24.06.24

How to use messaging apps as Digital Marketing Tools?

For many companies, the best way to communicate with their customers is to use modern messaging apps. Here we'll look at how to use messaging apps for marketing. We’ll figure out which apps do their job in the best way.

Benefits of Facebook Messenger for Business

Direct Communication
This app lets businesses talk directly with their customers on Facebook. This means faster answers and more personalized interactions. Let’s say a customer browsing your online shoe store. They see a pair they love but aren't sure about the sizing. With the help of a messenger app, they can send a quick message asking about the fit. You can then respond directly, offering size recommendations or sending a sizing chart. This direct communication builds trust and leads to a faster purchase decision

High Engagement Rates
Messages sent through Facebook Messenger are for many people would often be opened more than emails. Let's say you run a bakery. Instead of sending out a mass email announcing your new summer offers, you can create a targeted Messenger campaign. You can send a message with mouthwatering pictures of the new cupcakes to customers who have previously purchased sweets from you. This drives more sales than a traditional email campaign.

Automated Responses
With tools like chatbots, businesses can automate replies to common questions. This means customers can get instant answers even when you're not available. You can set up a chatbot to answer frequently asked questions like "What are your store hours?" or "What is your return policy?". This frees you up to handle more complex customer care situations while still providing instant support for basic ones.

Customer Support
Messenger is great for customer support. It allows people to ask for help. They can get personalized assistance in troubleshooting any issues. This fast and efficient support ensures customer satisfaction and builds brand loyalty.

Personalized Offers
You can use Messenger to send personalized offers based on what customers like and buy. You can send them a follow-up message recommending something that might complement their recent purchases. Like relevant products based on their purchase history, increasing the chance they'll make another purchase.

Why is a messaging app important as a Marketing Tool?

Today people expect quick replies. If they ask about a product, they want an answer right away, and Messenger makes that possible. It helps make marketing more personal. Instead of sending out generic ads or emails, businesses can have actual conversations with customers, which helps build stronger relationships. When you chat with a customer about their needs and wishes, it makes them feel valued.

Almost everyone with a smartphone uses a messaging app, so it’s easier for customers to reach businesses. These apps are already integrated into the daily lives of users.

Messenger is part of Facebook, WhatsApp is widely popular globally, WeChat is essential in China, Viber has a firm presence in Europe, Telegram offers enhanced security, and Snapchat appeals to younger audiences. Your customers don’t need to download a new app or sign up for a new service to contact you. They can now use what they already have.

How Do I Use a Messaging App for Business?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to how to do it.

1. Set Up Your Business Page

To use messaging apps for your business, you first need to set up a business profile or page.

For Facebook Messenger

• Go to Facebook and click on the "Create" button.
• Select "Page" and choose the type of page that fits your business.
• Fill in your business name, category, and description.
• Add important information like your business hours, contact details, and a description of your services or products. Make sure everything is complete and accurate so customers can easily find the information they need.

For WhatsApp

• Download WhatsApp Business from the app store.
• Register with your business phone number.
• Complete your business profile with your business name, description, address, and other relevant details.

For WeChat

With 1 billion users, WeChat is a powerhouse in China, offering a blend of messaging, social media, and mobile payments. However, its reach is limited outside China.

• Register for a WeChat Official Account. 
• Fill in the required business information.
• Verify your account.

For Viber

Popular in Eastern Europe and some Asian countries with 800 million users. Viber offers marketing opportunities similar to WhatsApp.

• Download Viber and create a Viber Business Account.
• Complete your profile with your business information.

For Telegram

Known for its focus on security and larger file sharing capabilities. Telegram has 500 million users, but the ad features are still developing.

• Download Telegram and create a Telegram Business Account.
• Set up a bot using the BotFather tool.
• Customize the bot with the necessary business information.

For Snapchat

A great platform for reaching a younger demographic (13-34-year-olds) with over 300 million users.

• Download Snapchat and create a Snapchat Business Account.
• Complete your profile with business information.

 

2. Enable Messaging

Ensure the messaging feature is turned on so customers can contact you through the app.

For Facebook Messenger

• Go to your business page settings.
• Find the "General" tab and click on "Messages."
• Check the box that says "Allow people to contact my Page privately by showing the Message button."

For WhatsApp

• Go to the app settings.
• Enable "Messaging Tools" for quick replies and automated messages.

For WeChat, Viber, and Telegram

• Go to the settings and ensure messaging features are enabled.
• Customize auto-replies and other messaging tools.

For Snapchat

• Enable messaging through your business account settings.

 

3. How to Run Ads that Click on Messenger

Create ads on various platforms that direct users to a messenger conversation.

For Facebook Messenger

• When setting up your ad, choose the “Messages” objective.
• Design your ad to encourage users to click and start a conversation.

Example: Run a promotion ad that says, “Want to know more about our new products? Click here to chat with us on Messenger!” When users click the ad, it opens a Messenger chat with your business.

For WhatsApp

• Use Facebook Ads Manager to create a WhatsApp Click-to-Chat ad.
• Design your ad to direct users to a WhatsApp conversation.

For WeChat

• Use WeChat Ads to create an ad that directs users to your WeChat Official Account.

For Viber and Telegram

• Use their respective ad platforms to create ads that initiate conversations.

For Snapchat

• Open Snap Ads to set up your ad.

Conclusion

Nowadays, people don't just buy from businesses they like, they buy from businesses they feel connected to. A messenger is the right tool for developing those relationships. Even if you are sending a quick message on a customer's birthday offering a special discount, it might be an insignificant gesture, but it shows you care and makes your brand strong and beloved.

Read More: Promoted Services on Djobzy: A Quick Guide