt-out of this service?

              What about, say, those that want to follow their favorite band or musician?
              How about parents wanting to stay up-to-date with their child's local school's closings (due to weather), functions, fund raisers, sports activities, etc. etc.?

              On the other hand, I would agree with you if whoever is managing these campaigns abuse their leverage (by sending out too many blasts, too often). It could get old quick.
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            • Profile picture of the author TWalker
              Originally Posted by WillR View Post

              What I am getting at is the fact that they are carrying this device around with them all day everyday, they are going to get annoyed a lot quicker by these types of messages because there is no escaping them unlike with emails. People won't just not open the messages, they will unsubscribe.

              These things are cute to start off with but once they become mainstream and overused they get ruined. It has happened with email and it will happen again with SMS marketing - it's only a matter of time. It's just fact.
              Of course...... its called evolution. Another more advanced medium will come along, no reason not to take part in the current one.

              People said the same things about the Internet or HTML. It won't last people will get tired of it.....blahblah. Guess what HTML is still great, so is PHP and most other popular languages even though more advanced languages exist.

              I still use email believe it or not.

              But if I opt in to be notified for an appointment with my barber or my optometrist, or my class got cancelled I will be grateful I'm carrying around a device that gives me notifications on a regular basis.

              I won't opt-out either.

              Until something better comes along.........
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            • Profile picture of the author manxman
              Originally Posted by WillR View Post

              These things are cute to start off with but once they become mainstream and overused they get ruined. It has happened with email and it will happen again with SMS marketing - it's only a matter of time. It's just fact.
              I appreciate the commentary that some of you are presenting, but you seem to be giving only the negative side. Do you have an alternative to SMS messaging that you feel is better?

              If everyone reading this thread agrees with you, and stops their move into this market, do you think that will stop it?

              Personally, I would prefer that the naysayers (having explained their thoughts here) move on to another custom thread of their own to discuss the plus and minus of using this technology to market, and leave this thread to its original questions from Offlineman. I would like to concentrate, in this thread, on the how, not the why or why not.

              Thank you for alerting us to the problems; now lets get back to the previously scheduled show.
              Signature

              Richard
              Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

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            • Profile picture of the author MaxReferrals
              Originally Posted by WillR View Post

              ...........These things are cute to start off with but once they become mainstream and overused they get ruined.....
              Smartest thing I read here in a while.
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              • Profile picture of the author xichabodx
                Originally Posted by MaxReferrals View Post

                Smartest thing I read here in a while.
                ...says the guy with a SMS WSO... :rolleyes:
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                • Profile picture of the author scarab
                  @propac

                  I think what you are doing is cool but if you search the internet for the legality of what you are doing you will find that it really isn't safe and does in fact fall under the CAN-SPAM Act. Also Telcos and Carriers have already stated that 'they do not like it' and will in fact shut it down. SMTP to text cell's is not meant to be for commercial traffic. Kinda like passing on Left, sure you can do it but it is not acceptable and do it enough someone call you in.

                  Below is a couple of paragraphs from a txt-board website and it does have the research.

                  "
                  First, it might be illegal. Since these are emails rather than text messages, they are subject to the FTC’s CAN-SPAM Act. If you use SMTP to send unsolicited messages, you can be fined by the FTC for up to $11,000 per message. And because SMTP messages don’t provide an opt-out mechanism as SMS messages do, they usually do qualify as spam under the CAN-SPAM Act.
                  Second, cellphone carriers can and do block SMTP messages. The SMTP delivery channel for cellphones was never intended for receiving commercial messages. Carriers monitor this channel and if they detect your messages (as they eventually will) they will block you out. They won’t even notify you. Your messages will simply stop arriving."


                  I don't think any one here is irritated with what you are doing but are wondering why you don't develop the same system you have now into an SMS system. SMS is not high priced. Depending on you size and the number of messages you send you can get pricing anywhere from .005 per message up to .05. Plenty of room to make profit. If you did that then no one could shut you down.
                  Good luck and good selling
                  Signature

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                  • Profile picture of the author cashtech29
                    Good to know all of the legal, before jumping in...
                    Thanks for sharing that.
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                  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
                    Originally Posted by scarab View Post

                    @propac
                    because SMTP messages don't provide an opt-out mechanism as SMS messages do, they usually do qualify as spam under the CAN-SPAM Act.
                    Who says they do not provide opt-out mechanism? You can opt out online as well as a direct reply "stop" from your phone. I wish you guys would look at what the program is before you assume anything. I do not email blast a list of phone numbers. all subscribers ask to be on the list.....PERIOD
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      • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
        Originally Posted by criniit View Post

        True this could happen. But SMS is completely optin. There is no "spam" with this it is completely up to the individual if they want to receive coupons to their phone from a business. As opposed to email which is all just non optin spam spam spam.

        Think of it like this way. The emails that you optin to you check right?
        This is the whole point. You made a decision to opt in and you can easily reply stop or keep your alert ring to off and check your texts occasionally..it takes less time than email. The thing most overlooked is I haven't had anyone offer to sell me their "text" list.

        My text service tells people right on the enrollment for that if they have an unlimited text program great but if they are on an limited plan like 250 texts for $5 with Verizon, they need to rethink signing up.

        Success in business is COMPETITIVE and if you are going to succeed you had better offer a deal. How many here have bought from HalfPriceBanners.com?
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    I've been reading all of these posts and the one redundancy is "The per text charge" and "The company handles all outgoing texts for you the subscriber."

    Before you make the decision to buy, check all your options. There are services that you can purchase where all the operations are handled by you with no per text charge.

    You can either buy the service and they will install it for you on your server or set up a separate domain/cpanel for you if you choose to do the texting for your customers.

    This way you can charge a restaurant a flat monthly fee for texting and they like the idea of fixed cost vs variable.

    Download my report below. It'll answer your questions.
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    • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
      Originally Posted by proapc View Post

      I've been reading all of these posts and the one redundancy is "The per text charge" and "The company handles all outgoing texts for you the subscriber."

      Before you make the decision to buy, check all your options. There are services that you can purchase where all the operations are handled by you with no per text charge.

      You can either buy the service and they will install it for you on your server or set up a separate domain/cpanel for you if you choose to do the texting for your customers.

      This way you can charge a restaurant a flat monthly fee for texting and they like the idea of fixed cost vs variable.

      Download my report below. It'll answer your questions.
      What do you think about possible issues with mobile companies that don't like smpt messaging (I think that's what you're talking about)?


      Thomas
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    • Profile picture of the author manxman
      Originally Posted by proapc View Post

      I've been reading all of these posts and the one redundancy is "The per text charge" and "The company handles all outgoing texts for you the subscriber."

      Before you make the decision to buy, check all your options. There are services that you can purchase where all the operations are handled by you with no per text charge.

      You can either buy the service and they will install it for you on your server or set up a separate domain/cpanel for you if you choose to do the texting for your customers.

      This way you can charge a restaurant a flat monthly fee for texting and they like the idea of fixed cost vs variable.

      Download my report below. It'll answer your questions.
      If it is true SMS (I downloaded your free intro and it says SMS in several spots) how can it be a fixed cost? My understanding is that in true SMS the carriers charge on volume. Have I been misled?

      You have to be connected to the system through a carrier don't you?
      Signature

      Richard
      Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

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      • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
        Originally Posted by manxman View Post

        If it is true SMS (I downloaded your free intro and it says SMS in several spots) how can it be a fixed cost? My understanding is that in true SMS the carriers charge on volume. Have I been misled?

        You have to be connected to the system through a carrier don't you?
        There are some fixed cost SMS options (at least in the USA). But yeah, most are volume based because sending SMS messages is not a free service from the mobile providers.
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        • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
          Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

          There are some fixed cost SMS options (at least in the USA). But yeah, most are volume based because sending SMS messages is not a free service from the mobile providers.
          Most of "fixed" costs SMS services require the use of double keywords. In other words, customers need to send
          two words to the shortcode instead of one. Sucks, but it 'fixed" :-)
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          • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
            "Most" - probably true. But, that does not mean all. So, there are some that do not require double keywords.

            "Sucks" - even if it had to be double keyword, what do you find that sucks about that?

            Originally Posted by SirThomas View Post

            Most of "fixed" costs SMS services require the use of double keywords. In other words, customers need to send
            two words to the shortcode instead of one. Sucks, but it 'fixed" :-)
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            • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
              Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

              "Most" - probably true. But, that does not mean all. So, there are some that do not require double keywords.

              "Sucks" - even if it had to be double keyword, what do you find that sucks about that?
              Two words are simply less convenient and more difficult to remember. Therefore, it may not have the same viral effect.

              txtrz joepizz to 78678 against

              joepizza to 78678 (if you can get that) or

              freepizza to 206-606-7878

              It's everybody's choice. My problem with two-word phrase is that usually, you don't have an influence on the first word. It belongs to the provider. If you could use ANY two words, it wold be a different story.

              ie. TASTY PIZZA


              Thomas
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              • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
                Originally Posted by SirThomas View Post

                Two words are simply less convenient and more difficult to remember. Therefore, it may not have the same viral effect.
                I agree with that. We are able to offer both single or double keyword options for our clients. We built the system in a way that makes double keyword not so bad for businesses/customers, and great for us (which makes it better for customers/businesses).

                For double keyword, the first word is iBuyFrom. So, the second keyword is who they buy from. This helps make it easier to remember. As for convenience, it's not a big deal for texters these days. With older phones, more was a lot worse. Today, no big deal to text in more, especially since they only have to text it one time.

                Our system also helps promote businesses that use the double-keyword. When business ABC has someone join, our website is included in that message. Our website has the other businesses listed. So, business XYZ can benefit from the result of business ABC growing, and vice-versa.

                We also promote our website on the radio and other avenues, so businesses can benefit from growing their list through our advertising efforts.

                If a business wants a single keyword, they can do so with our system, but they miss out on the community aspect of our system. So, they generally end up wanting the double-keyword option.

                However, they can choose to have both. They can get their own single keyword that is tied to our community site. This makes a great upsell alternative if they want it over just having the double-keyword.

                So far, no one has wanted their own single keyword, apart from the community. Only single keyword tied to community or double keyword.
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                • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
                  Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

                  For double keyword, the first word is iBuyFrom. So, the second keyword is who they buy from. This helps make it easier to remember.

                  That's what I was talking about. Having things memorable. Having to text two words is not a problem.

                  In your example, when you have IBUYFROM and then their keyword, it is memorable and make sense. However, when people have their keyword behind some funny 5-6 letter word that have little to do with their own keyword, it becomes less memorable.

                  It was smart of you to pick YOUR main keyword to be in sinc with all keywords created by your customers. Way to go!

                  How much do you charge your clients?


                  Thomas
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                  • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
                    Originally Posted by SirThomas View Post

                    How much do you charge your clients?
                    Thomas
                    It varies depending on different options and we customize to meet different clients needs as applicable. But, basically $99/month.

                    We are selling for $132/month after taxes, plus $50 one-time fee for single keyword, plus $50, one-time fee for QRCode. But, all that is designed to have some room to "give them a deal" and get them to sign up for 3 months at the front. If so, it's basically $99/month for the 3 months.
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                    • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
                      Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post


                      We are selling for $132/month after taxes,
                      How do you compute the tax on your service? Glad you mentioned this, because most people might forget that part...
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                      • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
                        Originally Posted by SirThomas View Post

                        How do you compute the tax on your service? Glad you mentioned this, because most people might forget that part...

                        Just add the appropriate sales tax of your state I would imagine.

                        Sales Tax by State


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                        • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
                          Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

                          Just add the appropriate sales tax of your state I would imagine.

                          Sales Tax by State
                          YesI know that!

                          I was just wondering, if you had to add whole bunch of 'telecom" type of taxes like our cellphone carriers do? But probably not...


                          Thomas
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    I only deal with small businesses and communities with an opt-in system and easy out. Mobile companies have issues with spam. We avoid that by protecting our list and the members know in advance what they are receiving. Verizon wireless has its own application where I can send a text message via smtp. It's included in every wireless card sold. The issues were a big deal back in 2008 when it was costly to receive spam via text.

    Our local amateur radio club which is the first line of defense in an emergency uses this and it has managed to deploy operators more efficiently in emergencies.

    Like everything else, if you abuse it, the door for complaints will swing wide open but for the small business man who is on a budget this is welcomed with open arms.

    The system also has a double opt in option if the user chooses to use it.
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  • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
    Sounds good!

    PS. I got your report and listened to your audio interview. Interesting :-)
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  • Profile picture of the author prosperwithdnb
    Hi Offline man could you offer a sample of your presentation you are currently using.

    Thanks
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  • Profile picture of the author MKBridge
    Well said Richard. This happened on another offline thread with awesome information as well. Enough already.
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    • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
      Originally Posted by MKBridge View Post

      Well said Richard. This happened on another offline thread with awesome information as well. Enough already.
      What is most remarkable is that people project just how everyone in the world is going to react based on what they feel. I'm 59 years old and personally do not like texting. #1 I can't see well enough to reply fast enough and #2 I prefer talking.

      Now with that in mind, I just finished perfecting the code system to my texting program and have offered a report on it free (See SIG) and have been getting nothing but positive feedback from everyone who reads it. For the small business man in a local market, there is nothing better.

      Now this from someone who personally dislikes texting...My friends know to send any texts for me to my wife or if they want a quick response they send it to my 9 year old who can type faster than I can speak...
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  • Profile picture of the author NetMediaGeek
    @ proapc

    Will that platform work in the Uk ?
    Signature
    I'm looking for a JV Broker in the UK
    If you work with local businesses in the UK and want to increase your income PM me..
    If you are a Lead Generator for Offline Businesses in the UK PM Me..
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  • Profile picture of the author scarab
    How could a marketer enter into this business? I have talked to a couple of people while I was halfway thru reading this thread and they are both interested in it NOW!

    I guess my main question as a marketer is how in the wporld do I implement this within a few days? I have looked at several of the vendor sites and I liked the thundertext however what the instructions on setting it up seemed like quite a bit. I have read Proapc's pdf and that looks like a real good affordable approach as well. I like Proapc's idea of making his system a JV or a resell serviceWhat I would like to do is have a backend somewhere in-house or hosted, deliver a qr code to my client so they could their clients to optin.

    I am just tired of chasing the tigers tail. Any good solid information is appreciated. I have proven to myself that in 15 minutes this type of product sells itself but how in the world can I implement at an affordable cost without an incredible amount of labor.

    Thanks
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    • Profile picture of the author rickstopfive
      [QUOTE=scarab;3747981]How could a marketer enter into this business? I have talked to a couple of people while I was halfway thru reading this thread and they are both interested in it NOW!

      I guess my main question as a marketer is how in the wporld do I implement this within a few days? I have looked at several of the vendor sites and I liked the thundertext however what the instructions on setting it up seemed like quite a bit. I have read Proapc's pdf and that looks like a real good affordable approach as well. I like Proapc's idea of making his system a JV or a resell serviceWhat I would like to do is have a backend somewhere in-house or hosted, deliver a qr code to my client so they could their clients to optin.

      I am just tired of chasing the tigers tail. Any good solid information is appreciated. I have proven to myself that in 15 minutes this type of product sells itself but how in the world can I implement at an affordable cost without an incredible amount of labor.

      Thanks[/QUOTE


      Look at Twilio they have a good system and show you how to get your api up and running and they cover all of NA
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    • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
      Originally Posted by scarab View Post

      How could a marketer enter into this business? I have talked to a couple of people while I was halfway thru reading this thread and they are both interested in it NOW!

      I guess my main question as a marketer is how in the world do I implement this within a few days? I have looked at several of the vendor sites and I liked the thundertext however what the instructions on setting it up seemed like quite a bit. I have read Proapc's pdf and that looks like a real good affordable approach as well. I like Proapc's idea of making his system a JV or a resell serviceWhat I would like to do is have a backend somewhere in-house or hosted, deliver a qr code to my client so they could their clients to optin.

      I am just tired of chasing the tigers tail. Any good solid information is appreciated. I have proven to myself that in 15 minutes this type of product sells itself but how in the world can I implement at an affordable cost without an incredible amount of labor.

      Thanks
      There are several questions in your post so I'll try and keep this simple.

      My system is the only system that stands by itself. As a JV, you simply send those who would like to use the system for their own private list and when they make a purchase, you get paid. I install the systems for them and it's ready to go. You can see the details in the PDF or at Coupon Text Express | Facebook

      I just sold a system this morning to a gal in NC and her system is already installed and she is moving it as you read this.

      You can test play with the system I have up at Control Panel USER name = admin PASSWORD = partners

      With my system, you simply create as many lists as you need and then for each list, you generate the html for the sign up form on any webpage or facebook page like Buzz999.com. It's just like setting up an aweber form on a site.

      You would only need my system for 1 of 2 reasons.

      You want to build a local program like I refer to in my report, or you want to make 50% commission instead of 30% like JV's.

      JV's require no purchase to begin marketing.

      You could send someone to Buzz999.com today and they buy the system and I'd have it installed as soon as they send me ftp access.

      It's really that simple.

      Mo
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      • Profile picture of the author scarab
        @propac
        could you email me at [sizzler] AT blog DOT charmasterusa DOT com

        I would like to engage in a conversation with you.
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  • Profile picture of the author soharox
    IS this good business???
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    • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
      Originally Posted by soharox View Post

      IS this good business???
      Go to my website and see what some of my competitors charge.

      Services | S.M.A.R.T Business Solutions
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      • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
        Originally Posted by proapc View Post

        Go to my website and see what some of my competitors charge.

        Services | S.M.A.R.T Business Solutions
        I see the competitor prices. It doesn't look like the comparison is apples-to-apples.

        SMS (SMPP) and SMTP are very different.
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        • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
          Originally Posted by SolidSolutions View Post

          I see the competitor prices. It doesn't look like the comparison is apples-to-apples.

          SMS (SMPP) and SMTP are very different.

          I'm not putting down the SMS system there is a huge market for that but for the small business man that simply does not have the budget for the iziggs of the world, my option is wide open.

          There are only so many people who can afford a Lexus ...

          I'm selling Ford...

          It works...It's cheap and its effective at building business on an economy budget.

          My phone is ringing off the hook here locally. I actually gave up the idea of doing this nationwide. Its that big just in my local market.

          3 years ago there were tons of problems when people were not on unlimited text plans but now the times are different. The average teen does about 3,000 plus texts a month.
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          • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
            SMTP is a bad, BAD way to do mobile marketing business. It's technically illegal, and it goes agains the mobile marketing best practices guidelines. First, read this:

            Academic Review: Mobile MarketingMessaging via SMS Versus SMTP/Email Channels (iLoop) | Mobile Marketing Association

            Notice the graphic at the bottom, it says that commercial traffic is NOT allowed via SMTP channels. And text message marketing falls under the category of commercial traffic.

            Also read this:

            Sending Text Messages Through SMTP Isn’t Worth It :: TextBoard Marketing Blog

            I also suggest anyone wanting to get into text message marketing to read the mobile marketing associations guidelines and best practices:

            Education | Mobile Marketing Association

            Just my two cents
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            • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
              Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

              SMTP is a bad, BAD way to do mobile marketing business. It's technically illegal, and it goes agains the mobile marketing best practices guidelines. First, read this:

              Just my two cents
              "First, it might be illegal. Since these are emails rather than text messages, they are subject to the FTC’s CAN-SPAM Act. If you use SMTP to send unsolicited messages, you can be fined by the FTC for up to $11,000 per message. And because SMTP messages don’t provide an opt-out mechanism as SMS messages do, they usually do qualify as spam under the CAN-SPAM Act."

              IT MIGHT BE...referring to spam

              This is straight from the article you referenced. My program provides opt out from both ends ...right from your phone or online...There is no spam involved...this is all from 2008 when this whole ball of wax was out of control and with that I'm in agreement with you but if it were illegal they would say it was illegal...they are referring to spam not smtp...

              BTW...most school systems use this in their notification system to text parents...
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              • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
                Originally Posted by proapc View Post

                "First, it might be illegal. Since these are emails rather than text messages, they are subject to the FTC's CAN-SPAM Act. If you use SMTP to send unsolicited messages, you can be fined by the FTC for up to $11,000 per message. And because SMTP messages don't provide an opt-out mechanism as SMS messages do, they usually do qualify as spam under the CAN-SPAM Act."

                IT MIGHT BE...referring to spam

                This is straight from the article you referenced. My program provides opt out from both ends ...right from your phone or online...There is no spam involved...this is all from 2008 when this whole ball of wax was out of control and with that I'm in agreement with you but if it were illegal they would say it was illegal...they are referring to spam not smtp...

                BTW...most school systems use this in their notification system to text parents...
                Disregarding the SPAM part of it all, that does not change the fact that commercial traffic is not allowed through SMTP. If the cell phone carriers find out you are using their SMTP gateway for commercial use, could they shut you down? Hell if I know. All I know is it isn't allowed.

                More than likely schools have no problem because they aren't using it as commercial traffic. They don't make a profit off it. I know of a school in my area who does text messaging alerts to parents and kids, but it's not commercial. It would be considered commercial traffic if they were charging the parents and students for this service.

                I bring this up because if a new person is wanting to get into SMS Marketing, don't do it through SMTP. For the person who already has an established business using SMTP, I hope that there are no problems for you in the future.

                I am curious though proapc, when doing this through SMTP, you receive a response through SMTP correct? How do you handle the opt out? Do you just monitor every email that comes in that says STOP then manually remove them? Do you have a cron job that runs a script that opens all incoming emails and sorts through them looking for opt out info?
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            • Profile picture of the author MKBridge
              Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

              I also suggest anyone wanting to get into text message marketing to read the mobile marketing associations guidelines and best practices:

              Education | Mobile Marketing Association
              Does any one know what the membership cost is to join the MMA?
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              • Profile picture of the author zbw777
                It's $1000 for an individual membership. Don't know the benefit of being a member yet, but its good to know that its an option.
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  • Profile picture of the author NetMediaGeek
    @ proapc

    Will that platform work in the Uk ?
    Signature
    I'm looking for a JV Broker in the UK
    If you work with local businesses in the UK and want to increase your income PM me..
    If you are a Lead Generator for Offline Businesses in the UK PM Me..
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  • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
    it should, if you plug-in email addresses for UK based phone companies.

    ie. 1234567890@BTmail.net I just made up that BT email address, but you get the point...


    Thomas


    PS Just found one for T-Mobile UK ------ phonenumber@t-mobile.uk.net
    Vodafone UK-------phonenumber@vodafone.net

    Maurice has to add this to his database and you would be able to send free TEXT (smtp)
    to a given number on T-Mobile UK network
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    • Profile picture of the author manxman
      Originally Posted by SirThomas View Post

      Maurice has to add this to his database and you would be able to send free TEXT (smtp) to a given number on T-Mobile UK network
      I read somewhere that the smtp method has serious disadvantages to the sms method. Comments from those "in the field"?

      @proapc ... Does your system use smtp or sms?

      thanks everyone
      Signature

      Richard
      Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

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      • Profile picture of the author scotth
        Originally Posted by manxman View Post

        I read somewhere that the smtp method has serious disadvantages to the sms method. Comments from those "in the field"?

        @proapc ... Does your system use smtp or sms?

        thanks everyone
        If you send out text messages SMTP your not going to get all to go through they will be blocked...SMTP not the way to go for max Texting..no guarantees all your text will go through SMTP.
        Signature

        Based in Costa Rica Living my life on my terms a expat lifestyle and traveling the world at will. Time Freedom is True Freedom!

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        • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
          Originally Posted by scotth View Post

          If you send out text messages SMTP your not going to get all to go through they will be blocked...SMTP not the way to go for max Texting..no guarantees all your text will go through SMTP.

          That may have been true a couple of years ago and most people I know that say their is no guarantee have heard it from others. I've got lists with up to 1200 people and I have not had any problems at all. Some of my local private clients use the system and they need 100% reach-ability (example the emergency amateur radio club). We have not experienced any dropped messages. We don't spam and we don't text constantly and abuse the system. When used properly you don't experience problems.
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    • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
      Originally Posted by SirThomas View Post

      it should, if you plug-in email addresses for UK based phone companies.

      ie. 1234567890@BTmail.net I just made up that BT email address, but you get the point...


      Thomas


      PS Just found one for T-Mobile UK ------ phonenumber@t-mobile.uk.net
      Vodafone UK-------phonenumber@vodafone.net

      Maurice has to add this to his database and you would be able to send free TEXT (smtp)
      to a given number on T-Mobile UK network
      Let me work on that tonight...I'll add some of these to the databases and we'll test it tomorrow. If anyone else has the carrier email let me know and we'll test this. Right now I have someone doing the program for each country and we'll test t next week or asap.
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  • Profile picture of the author Nick Surran
    Greetings! I've been away from the Warrior Forum for quite some time, probably six or seven years. I gave up my business all those years ago because of health issues, but now I'm ready to get back in the game. I've been lurking around for a week or two now, trying to catch up, at least a little bit, on all the new stuff and ideas.

    Selling SMS marketing services is a business model that has really struck my fancy. I like working with local businesses, and I like recurring income, so I think this is where I'm going to focus my studies. Here are my first few questions, I'm sure there will be more:

    1. Do you keep your service exclusive to one type of client? i.e. one pizza restaurant, one chinese restaurant, etc. I'm not sure if this even matters with this type of service.

    2. Some of you like to manage your clients' campaigns, and some of you like to turn it over to the client. I see positives to both of these...is anyone using a hybrid approach? For example, you create a scheduled, weekly campaign but still give the client the ability to log on and send an impromptu message on a slow day. This would ensure that the system is being used yet still give your client a little control also.

    Thanks,

    Nick
    Signature

    I think Lime Cellular is the best white label SMS marketing platform.

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    • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
      In answer to your questions Iolaus:

      1. I offer it to every single local business around, every business has a need for it, we just need to find out how best to utilize sms marketing for different businesses.

      2. I prefer to manage all my clients campaigns. Mainly because when you turn the campaigns over to your clients, they aren't as familiar with the minor details of SMS Marketing. Including, but not limited to: The most effective time of day to send out a text, and the wording and quality of a text.
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      • Profile picture of the author Nick Surran
        Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

        In answer to your questions Iolaus:

        1. I offer it to every single local business around, every business has a need for it, we just need to find out how best to utilize sms marketing for different businesses.
        Thank-you for the reply, FreeBird85. I understand every business can use it and didn't mean to suggest narrowing my focus to only pizza restaurants, but what I meant is, once you've contracted with a pizza restaurant, will you contract with a second one. Has anyone asked you to be your only pizza restaurant client?
        2. I prefer to manage all my clients campaigns. Mainly because when you turn the campaigns over to your clients, they aren't as familiar with the minor details of SMS Marketing. Including, but not limited to: The most effective time of day to send out a text, and the wording and quality of a text.
        As I'm just learning myself, can you recommend any resources/articles/etc. that will allow me to begin learning these minor details. I understand a lot of learning these details will come from testing.

        Thanks,

        Nick
        Signature

        I think Lime Cellular is the best white label SMS marketing platform.

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        • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
          Originally Posted by Iolaus View Post

          Thank-you for the reply, FreeBird85. I understand every business can use it and didn't mean to suggest narrowing my focus to only pizza restaurants, but what I meant is, once you've contracted with a pizza restaurant, will you contract with a second one. Has anyone asked you to be your only pizza restaurant client?

          As I'm just learning myself, can you recommend any resources/articles/etc. that will allow me to begin learning these minor details. I understand a lot of learning these details will come from testing.

          Thanks,

          Nick
          I will sign up every pizza place in the area, even if they are all on the same block. I'm not limiting my company by only signing up one of each kind of business. That's just bad business on my end.

          I don't have any articles or resources available for you, I apologize. It all comes with some experience. Learn as you go. Read everything on these forums, and whatever else you can find on the web.
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          • Profile picture of the author Izesta
            Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

            I will sign up every pizza place in the area, even if they are all on the same block. I'm not limiting my company by only signing up one of each kind of business. That's just bad business on my end.

            I don't have any articles or resources available for you, I apologize. It all comes with some experience. Learn as you go. Read everything on these forums, and whatever else you can find on the web.


            Also, not even close to the level of profit you would need to give anyone exclusivity. The service is too common to give exclusives. It would be akin to Yellow Pages only allowing one restaurant on the block to advertise.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    Yes we do...But with our customers, they signed up because they wanted to be on the list. We have not had one opt out in 3 weeks now, We;ve had a few self opt out. We're not see these problems ...we're doing just fine. Just like email, you get s few opt out here and there but over all it's been fun actually. People are actually giddy over the discounts some of the merchants are giving We keep it local and we keep it fun, Good night...time to crash.
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  • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
    It's important to check closely with local requirements.

    Some have sales tax that might not apply to "services". Some have gross receipts tax which apply to "everything". Some have different tax rates for different "transactions".

    It's also good idea to check into good legal structure for agreements with businesses and possible LLC so you can protect yourself.
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  • Profile picture of the author TheLocalCoach
    I own a restaurant and I'm also a VP with a White Label SMS provider. Would be happy to help answer questions related to either!

    Yes, it works quite well in restaurants, and many other types of business. The technology, however, is only as good as someone can figure out how to use it! I am constantly surprised by how little basic marketing principles are applied to SMS marketing. An example is that most businesses think one Keyword is sufficient.

    But are all your customers the same? If I'm a restaurant, do I want the grandmother who was in for lunch yesterday to get a text promoting the Miller Lite girls promotion in my bar tonight? Grandma will opt out faster than you can say Chicken Marsala! Creating multiple segments in your customer base, with Keywords and Groups, is just one example of how to make this technology work smartly for you.

    I have a PDF that provides about 15 questions anyone should get answered before they choose an SMS provider. I'm happy share.
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  • Profile picture of the author scarab
    Could be so kind to post a link to the pdf?
    I would be very interested in reading the questions and learning.
    Thanks
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  • Profile picture of the author kona
    I recently bought a click bank product called Local Mobile Monopoly. It sells for aprox $75. At first I was really impressed with the training. But after the excitement went away I started to realize the prices they said you should charge seemed a bit high. They suggest you charge $500 to $1000 per month.

    After reading the posts here do you think that is unreasonable? I was on their webinar this evening and it turned into a pitch fest for a high end coaching program for $695 for 8 months.

    I'm still looking for anyone who is really making money at sms mobile marketing. I know it is successful as I have read some of the case studies too. But as someone mentioned any business can Google sms marketing and find a company charging from $19/month to $47/month for the starter packages. It took me a whole hour to figure out you can do this by yourself and don't need a "consultant" charging $500 plus per month.

    Thank you in advance for all who can help me out here. Is this a real opportunity to sell to local businesses?
    Mike
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    • Profile picture of the author Steven Carl Kelly
      Originally Posted by kona View Post

      I recently bought a click bank product called Local Mobile Monopoly. It sells for aprox $75. At first I was really impressed with the training. But after the excitement went away I started to realize the prices they said you should charge seemed a bit high. They suggest you charge $500 to $1000 per month.
      Our experience tells me that's too much in most cases, but it certainly depends on which sorts of clients you're after. Pizza joints aren't likely to pay $1,000 a month for SMS marketing.

      We charge a setup fee of $497 per account, and the monthly fee is based on the size of the list. I don't want to be too specific here, but we get a little under $150 a month for 250 list members, and then an add-on fee for each additional 100 list members.

      Originally Posted by kona View Post

      But as someone mentioned any business can Google sms marketing and find a company charging from $19/month to $47/month for the starter packages. It took me a whole hour to figure out you can do this by yourself and don't need a "consultant" charging $500 plus per month.
      Most businesses owners we encounter don't even think to search Google for SMS text marketing providers. Most business owners don't understand the technology, and they don't know what they need to know to make it work. They need someone to hold their hand, and we're there to do that.
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      • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
        Originally Posted by Steven Carl Kelly View Post

        Our experience tells me that's too much in most cases, but it certainly depends on which sorts of clients you're after. Pizza joints aren't likely to pay $1,000 a month for SMS marketing.

        We charge a setup fee of $497 per account, and the monthly fee is based on the size of the list. I don't want to be too specific here, but we get a little under $150 a month for 250 list members, and then an add-on fee for each additional 100 list members.



        Most businesses owners we encounter don't even think to search Google for SMS text marketing providers. Most business owners don't understand the technology, and they don't know what they need to know to make it work. They need someone to hold their hand, and we're there to do that.
        I'm right on point with him. I charge just a bit less than he does for a startup fee.

        As for the monthly, I charge roughly what he does, just under 150 a month for up to a certain number of outgoing messages, then i charge per outgoing text after that, instead of by subscriber like he does.

        Looks lilke we're pretty much right on point with eachother :p
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    • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
      Originally Posted by kona View Post

      I recently bought a click bank product called Local Mobile Monopoly. It sells for aprox $75. At first I was really impressed with the training. But after the excitement went away I started to realize the prices they said you should charge seemed a bit high. They suggest you charge $500 to $1000 per month.

      After reading the posts here do you think that is unreasonable? I was on their webinar this evening and it turned into a pitch fest for a high end coaching program for $695 for 8 months.

      I'm still looking for anyone who is really making money at sms mobile marketing. I know it is successful as I have read some of the case studies too. But as someone mentioned any business can Google sms marketing and find a company charging from $19/month to $47/month for the starter packages. It took me a whole hour to figure out you can do this by yourself and don't need a "consultant" charging $500 plus per month.

      Thank you in advance for all who can help me out here. Is this a real opportunity to sell to local businesses?
      Mike
      #1 Mike...Look at all the new warriors coming here claiming to be an expert. They are here for one purpose only, to market their new service. I've see this over the years where a warrior will start a new membership here and then go about promoting their new venture and build themselves as an expert in the field.

      You hit it on the nail head when you talked about "cost" ...

      It's always about the money ....

      I work in my local market and keep it simple. If you want to get into the mobile business, offer something people can afford. Offer something comparable to local newspaper advertising at a lower price. You'll hear all the SMS third party affiliates talk trash about SMTP as they earn their small percentages but in reality, when you compare all the alternatives, price advantage will always be more profitable than anything else on the market.

      I offer a service that is affordable, effective and trackable. This is the triple crown in offline marketing.
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      • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
        Originally Posted by proapc View Post

        #1 Mike...Look at all the new warriors coming here claiming to be an expert. They are here for one purpose only, to market their new service. I've see this over the years where a warrior will start a new membership here and then go about promoting their new venture and build themselves as an expert in the field.

        You hit it on the nail head when you talked about "cost" ...

        It's always about the money ....

        I work in my local market and keep it simple. If you want to get into the mobile business, offer something people can afford. Offer something comparable to local newspaper advertising at a lower price. You'll hear all the SMS third party affiliates talk trash about SMTP as they earn their small percentages but in reality, when you compare all the alternatives, price advantage will always be more profitable than anything else on the market.

        I offer a service that is affordable, effective and trackable. This is the triple crown in offline marketing.

        The only reason there's any 'trash talking' about using SMTP is because commercial traffic is NOT ALLOWED to be delivered to a user mobile device via the SMTP channel. That is according to the Mobile Marketing Assocation and the mobile carriers. It's for this reason I suggest people wanting to get into sms marketing not to use SMTP as the method to deliver their texts. Especially if they are wanting to expand their business and become big, because it IS possible for them to be shut down for sending commercial traffic through the SMTP channel.
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        • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
          Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

          The only reason there's any 'trash talking' about using SMTP is because commercial traffic is NOT ALLOWED to be delivered to a user mobile device via the SMTP channel. That is according to the Mobile Marketing Assocation and the mobile carriers. It's for this reason I suggest people wanting to get into sms marketing not to use SMTP as the method to deliver their texts. Especially if they are wanting to expand their business and become big, because it IS possible for them to be shut down for sending commercial traffic through the SMTP channel.

          I've heard this now from several others yet NOT ONE can tell me when this has ever happened nor why 90% of the school systems in the US are using SMTP in notifications of activities deemed important to immediately notify parents. SPAM is SPAM and this is not spam. People opt in and know what they are opting in for. When I had a Verizon Mobile wireless card, They gave me an admin area online where I could send text messages via smtp.

          I could easily send you a text message by email by typing your phone number @ your carriers email text address. E.G. 1234567890@Vtext.com.

          Since 2008 can you list ONE example of a company or business being shut down?
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          • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
            Originally Posted by proapc View Post

            I've heard this now from several others yet NOT ONE can tell me when this has ever happened nor why 90% of the school systems in the US are using SMTP in notifications of activities deemed important to immediately notify parents. SPAM is SPAM and this is not spam. People opt in and know what they are opting in for. When I had a Verizon Mobile wireless card, They gave me an admin area online where I could send text messages via smtp.

            I could easily send you a text message by email by typing your phone number @ your carriers email text address. E.G. 1234567890@Vtext.com.

            Since 2008 can you list ONE example of a company or business being shut down?
            I have not found any companies that have been shut down for this reason. Does this mean it won't happen? No. Maybe they won't get shut down, maybe the business owner will wake up one morning with a hefty fine for violating terms. I look at it this way, just because it's occurring right now without any repercussions, does not mean there won't be any in the future. Take a look at online poker, how long was that available in the united states where millions of people were doing it every day for YEARS. And all of a sudden last week EVERYTHING gets shut down. No more online poker. I say again, just because there's no current repercussions at the moment, doesn't mean there won't be some nasty surprises for business owners in the future for violating terms.

            As for the schools. Maybe I'm wrong, but schools notifying parents of activities may not fall under the category of commercial traffic. And if it is considered commerical traffic, they may be in for a nasty surprise down the road as well.

            What I'm trying to get across to new people who are wanting to get started in offering sms marketing, do it the right way. Just because there's no problem now, doesn't mean there won't be major problems down the road.
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            • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
              Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

              What I'm trying to get across to new people who are wanting to get started in offering sms marketing, do it the right way. Just because there's no problem now, doesn't mean there won't be major problems down the road.
              Who says the right way is SMS. Most small businesses cannot afford SMS. If I owned a restaurant and had all my customers sign up to receive text messages and they signed up listing their # and carrier and I entered them in my email client, I'm sending an email to their text phone. If it were illegal, there would be a law against it. What you say is the right way is merely the expensive way. Do you have any idea what these 90210 companies are paying to send text messages to subscribers? Practically nothing. I don't know about your plan but I pay $20 a month for unlimited texting...I could send 10 or 10,000,000...same price. I wish you the best selling the imported luxury cars. I'll stick to offering quality convenience and value for the money.
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              • Profile picture of the author xlfutur1
                Originally Posted by proapc View Post

                Who says the right way is SMS. Most small businesses cannot afford SMS. If I owned a restaurant and had all my customers sign up to receive text messages and they signed up listing their # and carrier and I entered them in my email client, I'm sending an email to their text phone. If it were illegal, there would be a law against it. What you say is the right way is merely the expensive way. Do you have any idea what these 90210 companies are paying to send text messages to subscribers? Practically nothing. I don't know about your plan but I pay $20 a month for unlimited texting...I could send 10 or 10,000,000...same price. I wish you the best selling the imported luxury cars. I'll stick to offering quality convenience and value for the money.
                I believe the problem with SMTP is with the wireless carriers themselves. They don't want SMTP traffic being sent through their systems. The more they get, the more they will just filter it out. Could be OK for awhile, but you don't want a business owner getting very little of their messages delivered, then wondering why and wanting an explanation.

                This page explains is pretty well...

                SMS, SMPP, and SMTP - Best Text Marketing

                specifically.."SMTP is able to work through a loophole in the regulated system that allows for text marketing companies to use this as a way of sending unlimited text marketing. Deliveries of SMTP text messages are sketchy at best and wireless carriers are constantly shutting these gateways down. Text message marketing companies utilizing SMTP text messaging services can be fined from the FTC along with the text message providers themselves."
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                • Profile picture of the author manxman
                  @Maurice

                  I hear what you are saying, but I see so many warnings out there about SMTP. Here is an example. (note the reference to commercial traffic)

                  From the Mobile Marketing Association's Consumer Best Practices Guidelines:

                  Carriers, at their discretion, make available SMTP gateways so that subscribers may receive SMS messages originated via email. Example: A mobile subscriber can be reached by sending an email (SMTP) message to [10 digit number]@[carrierdomainname].com. The carriers that support such gateways do so with the intent that they are not utilized for any commercial traffic. To that end, carriers actively monitor and filter against these connections to protect subscribers from unsolicited messages (spam) and utilize a variety of mechanisms to do so, including spam keyword filters, throttling against questionable domain or IP addresses suspected of abuse, and the like.

                  No Such Thing as Free SMS Text Messaging | MobileMarketingProfits.com | Build Your Business with Mobile Marketing
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                  Richard
                  Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

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              • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
                Originally Posted by proapc View Post

                Who says the right way is SMS. Most small businesses cannot afford SMS. If I owned a restaurant and had all my customers sign up to receive text messages and they signed up listing their # and carrier and I entered them in my email client, I'm sending an email to their text phone. If it were illegal, there would be a law against it. What you say is the right way is merely the expensive way. Do you have any idea what these 90210 companies are paying to send text messages to subscribers? Practically nothing. I don't know about your plan but I pay $20 a month for unlimited texting...I could send 10 or 10,000,000...same price. I wish you the best selling the imported luxury cars. I'll stick to offering quality convenience and value for the money.

                Who says the right way? The FTC, MMA, Cell Providers (Sprint, Verizon, T Mobile, etc etc). That's who says. I would think these are the people you would want to be listening to.

                Most small businesses CAN afford sms. I don't use short code companies. I built my own platform using long codes. And it is affordable for businesses. I'm not a lawyer, so I don't know the exact technicality, but SMTP traffic for commerical use is against terms of service. If that makes it illegal I don't know. But it is against terms of service.
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                • Profile picture of the author manxman
                  Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

                  Most small businesses CAN afford sms. I don't use short code companies. I built my own platform using long codes.
                  some articles that I have found "suggest" that only short codes are true SMS. I take it you disagree, and that there are companies out there using regular 10 digit phone numbers to let my potential clients connect to true SMS messaging.
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                  • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
                    Originally Posted by manxman View Post

                    some articles that I have found "suggest" that only short codes are true SMS. I take it you disagree, and that there are companies out there using regular 10 digit phone numbers to let my potential clients connect to true SMS messaging.
                    I don't know what you mean by "true" sms? Do you text from your cell phone? It has a 10 digit number right?

                    I built my sms platform using Twilio to handle incoming and outgoing text messages.
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                    • Profile picture of the author mavericx
                      Well, I just spent a lot of time reading this whole thread....thanks to everyone for all the input.

                      I still have questions, but at least I have a base to start on.

                      Looking forward to getting more info.

                      OfflineMan - Go ahead and put me on the list for your upcoming WSO and shoot me a review copy!! lol.
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                  • Profile picture of the author TheLocalCoach
                    Originally Posted by manxman View Post

                    some articles that I have found "suggest" that only short codes are true SMS. I take it you disagree, and that there are companies out there using regular 10 digit phone numbers to let my potential clients connect to true SMS messaging.
                    Long Codes are true SMS, like Short Codes.
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              • Profile picture of the author zbw777
                Originally Posted by proapc View Post

                If it were illegal, there would be a law against it.
                Technically speaking there is a law against it. It's called the Can-Spam Act. Since you are using them SMTP protocol it is considered email. If the message you are sending is considered commercial it must follow the Can-Spam Act guidelines.

                The biggest guideline that can't be follow in a text message is this (Straight from FTC website):

                Tell recipients where you're located. Your message must include your valid physical postal address. This can be your current street address, a post office box you've registered with the U.S. Postal Service, or a private mailbox you've registered with a commercial mail receiving agency established under Postal Service regulations.
                As a result of not following the Can-Spam Guidelines you can be liable for penalties of up to $16,000 per violation.

                In regards to the comment, why do Schools do it. Can-Spam has a specific clause for non commercial messages. Therefore they would be exempt.

                And the argument, "well name someone who has been caught" is not a solid business argument. Trust me as this grows, it will only take one or two of the right people to get there nose out of joint and the FTC will be looking at this. I'd rather not be the example they set.
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          • Profile picture of the author bryson
            Originally Posted by proapc View Post

            I've heard this now from several others yet NOT ONE can tell me when this has ever happened nor why 90% of the school systems in the US are using SMTP in notifications of activities deemed important to immediately notify parents. SPAM is SPAM and this is not spam. People opt in and know what they are opting in for. When I had a Verizon Mobile wireless card, They gave me an admin area online where I could send text messages via smtp.

            I could easily send you a text message by email by typing your phone number @ your carriers email text address. E.G. 1234567890 at Vtext.c0m.

            Since 2008 can you list ONE example of a company or business being shut down?
            Not bashing your business model and I am just interested in feedback. What is everyones response to these?

            hxxp://support.vzwc0m/information/smtp_shutdown.html
            or
            hxxp://howardforums.c0m/showthread.php/1713843-Email-to-TXT...-SMS-Gateway-stopped-working-Not-supported-now
            or
            hxxp://community.sprint.c0m/baw/message/269014

            xx=tt and 0=o

            Looks like there are some issues with SMTP to text. But so far I have not found a single case of a business being shut down (and I am quite good at researching on Google). I guess there is some risk associated with using smtp for your text message business. But my view is all business has risk and it all comes down to your personal comfort level.

            I did not find anything on AT&T about restricted use for email to text.
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            • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
              Originally Posted by bryson View Post

              hxxp://support.vzwc0m/information/smtp_shutdown.html
              or
              hxxp://howardforums.c0m/showthread.php/1713843-Email-to-TXT...-SMS-Gateway-stopped-working-Not-supported-now
              or
              hxxp://community.sprint.c0m/baw/message/269014

              xx=tt and 0=o
              I checked out the references above and there has to be a simpler issue here.

              For example, with Verizon the question was asked in the article...
              When will the service be shut down?
              Verizon Wireless has scheduled the SMTP Mail Relay Service to be shut down during the day of Saturday, August 29th, 2009.

              This was a relay service for those who were trying to send emails when logged into the verizon network. I remember when they were having problems, This has never affected the mms gateways.

              I've decided to stay out of discussions here about my program simply because there are others who are so programmed by the system and will do their best to attack any systems that crosses the mainstream. I chose to not get involved with a system that pays the big companies huge profits and I am left with a small piece. I chose to develop something that I can offer any small business and make money with it at the same time.

              I've actually been working a local program with mom an pop businesses that has exceeded the circulation of our local paper in readability...

              The question everyone should ask themselves is who do you want to work for? An sms company that takes 90% of the money leaving you doing all the work or would you like to cut out the company and make 100% of the profit.

              I've not had one issue in 3 years of working my software and the last 8 months have seen an 800% increase in business...
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        • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
          Originally Posted by FreeBird85 View Post

          The only reason there's any 'trash talking' about using SMTP is because commercial traffic is NOT ALLOWED to be delivered to a user mobile device via the SMTP channel. That is according to the Mobile Marketing Assocation and the mobile carriers. It's for this reason I suggest people wanting to get into sms marketing not to use SMTP as the method to deliver their texts. Especially if they are wanting to expand their business and become big, because it IS possible for them to be shut down for sending commercial traffic through the SMTP channel.
          Well over 2 years has passed since this thread was started and over 4 years now since my text program was released. If you Google YadaText, you'll not find one complaint.

          ALSO..Last week we talked to Verizon technical support when one of our customers complained he was not receiving his coupon alerts. Verizon advised us to have the customer go into their "MyVerizon" support section on the website and make sure the box was checked to receive text alerts received from email.

          All this crap about commercial verses non-commercial is nonsense. With unlimited messaging, the only loud mouths who are complaining are the associations and we all know why. They promote the services that charge ridiculous monthly and per minute charges knowing that for the small business man, what I have to offer is affordable and viable.

          Go into your online account with your provider and see where you have the option to turn on or off any text messages sent by email. It's there for a reason. A lot of people are using it. I just wrote a program for a hotel website where the hotel manage can receive a notice by text every time a room is reserved online.

          I think by now after 2 years, some of you are starting to realize the issue is spam and not SMTP email to text marketing. My program is not designed for spam just like AWeber. And I wish people would stop saying SMTP is ILLEGAL when there is no such law against it enacted in this country.

          Responsible Email to text programs work, are inexpensive and my program is used by hundreds of small businesses across the US everyday.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
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    • Profile picture of the author TheLocalCoach
      Kona Mike,
      Back in the early days of Internet Marketing, anyone with half a brain could become a Millionaire (I wasn't one of those- but I still get hundreds of emails from some of those guys selling each others products!). The Mobile gold rush is well under way, and yes, some people are making lots of money, but the window of opportunity will narrow, and then it will be the people adding the most value who will survive. I already see the SMS market being commoditized with price-shoppers, and I see lots of people jumping into this (on a white label basis) and thinking they can throw up a logo, generate some traffic and convert hundreds of small businesses. We see the most success from the people who are adding some kind of value to the process, teaching people who to use the technology and coming up with creative ways to interact and build relationships with customers via SMS. Many small business owners still don't know much about the technology, nor how to employ it to their advantage. Its not that difficult to get a small business to sign up with some kind of free trial or low price intro deal, but getting them to stick with it once they start building a list and sending thousands of SMS messages is another thing. That's where the rubber meets the road. There's plenty of opportunity for those who approach this journey smartly, good luck with yours!
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  • Profile picture of the author Steven Carl Kelly
    There's room for debate and SMTP text marketing might be OK with some people, but it certainly isn't for us and I would never recommend it as a method for my clients or our partners.
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  • Profile picture of the author zabereu
    Hey can one show or give me an idea how this exact system works . This seems to be the hottest topic in I.M right now
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  • Profile picture of the author zbw777
    I know this thread got a little off topic. But to summarize. Yes it does work to offer text messaging to small businesses. I'm doing it now. And I still haven't settled on the perfect solution technology wise, but I've got a couple that are good enough to make me money now, and that's important.

    Get started, and get momentum. That's the hardest part
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  • Profile picture of the author Ayekami
    There is a mobile marketing product at click bank,i personally did not used that product but did heard some good reviews about it.

    Transport services in Dubai
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  • Profile picture of the author shadowboxa
    Hey. I think its great in the right circumstances. However SMS is a VERY personal medium, not like an email for example. Needs to be well warranted and not very often.
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  • Profile picture of the author zbw777
    Comparing Groupon to Text Marketing is like comparing apples and oranges. Groupon is basically mass media in deal form, where text marketing is a recapture/followup system. It drives loyalty over time if done properly and taken to the next level turns into a form of social communication.

    Text Marketing doesn't have to be just about sending coupons. It can include polls, contests, appointment reminders. Hell it can even be used as a chat solution when combined with a text to screen solution.

    Both have their place, but shouldnt be compared against each other as interchangeable.
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    • Profile picture of the author TheLocalCoach
      Originally Posted by zbw777 View Post

      Comparing Groupon to Text Marketing is like comparing apples and oranges. Groupon is basically mass media in deal form, where text marketing is a recapture/followup system. It drives loyalty over time if done properly and taken to the next level turns into a form of social communication.

      Text Marketing doesn't have to be just about sending coupons. It can include polls, contests, appointment reminders. Hell it can even be used as a chat solution when combined with a text to screen solution.

      Both have their place, but shouldnt be compared against each other as interchangeable.
      Great description of the differences. I own a restaurant and Groupon (and the like) is an extremely expensive option to get new customers at a loss. SMS is less effective at bringing in new customers, but is great for building relationships, interacting with customers and increasing frequency of customer visits.

      We do run a great promotion on Thursdays, where 1 in every 4 customers (who text-to-play) wins a Free Dessert. We promote this online and in print and we get new customers coming in to try and Text-to-Win. More details at my website, EatDrinkText.
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      • Profile picture of the author SolidSolutions
        Originally Posted by EatDrinkTextJay View Post

        SMS is less effective at bringing in new customers
        I see your point, and tend to agree in some ways...like you are probably indicating.

        However, SMS can be better at bringing in new customers. Consider this scenario: I'm with friends and get a groupon coupon, nothing changes. I'm with friends and I get a text message with a coupon to a place I want to get coupons from, a lot can change.

        Our service also promotes our website every time a message from any business gets sent. Our website has other businesses listed. So when I am at ABC and see their text club and join, I'll find out about this website which can lead me to other businesses.
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      • Profile picture of the author FreeBird85
        Originally Posted by EatDrinkTextJay View Post

        SMS is less effective at bringing in new customers
        I disagree. My experience is when somebody receives a coupon through text, they will forward it to their friends. Who may in turn forward it to their friends. So you have these new customers now. When they come into the establishment they will opt in. When these new customers receive an sms, the cycle is repeated.
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        • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
          I often do deals where they can only get their discount if they bring a friend, then when the friend comes in... we get them signed up on the sms list as well and create a new loyal customer!
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  • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
    Hey guys I just got back from a business trip! Hope all is well! I have been bombarded with questions about sms and I am trying to get everything sorted out. Jodi bennet will be hosting a free webinar with me so we can try and answer all your questions at once if anyone is interested check out my sig!
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  • Profile picture of the author mygold
    It depends on owner of the organization, if he think I will be exceptional from other than other than he will not charge for sms ultimately he will face new customer for his additional service and have to say this offer but not applying charge.
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  • Profile picture of the author Moneyerr
    SMS marketing really works for local/country wide marketing and increases the traffic to your business. Now a days, mobile operator companies are offering many affordable packages for SMS marketing. They send the text message to thousands of their mobile users in a very low price which is easily afforded by small
    businesses.
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    • Profile picture of the author fernandoescobar
      We've taken a more simple approach at bagging this elephant. Once we built a decent number of subscribers, we approach a restaurant (for that specific list) and do a sample blast with a specific offer that the biz owner has approved. Once he sees that the SMS blast has increased his traffic significantly, we charge $100 and up per blast depending on the number of SMS sent.

      That's just what has worked for us,
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      • Profile picture of the author MKBridge
        Originally Posted by fernandoescobar View Post

        We've taken a more simple approach at bagging this elephant. Once we built a decent number of subscribers, we approach a restaurant (for that specific list) and do a sample blast with a specific offer that the biz owner has approved. Once he sees that the SMS blast has increased his traffic significantly, we charge $100 and up per blast depending on the number of SMS sent.

        That's just what has worked for us,
        Another warrior has been doing a similar method with success as well. Can you elaborate on how you get people to become subscribers please? What kind of incentives do you offer, who do you target and how do you approach them? Thanks MK
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    We offer our local businesses 30 days free with one or 2 texts per week depending on the plan they choose. ($60 month for 1 text per week or $90 month for 2 text messages per week). They also agree to put our Facebook address on the back of their receipts or hand out business cards which say "FREE Local Coupons" and our page http://Buzz999.com The Buzz999.com is sort of catchy and most people remember it since it is the #1 Rock & Roll station in the country 99.9 FM

    PS: For those of you who have either PM'd me or emailed me and asked for a detailed explanation more than the PDF download, I will catch up this week. This has been a busy first week since releasing the text software.
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  • Profile picture of the author modernfurniture
    Banned
    [DELETED]
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    • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
      Originally Posted by modernfurniture View Post

      Interesting. Can be more cost effective than SMS keywords, though with the latter you can reach pretty much all cell phone users, not only the ones with internet access.
      It does not matter if you have internet access or not. If your phone is capable of receiving text messages, you can be a part of any text program.
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      • Profile picture of the author andwings2go
        Originally Posted by proapc View Post

        It does not matter if you have internet access or not. If your phone is capable of receiving text messages, you can be a part of any text program.
        Therein lies the problem with SMTP, many people are not aware that their phone has it's own email address. Most wireless providers don't even mention it anymore because it is simply the avenue by which they deliver MMS (picture and video messages). If a wireless customer requests that internet be blocked on a particular handset (a child's phone), MMS will NOT be delivered but SMS always will.

        Wireless providers want to sell internet and e-mail to every customer, your SMTP messages are being slid under the door using the free internet access that every 2G phone and newer has access to, specifically for MMS delivery. All wireless carriers explicitly forbid what you are doing.

        I won't say all is doom and gloom, or that you will get a crazy fine for each text, but eventually one of the carriers (ATT or Verizon most likely) will notice the large amount of SMTP messages coming from your IP, and block you. Done. Over. They may even block your ISP altogether for good measure and notify other carriers of the leak.
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        • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
          Originally Posted by andwings2go View Post

          Therein lies the problem with SMTP, many people are not aware that their phone has it's own email address. Most wireless providers don't even mention it anymore because it is simply the avenue by which they deliver MMS (picture and video messages). If a wireless customer requests that internet be blocked on a particular handset (a child's phone), MMS will NOT be delivered but SMS always will.

          Wireless providers want to sell internet and e-mail to every customer, your SMTP messages are being slid under the door using the free internet access that every 2G phone and newer has access to, specifically for MMS delivery. All wireless carriers explicitly forbid what you are doing.

          I won't say all is doom and gloom, or that you will get a crazy fine for each text, but eventually one of the carriers (ATT or Verizon most likely) will notice the large amount of SMTP messages coming from your IP, and block you. Done. Over. They may even block your ISP altogether for good measure and notify other carriers of the leak.
          This would have a bit of logic if I were static. I can actually log on with a Verizon wireless card and access my system from a McDonalds and send out a blast any time.

          I know of at least 6 major school system and over 40 radio clubs that use the smtp system. When I was issued my wireless card from Verizon, I received instructions on how to send texts through the admin panel of the online manager which was a smtp system from which I developed my own code.

          If you are going to be critical at least research your comment for accuracy. President Obama and about 300 politicians are using the smtp system and have been since early 2008.
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          • Profile picture of the author andwings2go
            Originally Posted by proapc View Post

            This would have a bit of logic if I were static. I can actually log on with a Verizon wireless card and access my system from a McDonalds and send out a blast any time.

            I know of at least 6 major school system and over 40 radio clubs that use the smtp system. When I was issued my wireless card from Verizon, I received instructions on how to send texts through the admin panel of the online manager which was a smtp system from which I developed my own code.

            If you are going to be critical at least research your comment for accuracy. President Obama and about 300 politicians are using the smtp system and have been since early 2008.
            Cool Story Bro. You are aware that you aren't doing things on the up and up. Perhaps you shouldn't sell your services to warriors under the illusion that you are on the up and up. References to what schools or government does with SMTP is moot, and you have been told why. Develop your own code, do what you will...the carriers will find you. They can decide that no SMTP is allowed to be received from the state of Idaho. That is all I have to say about that.
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            • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
              Originally Posted by andwings2go View Post

              Cool Story Bro. You are aware that you aren't doing things on the up and up. Perhaps you shouldn't sell your services to warriors under the illusion that you are on the up and up. References to what schools or government does with SMTP is moot, and you have been told why. Develop your own code, do what you will...the carriers will find you. They can decide that no SMTP is allowed to be received from the state of Idaho. That is all I have to say about that.
              What I don't understand is that no one on this forum has produced any documentation saying that smtp is illegal. Every day there is a new WSO offering some black hat method for doing this or a button that imitates a like button on facebook or some other method that utilizes the system for benefit.

              You have posted 7 times in your whole membership and somehow, what I do has irritated you. If you are selling the hugely over priced SMS services out there and making pennies from it then go for it but until I read that what I am doing is violating the law, I prefer to offer reasonably priced services that anyone can afford.
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        • Profile picture of the author bryson
          Originally Posted by andwings2go View Post

          I won't say all is doom and gloom, or that you will get a crazy fine for each text, but eventually one of the carriers (ATT or Verizon most likely) will notice the large amount of SMTP messages coming from your IP, and block you. Done. Over. They may even block your ISP altogether for good measure and notify other carriers of the leak.
          A proxy server will take care of this issue quite nicely.
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  • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
    Yah like most phones can accept or send text messages... just if you put links in your messages to a website they won't be able to go to it obviously if they don't have a data plan or internet...

    I often do text to website or fanpage...
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  • Profile picture of the author chrise
    @OfflineMan - Please can you respond to my PM

    Thanks,

    Chris
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  • Profile picture of the author OfflineMan
    @ Chris

    Hey there I had sent you an email just replied! thanks
    Roger
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    • Profile picture of the author pclintcarter
      Long time lurker here but I'm in the planning stages of starting my own mobile site design and SMS marketing business.

      Here's a thought I just had and you guys/gals tell me what you think.

      I'm a big fan of Bob Serling and his licensing techniques. Essentially all the marketing campaigns he runs are "zero risk" in the sense that he takes 20% of the increased revenue that his campaigns bring his clients. So if the campaigns don't bring in money, he doesn't get paid. The client is literally risking nothing.

      So here's my idea. When offering SMS services to clients, pitch it to them as "performance based" and "zero risk" while taking 20% of the increased revenue that the SMS campaigns bring in.

      For example, you sign up a restaurant as an SMS client. In the first month, the increased revenue due to SMS coupons or whatever equals $5,000. You bring in $1,000 as your 20%! Or even better, you help them bring in $10,000 in additional revenue in a month and you take your share...a whopping $2,000.

      Now, just from reading this thread it seems like this is much, much more than what most people are charging their SMS clients.

      But think about it. You have positioned the service to your client as risk-free and dependent upon the performance of what you're offering them. Which it is. If they don't make money, you as the consultant don't get paid.

      It just seems to me that if you're helping to provide thousands of dollars in extra revenue each month for your clients, then charging $100/month is really understating the value you're providing. My assumption, which may be wrong, is that most small business owners would be more than willing to pay you $1k-$2k if you're bringing them $5k-$10k in money they wouldn't have otherwise had.

      Obviously, using this type of pricing structure would necessitate you, the consultant, having control over the campaigns.

      So, what say ye? Would y'all consider this type of pricing structure a rip-off considering implementing SMS campaigns is relatively cheap or a win-win for both consultant and client?

      IMO, it all comes down to how you position the service to your clients and showing them the value you're providing to their bottom line.

      P.S. Sorry for the long-winded post. Just thought I'd throw it out there for some feedback.

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      • Profile picture of the author scarab
        Originally Posted by pclintcarter View Post

        Long time lurker here but I'm in the planning stages of starting my own mobile site design and SMS marketing business.

        Here's a thought I just had and you guys/gals tell me what you think.

        I'm a big fan of Bob Serling and his licensing techniques. Essentially all the marketing campaigns he runs are "zero risk" in the sense that he takes 20% of the increased revenue that his campaigns bring his clients. So if the campaigns don't bring in money, he doesn't get paid. The client is literally risking nothing.

        So here's my idea. When offering SMS services to clients, pitch it to them as "performance based" and "zero risk" while taking 20% of the increased revenue that the SMS campaigns bring in.

        For example, you sign up a restaurant as an SMS client. In the first month, the increased revenue due to SMS coupons or whatever equals $5,000. You bring in $1,000 as your 20%! Or even better, you help them bring in $10,000 in additional revenue in a month and you take your share...a whopping $2,000.

        Now, just from reading this thread it seems like this is much, much more than what most people are charging their SMS clients.

        But think about it. You have positioned the service to your client as risk-free and dependent upon the performance of what you're offering them. Which it is. If they don't make money, you as the consultant don't get paid.

        It just seems to me that if you're helping to provide thousands of dollars in extra revenue each month for your clients, then charging $100/month is really understating the value you're providing. My assumption, which may be wrong, is that most small business owners would be more than willing to pay you $1k-$2k if you're bringing them $5k-$10k in money they wouldn't have otherwise had.

        Obviously, using this type of pricing structure would necessitate you, the consultant, having control over the campaigns.

        So, what say ye? Would y'all consider this type of pricing structure a rip-off considering implementing SMS campaigns is relatively cheap or a win-win for both consultant and client?

        IMO, it all comes down to how you position the service to your clients and showing them the value you're providing to their bottom line.

        P.S. Sorry for the long-winded post. Just thought I'd throw it out there for some feedback.

        Very intresting approach and written very well. Thanks
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        • Profile picture of the author scottuga44
          @ pclintcarter

          There is one MAJOR flaw with your pricing plan. It sounds really good in theory and all but do you have any idea what the avg margins are in restaurants? If you are taking 20% of their increased sales its probably not worth it to the owners for the increased revenue. A smaller % would probably work or a % of the gross profit but I'd really like to know if you can find 1 restaurant owner to give you 20% of increased revenues.
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          • Profile picture of the author philboy uk
            Originally Posted by scottuga44 View Post

            @ pclintcarter

            There is one MAJOR flaw with your pricing plan. It sounds really good in theory and all but do you have any idea what the avg margins are in restaurants? If you are taking 20% of their increased sales its probably not worth it to the owners for the increased revenue. A smaller % would probably work or a % of the gross profit but I'd really like to know if you can find 1 restaurant owner to give you 20% of increased revenues.
            eliev

            The one MAJOR flaw with your reply is that you havent read the post correctly, the concept is that you take 20% of the revenue, not sales. REVENUE. REVENUE is written at least three times.

            If somebody could offer to bring me in an extra £500 per month, I would gladly pay them £100. I know a property investor that would pay me 50% of his commission, and I am sure this is not a rarity.
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            • Profile picture of the author scottuga44
              Originally Posted by philboy uk View Post

              eliev

              The one MAJOR flaw with your reply is that you havent read the post correctly, the concept is that you take 20% of the revenue, not sales. REVENUE. REVENUE is written at least three times.

              If somebody could offer to bring me in an extra £500 per month, I would gladly pay them £100. I know a property investor that would pay me 50% of his commission, and I am sure this is not a rarity.
              In my country and on wikipedia REVENUE = GROSS

              Profits or net income generally imply total revenue minus total expenses in a given period. In accounting, revenue is often referred to as the "top line" due to its position on the income statement at the very top. This is to be contrasted with the "bottom line" which denotes net income.

              You can learn more about REVENUE here:
              Revenue - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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          • Profile picture of the author scarab
            Originally Posted by scottuga44 View Post

            @ pclintcarter

            There is one MAJOR flaw with your pricing plan. It sounds really good in theory and all but do you have any idea what the avg margins are in restaurants? If you are taking 20% of their increased sales its probably not worth it to the owners for the increased revenue. A smaller % would probably work or a % of the gross profit but I'd really like to know if you can find 1 restaurant owner to give you 20% of increased revenues.
            It really boils down this:
            Mr Business person, do you want more profits? Do you want more new customers, do want more revenue from your existing customers?

            On a 100 person list would you be willing to spend $34.00 dollars a month sending 4 action oriented messages (1 per week) to this list for a approx $320.00 in return?

            This assumes that 4 people on the list take action and spend $20.00 when they come into the business because of the text message.

            The business generates $320, $34 is what I would normally charge but under a 20% agreement that would be $64.00 instead. Maybe 20% is too much, I don't know, work with the business owner and find the sweet spot that works for both people. Either way the business owner brings in revenue that other wise was most likely would not be there. Anyone that would not trade either amount for that kind of returns really doesn't need to be in business anyway.

            Most business people would be willing to do that, but I have found pure 'rocks' that would not not. When I find a 'rock', I thank them for their time a cheerfully walk away.
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    • Profile picture of the author scarab
      Originally Posted by Noel 100K View Post

      What is a good introduction course on sms? Do you have one? Thanks.
      There isn't one unless you want to spend some money, however everything you need to know is in the threads of this forum, search for SMS and dude you can do it without anybody's hyped paper course.
      The KEY: Take Action.
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  • Profile picture of the author Matthew Loop
    Yes, I offer this service to clients... Mobile is awesome especially when you're talking about keyword / short-code campaigns, appointment reminders, voting, coupons, SMS blasting, Facebook integration, etc...

    I do also charge a monthly fee and businesses are glad to pay it since the market response and conversions are so high.

    It's all in how you use it. I wrote a free report you can check-out at http://dcmobiletext.com/ ... You can also have a look at my pricing structure for ideas

    - Matthew
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    Amazing you guys are getting that much money. More power too you. With the economy the way it is, businesses are putting a hold on advertising spending in small towns where I live. I have a database of over 1500 locals now who we send text messages to weekly and it's converting pretty well but I've had to drop my price to local businesses to $30 a month to send one text a week to the list. Granted its 100% profit in my pocket since my program has no costs per text but $0.80 a pop per month is pretty cool. if I could get away with that here in the valley, I'd generate $1200 a week per business...umm
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    • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
      Originally Posted by proapc View Post

      Amazing you guys are getting that much money. More power too you. With the economy the way it is, businesses are putting a hold on advertising spending in small towns where I live. I have a database of over 1500 locals now who we send text messages to weekly and it's converting pretty well but I've had to drop my price to local businesses to $30 a month to send one text a week to the list. Granted its 100% profit in my pocket since my program has no costs per text but $0.80 a pop per month is pretty cool. if I could get away with that here in the valley, I'd generate $1200 a week per business...umm
      You mean a pizza parlor can sign up with your business and send ONE
      coupon per week to 1500 people for $7.50? Am I reading this correctly?

      If that's a case, there is something wrong over there. All they really need
      is to get ONE pizza sold to recover their costs....

      Aren't they getting this plus MUCH more from each blast 1500 people?

      Are you sure your message gets through to the entire list?


      Thomas
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      • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
        Originally Posted by SirThomas View Post

        You mean a pizza parlor can sign up with your business and send ONE
        coupon per week to 1500 people for $7.50? Am I reading this correctly?

        If that's a case, there is something wrong over there. All they really need
        is to get ONE pizza sold to recover their costs....

        Aren't they getting this plus MUCH more from each blast 1500 people?

        Are you sure your message gets through to the entire list?


        Thomas
        I actually gave each business 30 days free trial. None of the pizza places in the valley wanted anything to do with it. They did not want to give any discounts. Its the only business in the valley that does well in any economy. The places that jumped all over it were skin care salons, small restaurants, gas station/convenience stores and mom and pop shops. Getting businesses to see this is a lot harder than getting locals to sign up. I think I'm back in the "Deliverance" movie again...It takes time here in the mountains. I'm sure by the middle of the summer, we'll have them looking at it. All it takes is one pizza place to see results and wham. The same goes for other businesses. As far is delivery rate, I don't know how to trace the delivery rate. i have about 10 different friends plus the 14 businesses now on the roll who have all stated they receive all the messages.
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  • Profile picture of the author SirThomas
    I believe pizza joints will eventually get on board. Aren't they using any coupons as of now?. Perhaps, in the smaller markets they just don't think they need to give out any discounts to get business?

    And they probably don't believe they would get more business by doing that...


    Thomas
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    • Profile picture of the author cashtech29
      The way Domino's and Pizza Hut are practically giving away there pizzas these
      days, I can see the difficulty, with getting those types of companies.

      Have you found that franchise business are pretty easy to land accounts.
      How do you respond to any franchise, when they say to you that
      there is a lot of red tape in order to jump on-board and it is just too much hassle for them to do so.

      Is it possible to go the the franchise, without having them go through committee?
      Don't they have their own budgets that they have to work with?

      Thanks for the feedback.
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  • Profile picture of the author TommyB
    Do you find that businesses have been approached alot? amd does it matter
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  • Profile picture of the author scottuga44
    Revenue is a crucial part of financial statement analysis. A company’s performance is measured to the extent to which its asset inflows (revenues) compare with its asset outflows (expenses). Net Income is the result of this equation,
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    • Profile picture of the author asnorth
      Has anyone found a good sms provider for the UK that is ideal for reselling?
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      • Profile picture of the author asnorth
        Originally Posted by jodib View Post

        Hi there,

        You are not far from me in Essex BTW...
        And we share the same Birthday too! I'm actually in Dagenham, normally refered to as East London despite the Essex postcode.
        I've read many of your post here Jodi, if I can learn a fraction of your knowledge I will be happy.

        Tony
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        • Profile picture of the author Antzpower
          Hello everyone

          Does anyone know of a good programmer who can help program the capture of both mobile phone numbers, and email addresses at point of
          entry by customers into a scheduled mobile and email auto responder?
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          • Profile picture of the author Luke Bishop
            anyone got any success stories? hows the customer feedback?
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  • Profile picture of the author TrumpiaTim
    Trumpia just launched our UK white label reseller program!
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    Trumpia: The Most Completed SMS Text Messaging Software & API Solution.
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  • Profile picture of the author JustinG30
    Great information on this post. I myself have been doing research on starting a local SMS company. I had a couple questions maybe someone can answer for me please. First one is, how many text can you send our per keyword? Also, do you let the businesses create their list but also in the process do you try to build your own mass list as maybe a promotion for a business to sign up (like if you have 2000 people in the area enrolled and offer the business one free text to the 2000 people when they sign up) Last question, do you use contracts and that for your free trial or when you sign them up? If so, do you have an example of one?

    Thanks
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    • Profile picture of the author mobilebusinessads
      Originally Posted by JustinG30 View Post

      Great information on this post. I myself have been doing research on starting a local SMS company. I had a couple questions maybe someone can answer for me please. First one is, how many text can you send our per keyword? Also, do you let the businesses create their list but also in the process do you try to build your own mass list as maybe a promotion for a business to sign up (like if you have 2000 people in the area enrolled and offer the business one free text to the 2000 people when they sign up) Last question, do you use contracts and that for your free trial or when you sign them up? If so, do you have an example of one?

      Thanks
      Mobile Business Ads dot com

      Text Blast Alerts
      Text2Win
      Text-For-Info
      Text-To-Vote
      Text-to-Screen
      SMS & MMS Text Delivery
      Mobile Coupons
      Data Collection and Surveys
      Appointment Setting Application
      Website Widget Creator
      Mobile Video
      Mobile Website Builder
      QR Code Creator
      Mobile App Creator

      Be in touch,

      Gary
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    The option is still open to consider YadaText.....It has a ZERO cost per text and for small communities, it is out performing every sms company hands down.

    Post Specials To Your Customers And Facebook Fans By Text
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    • Profile picture of the author thomas73
      Originally Posted by Mo Goulet View Post

      The option is still open to consider YadaText.....It has a ZERO cost per text and for small communities, it is out performing every sms company hands down.

      Post Specials To Your Customers And Facebook Fans By Text
      Are there any users of the Yada software in the forum who can give us a testimonial?
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      • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
        Originally Posted by thomas73 View Post

        Are there any users of the Yada software in the forum who can give us a testimonial?
        I just came back to this thread today and came across this question.

        I do not have an affiliate program for YadaText so my guess is you'll be hard pressed to find recommendations from users. There is a reviews section on the forum and after 4 years of marketing the software, outside of those who complain about SMTP messaging, there are no complaints. That is what I look for. If I like something, I don't go around telling everyone how good it is. If I don't like it, I'll tell everyone.

        Now considering this, I just purchased a program from the guys at Iconsoft and will test it's affiliate functions with the YadaText software. I'll contact the current owners and let them know so I'm sure the referrals will start flying.

        Look for an update on Social Media Management soon.
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  • Profile picture of the author BUFFALOBT
    PROAPC...interested in your upfront/ongoing costs- please share and thanks!
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    • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
      Originally Posted by BUFFALOBT View Post

      PROAPC...interested in your upfront/ongoing costs- please share and thanks!
      The only cost is the one time purchase of the software. I'm putting a more detailed video on the website within the next 72 hours and we are running a special beginning August 1st so watch for it.
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      • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
        Originally Posted by proapc View Post

        The only cost is the one time purchase of the software. I'm putting a more detailed video on the website within the next 72 hours and we are running a 5 days special beginning August 1st so watch for it.
        FYI. There are 4 left at the best price you'll ever get for the YadaText Software.

        Hurry Post Specials To Your Customers And Facebook Fans By Text

        Questions? Call me direct. My number is listed on the website.
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  • Profile picture of the author martbost
    I have found that using the Twilio service in conjunction with OpenVBX will allow you to create as many call and SMS flows for the customer as you want. Twilio has just recently dropped their rates to .01 outgoing and .01 incoming text message charges. Toll Free numbers are $2/month and Local numbers are $1/month. We are only having to pay for usage fees. This is, of course, passed along to the customer in their monthly package rate. If they send a text message to 1,000 people, they pay .02. This covers the cost of the messages being sent/received.

    We went with Opensource and cloud-based technology and it is working great.

    PM me if you want more technical specifics and I'll be glad to share.

    To Your Huge Success....
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    It says on the page "One-Time Low Annual Fee" ...

    Isn't that an oxymoron?

    What is the annual fee?
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    Update....

    We are setting up a system for the POW support groups around the US. Yesterday we had a major rally here for Bowe Bergdhl who is a prisoner of war. I met with several of the leaders from the various organizations. They had over 150 Harley's and others come in carrying flags from around the country. From Vietnam Veterans to Gulf Veterans and Veterans wounded in Battle groups all for the call to our political leaders and individual citizens to rise up in the cry for our Band of Brothers in Captivity. We're going to have several lists set up around the country where we will be able to communicate to hundreds of thousands of of the members of all the organized groups at anytime.

    How powerful is that. This is what makes Yada texting software so unique and powerful for small businesses or organizations.

    You can see Bowe's Facebook page here BTW...

    https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bring...e/105831760749

    Mo

    I'm going to upload a video I took of the rally as soon as I finish editing it.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    Here's the video of the POW*MIA rally


    Text Messaging Update

    I've now got a test program set up where you can go in and play with all the features before making a decision. Please be courteous of other warriors trial lists and when you are finished, delete any lists you have created.


    Mo
    PS: Were going to set up the POW*MIA chapters across the country with the ability to communicate VIA text messaging. This is by far the most efficient means of communication for an organization like this with hundreds of local chapters across the nation.
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  • Profile picture of the author HypeText
    I figured I would chime in here since SMS is a Huge part of what we do.

    First, It is HUGELY beneficial to the business...IF it is done properly

    I see people all the time jump on the bandwagon, run out and buy up access to a platform...

    Then fall flat on their face...even if they do sign up a few clients.

    The Problem is that they are trying to run without first learning to walk.

    I cannot emphasis this enough! If you want to get into SMS Marketing, get trained on what it takes to not only sell the product but what it takes to run a successful SMS Campaign.

    Throwing up a "Join our Mobile VIP Club" isnt going to do it.

    Using a WP Plugin is the WRONG way to go...it's SMTP and can get the client in trouble with the Cell Carriers.

    The Carriers consider SMTP to be spamming their network. The Client might be able to use it for a period of time but as their list grows its going to slow down their site as it puts a load on their server, but eventually they will have issues.
    Signature
    (916) 520-HYPE (4973)
    Local & Mobile Marketing Solutions
    $0 Setup & $99/mnth Private Label Reseller Accts
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  • Profile picture of the author FDI Global
    I am trying to build a business that involves Yeptext SMS text messaging and want to make it BIG BIG BIG with it. Does anyone have any suggestions or info that this can be a realistic goal? Im very excited but nervous...I am a school teacher and opted in my parents and so far so good in getting them information, and it also saves paper and copies! Like I said I am sooo excited but nervous. Can someone HELP me out and give some tidbits or soothing info that I'll be okay this year doing this? If your doing this can you PM me?
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  • Profile picture of the author offlinemike
    This model definitely works. We set them up for free, charge a monthly fee based on volume, and let them call our "Marketing Agents" to get assistance with creating their campaigns if they want help.

    Nice model.

    Everything you give them to help them build their list just ends up putting more money in your pocket, while at the same time they are thrilled with getting better results.

    Mike
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  • Profile picture of the author WillamK
    SMS marketing is good idea for any business. Small enterprises used this method generally, This also improve your business sale. This Is nice post.
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  • Profile picture of the author sabreena
    Hello,

    Nice thread and awesome comments... that is great..
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  • Profile picture of the author lovemykids2
    Hi mobile is a great communication tool for any business. There is no denying it the way we communicate today has changed. Anyone that is looking to build a business using mobile or is a small business thinking about using mobile marketing as an addition to their marketing strategy will benefit greatly.
    I am an owner of a platform that has really cool technology that offers a solution across the board for any business such as auto dealerships, real estate, restaurants, nail salons, doctors, fund raising, mobile business cards the list goes on and on. I enjoy sharing information and knowledge.

    Nancy
    skype: mamamia1347
    small-business-promotions.com
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  • Profile picture of the author karenfisher252
    [DELETED]
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