Bulk SMS with database to great SMS marketing campaign

The primary tool for a successful SMS campaign is an SMS database of real, interested customers. The question arises of how to build an SMS database. What is needed? How to obtain phone numbers and under what conditions we can use these numbers during an SMS campaign?

Bulk SMS with Ozeki SMS Gateway

The diagram shows how the Ozeki SMS Gateway can send bulk SMS messages. It takes messages from different sources like an AI system, an Excel file (XLS), or a database (SQL) and processes them through the SMS Gateway software. The messages can then be sent out in three different ways: using an Android phone connected via WiFi, a GSM modem connected via USB, or directly over the internet using IP SMS. These methods send the messages to cell towers, which then deliver them to the recipients' phones as SMS messages. This system allows for efficient and large-scale sending of SMS messages.

bulk sms
Figure 1 - Bulk SMS using Ozeki SMS Gateway

Under current regulations, before you send an SMS to anyone, the recipient of the SMS must agree to receive messages from you. This means that the purchase of a random SMS database is not possible, because the consent of the owners of the sold phone numbers cannot be transferred during the purchase.

How to anyone can build a successful SMS database for marketing campaigns?

  • The most important thing is to motivate customers to receive SMS from you.
  • The more they want to receive SMS from you, the more likely it is that your SMS database contains phone numbers of quality customers who are ready to buy on the customer journey.

In order to compile such a database, you have to think through it:

  • What value special offers can provide to the target audience?
  • What are the information and current events related to the products they are interested in, which they would like to find out about on a regular basis?
  • What discount codes, special event access codes, VIP invitations, daily tips, etc. they would be most happy.

If you consistently offer valuable information that really engages your customers, your list will grow nicely. Here are some ideas for starting and expanding your database:

Channels to grow your SMS database

Offline

Businesses with an existing customer base should think through what the customer touch points are, which provides a suitable opportunity for customers to simply and conveniently enter their phone number. For beauty salons, retail stores, restaurants, gyms, etc., with a constant flow of customers, this is an excellent choice.

At the reception, customers can join by scanning a QR code poster or filling out a registration sheet. The staff will provide instructions. On-site sign-up is an excellent option for both new businesses and established businesses to build an SMS database list effectively for their communication campaigns.

Social media

It provides many excellent opportunities for followers to join a client’s SMS database during a campaign. In your posts, make sure to consistently highlight the advantages of joining and provide instructions on how to join. A dedicated number allows followers to connect through SMS.

Website or online store

When your customers visit your website or online store, take advantage of the opportunity. Provide them the chance to register in your database and provide their phone number for receiving SMS messages. In a pop-up window or during another registration process like making a purchase or booking an appointment, you can mark a checkbox.

TV and Radio, Billboards

Although it can be quite expensive to advertise your phone number on these platforms, if you reach your target audience through these platforms, it can be a good opportunity to get your customers' phone numbers and grow your SMS database. Insurance companies can ask their customers to send an SMS to receive more information about the conditions when would like to apply for short-term loans.

How to send automated text messages to your customers from an SQL database

Once your database is ready, it’s time to start sending SMS to your registered customers. The easiest way to send an automatic SMS is to upload the customer’s phone number and the text of the message to a database. During the marketing campaign, the SMS system connects to the SQL server and sends messages to the recipients.

How to send SMS from MS SQL (Quick steps)
To send SMS from MS SQL:

  1. Install MS SQL Server
  2. Create database and tables
  3. Launch the Ozeki SMS Gateway
  4. Add a new SQL messaging application
  5. Configure Database connection settings
  6. Enable MS SQL Server connection
  7. Insert phone numbers and messages into the database
  8. Check the SMS messages in the Sent folder

Key takeaways

Building a successful SMS marketing campaign requires a database of real, interested customers who have opted-in to receive your messages. You cannot buy pre-built databases as regulations require recipient consent.

The key is to incentivize customers to join your database by offering valuable information relevant to their interests. This could include special offers, product updates, discount codes, or exclusive content.

An SMS database offers a wealth of advantages for crafting successful marketing campaigns.

Here's a breakdown of some key benefits:

  • Targeted Communication: Reach the right people. An SMS database allows you to segment your audience based on interests, purchase history, or demographics. This ensures your messages are relevant and resonate with the recipient, leading to higher engagement.

  • Targeted Communication: Reach the right people. An SMS database allows you to segment your audience based on interests, purchase history, or demographics. This ensures your messages are relevant and resonate with the recipient, leading to higher engagement.

  • Boost Sales and Conversions: Targeted SMS campaigns with special offers, discounts, or flash sales can incentivize purchases and encourage immediate action from interested customers.

With the help of an SMS database, you can generate focused marketing campaigns that drive engagement, increase sales results, and take care of the customer relationship.

Once you have a SMS database, you can send automated SMS campaigns using Ozeki SMS gateway that connects to your SQL database server (e.g., MySQL server) to retrieve phone numbers and message content.

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