7 Innovative Ways to Use an SMS Service Center Number for Marketing

We are constantly looking for new and unique strategies to enhance marketing efforts. Using an SMS Service Center number for marketing is one of the most effective tools to reach customers and increase engagement. SMS marketing statistics indicate that about 79% of consumers have opted in to receive text messages from businesses. SMS messages boast an impressive open rate of 98% and a click-through rate of 10.66%, far outperforming email marketing. In this article, we will explore 7 innovative ways to leverage SMS Service for marketing, and how to maximize its use to achieve tangible results and increase customer interaction.

What is an SMS Service Center Number (SMSC)?

Firstly we have to inform you that an SMS Center (SMSC) is a unique number assigned to each SMS center within a mobile network. This number is responsible for routing and organizing SMS messages between networks, ensuring reliable delivery. It is similar to a phone number but dedicated solely to this purpose.

How an SMS Center Works

The SMS Center handles the task of converting and routing messages to their recipients. If the recipient is unavailable (for example, if their phone is off), the service center stores the message until the device is available or the message’s expiration period ends, after which it is forwarded to the recipient.

Format of the Number and How It Is Stored

The SMS Service Center number follows the same format as regular phone numbers, including country codes and network-specific prefixes. The number associated with the network you use is stored on your SIM card, ensuring that messages are routed correctly via the proper service center.

How SMS Are Sent via SMS Service Center number

When you send an SMS, your phone automatically connects to the assigned SMS Service Center number. The service center then determines the best way to route the message to the recipient’s network. If there are any issues sending SMS messages, it could be due to incorrect SMSC configuration on your device.

How is an SMS Service Center Number Different?

Though an SMSC number and a regular phone number may seem similar in format, there are distinct differences in their function and use. Here are the key differences:

key differences	SMS Service Center number	Phone number
Primary Purpose	Exclusively used to route SMS messages within the mobile network. It is not tied to an individual mobile device but rather facilitates the routing of text messages within the network.	Assigned to a specific mobile device, enabling voice calls and SMS text message exchanges. It serves as the primary means of personal communication.
Functionality and Uses	Cannot receive direct calls or SMS messages. Its main function is to act as a behind-the-scenes connector, routing messages through the network to recipients.	Enables users to make voice calls and send text messages, serving as a direct communication method between individuals.
User Interaction	Typically, users do not interact directly with the SMSC number, as it is preconfigured on the SIM card. However, incorrect SMSC settings may cause issues with sending messages.	Actively used by individuals for communication, either for voice calls or sending text messages.

How to Use SMS Service Center Number for Marketing Effectively

To maximize the benefits of the SMS Center, there are several best practices to follow to ensure the success of your marketing campaigns and the effectiveness of your communication with customers.

Speak Like a Real Person

Customers prefer texting businesses because they feel they are reaching a real person. So, it’s important to mimic the way you would text a friend. Avoid long, robotic messages that may make the customer feel like they are interacting with a chatbot or an automated response system. Your sentences don’t need to be complete, and unnecessary words can be left out. Short, clear, and personal messages are what customers prefer.

Use Emojis Where Appropriate

To make your messages feel more human, don’t hesitate to add some emojis or images. Visual elements help clarify what you are trying to say. Images and PDFs are great for showcasing products or educational content, while emojis can help summarize the main goal of your message, such as 📣 for announcements, 🎉 for celebrations, and 🔧 for new solutions. Your SMS subscribers will appreciate these visual elements.

Schedule Your SMS Marketing Campaigns in Advance

Plan your SMS marketing campaigns and maintain a calendar to document scheduled messages. This is the best way to ensure that your messages are spaced out in a balanced way for customers. You wouldn’t send a mass email to all your marketing contacts without a strategy—apply the same level of organization to your SMS campaigns. One message per week is enough to maintain engagement without overwhelming your customers.

Send What You Promised to Your Customers

If you promised a weekly SMS newsletter, make sure you send that weekly SMS newsletter. Do not limit your messages to just promotional offers, as this could alienate your SMS contact list. Send what your subscribers signed up to receive, and they will stay with you.

Include Clear Calls to Action in Your Messages

The best SMS marketing messages include a clear call-to-action (CTA) asking customers to take a specific next step. For example, you can encourage them to:

“Check out this link”
“Use this discount”
“View this image/PDF”
“Visit our website”
“Give us your feedback”

Without a CTA, you are sharing information without telling customers what to do with it. You’ll see better results when you’re clear about what you want your customers to do next.

SMS Service Center Number Marketing Strategies

SMS marketing strategies provide innovative and direct ways to reach your target audience, enhancing interaction and contributing to a better customer experience. In this section, we’ll explore a set of strategies that can help you achieve tangible results and increase customer loyalty.

Welcome New Subscribers

It’s always a good idea to send a welcome message to new subscribers. This text confirms the person’s opt-in and provides them with an option to opt-out if they wish. By introducing your company and the perks you offer from the beginning, you create interest and give recipients a chance to save your number, which helps them recognize who is texting them later.

Alert About Upcoming Deals

Do you have seasonal discounts or upcoming promotions? Use SMS to inform subscribers about exciting deals and provide a link to your website to drive traffic. This helps attract new visitors and effectively boosts sales.

Announce New Product Releases or Company News

You can use SMS marketing to create buzz around a new product, service, or business location you’re launching. Schedule multiple messages at intervals leading up to the release to keep the details top of mind for subscribers.

Start a Rewards Program

Do you have a VIP or loyalty program? SMS marketing can make subscribers feel like they’re part of something special. Use this strategy to let subscribers know the benefits they’ve already earned and encourage them to make additional purchases to earn more rewards.

Provide Customer Support

Depending on the products or services you offer, SMS marketing can be a good way to provide customer support. You can use automated responses through chatbots or human customer support agents to identify and resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

Send Abandoned Cart Reminders

When a customer leaves products in their shopping cart on your website, sending a text reminder can prompt them to complete their purchase. Just make sure to time this message right to catch them while they’re still interested in buying.

Remind Customers About Appointments

This strategy is especially popular in the healthcare industry, although it can be used by other service-based businesses as well. Allow customers to sign up for SMS reminders for upcoming appointments or events to keep them in the loop. You can also text them updates if the time or location changes.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance customer interaction and encourage them to take actions that boost the success of your marketing campaigns.

Request an SMS Service Center Number

If you’re looking for an SMS service number to ensure effective communication with your customers, Bevatel is the ideal choice. We provide you with an SMS Service Center number that allows you to send text messages quickly and easily to your target audience, ensuring the highest standards of security and delivery efficiency. Whether you need to send reminder messages, advertisements, or appointment updates, we can help you provide excellent service. Contact us today to begin your journey with us and benefit from our integrated solutions that guarantee the best SMS experience for your customers.