Business is constantly evolving. And as it does, the methods we use to connect with customers, clients, and colleagues evolve with it. One method that has overtaken modern business is text messaging. It's become a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes to engage, inform, and build relationships with their customers. In fact, 61% of consumers say they want to text with a business.
But, with the growing popularity of business texting comes a challenge – choosing the right texting app for business communications. With so many options out there, finding the right one can be overwhelming.
That's where Cloud9VoIP comes in. We're here to walk you through choosing the right business texting app for your company. Starting with what features to look for.
Key Features to Look for in a Texting App for Business
There are many options when it comes to texting for business. All options are not created equal. When you are weighing your options, you should consider the following features.
Multi-Channel Communication. Most people (around 59% prefer not to use a separate app to communicate with you. So, your text platform should let you connect with them through other means like texts (SMS), pictures (MMS), and social media messages. This way, you can talk to your audience the way they like, making good conversations more likely.
Integration with Existing Communication Tools. Doing so ensures a unified communication experience, reducing the need to switch between different applications and saving you valuable time. With Cloud9, you get access to all your connection points in one simple app.
Contact Management and Segmentation. With this feature, you can categorize your contacts based on different criteria, making your messages targeted and relevant. Such personalization builds stronger connections and boosts the effectiveness of your communication efforts. Platforms like Cloud9 also let you personalize text messages with a customer's name, company, address, and more.
Automated Messaging Options. Look for an app like Cloud9 that offers automated messaging options, such as scheduled messages, auto-responders, and chatbots. Automation streamlines routine interactions, improves response times and enhances customer satisfaction.
Security and Compliance. A reliable texting app for business should adhere to stringent security measures and compliance standards, such as GDPR and HIPAA (if applicable). This safeguards sensitive information and builds trust with your client base. With Cloud9 proactive updates, you'll always be in compliance.
Assessing Your Business Texting Needs
Now that you know what features to look for, let's discuss how to research and compare different business texting apps. Assessing your specific communication requirements is vital to find your perfect fit. Consider the following questions:
Who is your target audience?
How frequently do you need to communicate via text?
Do you require multimedia messaging?
What level of automation do you need?
Are there any compliance or regulatory considerations?
How To Research & Compare Business Texting Apps
Sometimes it's nice to know where to start your research in a world of so many options. Not that aimlessly googling keywords is a bad place to begin. It just takes a lot of time. Here are three types of sites that will make your investigation a little easier
App stores like Apple's App Store or Google Play. They've collected a lot of information for you already, from features to customer ratings and download numbers. Look for and analyze patterns to see which app fits your needs best. And has the best reviews.
Online review platforms like G2 Crowd, Capterra, and Trustpilot. While they may not have an extensive list of features, they do have many customer reviews. You can use them to understand real-world usage scenarios for whatever texting app for business you're researching.
Industry-specific communities like Stack Overflow & Reddit (only relevant subreddits). Such specialized forums for your app's niche can offer discussions about technical issues and best practices from those who've implemented the app.
Now that you know where to look, let's talk about what to look for when comparing apps:
User Ratings and Reviews. Feedback from other users offers firsthand insights into an app's performance and user satisfaction. Look for those with at least a four-star rating.
Feature Lists and Descriptions. Scrutinize the features offered and how well they align with your needs. Don't settle for less.
Pricing Plans and Scalability. Ensure the pricing structure matches your budget and accounts for potential growth. A scalable solution will prevent headaches down the road.
Now It's Time to Make Your Decision
You're armed with research. Now it's time to narrow your options and make an informed decision. Create a shortlist of potential apps that tick all the boxes like Cloud9VoIP. From that list, prioritize solutions that align with your unique requirements and can easily grow as you grow. Then schedule a demonstration or free trial! It'll help you get a firsthand feel of the user interface and functionality. Remember, the right texting app for business isn't just a tool. It's a strategic investment in your communication arsenal.
Want to Find the Perfect Texting App for Business? Let Cloud9VoIP Connect You!
Ready to elevate customer engagement with the perfect texting app for business communication? Discover the power of Cloud9VoIP's feature-rich offering and take your messaging strategy to new heights! Reach out today to get started.