It’s one thing to text your clients, but did you also realize that you might receive texts from them? An introduction to two-way SMS communication is provided in this brief guide. You will discover where and how to employ Long and Short codes to grow your contact database customer base and boost consumer interaction. Learn online how to receive SMS!
Let’s start by quickly defining the topic of our conversation. In addition to business text messaging, which is typically a one-way exchange of information, SMS API provides a means for businesses to communicate via SMS with their customers.
You must first register for a virtual number, often known as an SMS receiving number. There are two varieties: shorter and longer. We’ll return to it shortly. Let’s first concentrate on the objective of two-way SMS communication.
Goals and tools of 2 WAY SMS communication
It all comes down to this one simple question: what are your goals when communicating with prospects and customers? As you may be aware, there are lots of uses for 2-Way SMS! For example, you may create an SMS competition, an interactive outdoor ad, an online or offline quiz, or a feedback request form.
The type of VMN (Virtual Mobile Number) you should use depends on the goal you are trying to achieve. As previously said, there are two types: Short code (four- or five-digit number) and Long code (standard length number). Their strengths and applications are distinct.
SMS Long code
A long code is a regular number with nine to eleven digits. Nothing special about it, but it works well, especially if the digits are repeated or combined in a way that makes it easy to remember. Long codes work well in printed materials, on websites, and at live events, or anywhere else your target audience has the time to punch in a long string of numbers or memorize.
SMS Short code
Short codes are just that—short. Its primary advantage is that it often only has four or six digits! It is really simple to recall. It will therefore be ideal for all advertisements that want to reach an audience that moves quickly or is in a rush. Think of audio files, radio shows, and advertisements next to highways. There isn’t enough time to commit anything more than four characters to memory.
Whatever the format, 2-way SMS conversation is a GDPR-compliant and efficient approach to expand your contact list! You must notify your clients in writing that they consent to receiving responses from you.
How to receive SMS from clients?
Now let’s get technical! The first step is to use the built-in chat feature (blue button in bottom right corner) to get in touch with your advisor. You must indicate to us that you would like to receive mails. We’ll provide you access to the SMS receiving panel.
You can select a number and adjust every parameter there. All of the messages you’ve received will be visible to you, or you can use the API to view them.
Remember that receiving SMS numbers may not be possible at all in certain areas. We suggest getting in touch with your SMS API account adviser to find out if a 2-way SMS service is offered where you want it to be. With all paperwork and other requirements, we’ll assist you. Your Customer Portal contains the contact information.
Benefits of Two-Way Messaging
SMS is a widely used, well-established technology. As a result, it exposes you to a wide audience, which can include those who are unaware of your work online. It is excellent for your retention and recruitment objectives.
Another benefit of using SMS as a channel is that hundreds of people will reply to your text the moment they feel their phone buzz, so whether you’re sending out offers or asking for feedback, you’ll frequently gather the majority of data in a matter of minutes.
Additionally, two-way SMS can be rather economical. Numerous customer care paths can be developed and automated using a shared short code and several keywords, guiding consumers through even multi-stage service procedures without the need for human intervention.