Sometimes, we take our cell phones for granted. But today’s cell phone holds more computing power than our fancy desktop personal computers did 10 years ago. We are tethered to our phones. They allow us to connect with the world, verbally and electronically.
Cell phones store our photos. They act as our calendars. We use them to stream our entertainment. They are our safety net.
Because of that, Americans continue to be committed to their phones.
A few facts:
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- The majority of Americans (ninety-five percent) own a cell phone
- Almost two-thirds of Americans are only reachable on Cell phones.
- Today one-in-five American adults are “smartphone-only” internet users – meaning they own a smartphone, but do not have traditional home broadband service.
The number of cord-cutters will hit 33 million this year. A cord-cutter is defined as an adult who has canceled cable or satellite hookups and continue without it. This is a 32.8 percent increase from 2017, according to a new report by the research firm eMarketer. According to that same survey, almost 40 percent of consumers said that they used an internet streaming service to view what they wanted to. These streaming services include Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. The number of streaming services keeps increasing.
Cell Phone Marketing Strategy
Mobile needs to be part of every marketer’s strategy. Websites must be optimized for mobile, fast loading and easy to navigate.
For businesses sending out emails, make sure they are properly configured for mobile.
For companies that generate leads via telemarketing, consider a targeted cell phone list or appending cell phones to your current customer list.
Multiple Channels Increase Response Exponentially
For businesses doing direct mail, double your response by engaging in a mobile companion channel. Cell phone marketing strategy options might include scheduling e-blasts or social media posts to hit before/during/after the direct mail. Remember, you are not marketing to mobile phone numbers, but targeting people who have an email address who will be reading your message on their cell phone, either by email or in the social media.
Texting
Every retail store I do business with wants my cell phone number. Every business wants my permission to contact me by text. I am being very selective on this and have granted some businesses my permission. For example, I get notifications from my dentist, my hair salon and Bed, Bath & Beyond by text.
Apps
Certainly, many businesses are starting their own Apps to keep their customers engaged. Some are great; others not so much. A great mobile compatible App allows a customer to get directly to a site, easily shop, get information and track packages or travel information.