Integrating Messaging Apps in Your Marketing

For too long we have thought of messaging apps as merely a means of communication, but not a means of making sales. That has changed with the release of new marketing information from eMarketer.com.

Given the popularity of mobile messaging apps like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp and others, it’s no surprise that those companies are beginning to roll out marketer-friendly tools like in-app payments and chat bots.

Communication and Marketing

While messaging apps were originally created to help users communicate more effectively with their friends and family, communication is also at the heart of marketing.

It’s almost stunning that it’s taken this long for companies to get on board with business messaging apps. After all, in order to market successfully to your customers, you must first learn how to communicate with them effectively. This means using the same apps that they already enjoy communicating through.

Discovering the Integrated Messaging App

When it comes to integrating a messaging app into your business, there are several ways to go about the task. First, you may choose to use a messaging app where you can reach out to your followers and send them special links and promotions. Unlike emails, the open rate on these messages is very high because of the personal reach that messaging apps have.

Shopping bots have also become very popular by giving customers instant updates on their orders and helping to guide them through the checkout process. This extra human touch gives customers the same positive feeling of working with a friendly and helpful customer service agent in a store.

Finally, allowing customers to place orders and send payments through the messaging app instead of diverting them to a separate payment site can go a long way toward closing more deals.

Fun Features

Aside from the functional areas of the modern messaging app, there is also plenty to say about the fun added features that these apps have to offer. Creating branded emojis is one way to remind your customers of your brand and place yourself firmly in their conversations. Running contests, games and other promotional events through these apps also lets them enjoy the community of fellow fans.

Naturally, marketing through a messaging app is different from other forms of marketing. There are no large open spaces waiting to be filled with static ads. Every interaction needs to be personable and inviting to gain traction. Most importantly, most people have a low tolerance for spam in these apps, so you will need to limit your contacts to a few highly effective messages rather than blasting out new promotions three times a day.

To learn more about the future of messaging apps and marketing, or a wide range of other marketing topics, explore our blog or drop us a line today.