Articles

6 Benefits of Using SMS for Small Businesses

Written by UnitedCloud | Jan 2, 2025 2:00:00 PM

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected with your customers is more important than ever. People are glued to their phones, and texting has become the preferred way to communicate. It’s quick, easy, and direct—perfect for businesses looking to strengthen relationships and provide excellent service.

Did you know that nearly 93% of consumers wish they could text with a business? Yet, only 13% of companies currently offer this option. That’s a huge gap—and an incredible opportunity for your small business. SMS business texting isn’t just a trend; it’s a powerful tool to improve customer engagement, streamline communication, and save time.

Whether you’re confirming appointments, sending order updates, or sharing exclusive promotions, SMS can transform how you interact with customers. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about meeting customers where they already are—on their phones.

Here’s a closer look at six key benefits of using SMS for your small business and why it’s time to embrace this game-changing communication channel.

1. Customers Prefer Texting Over Calls

Modern customers value convenience and speed. Research shows that 68% of phone users frequently check their devices for new messages, and a staggering 54% are frustrated when they can’t text a business. Unlike phone calls or emails, text messages allow customers to engage on their own terms, whether they’re multitasking or in noise-sensitive environments.

Pro Tip: Add emojis, pictures, or short videos to make your texts feel more personal and engaging.

2. It's Easy to Use for Both Customers and Employees

Unlike business apps or software requiring downloads and learning curves, SMS is second nature. Customers can confirm appointments or ask questions with a simple text—no app installation needed. For your team, SMS is easy to set up, and templated messages make managing communications a breeze.

Pro Tip: Use UnitedCloud’s communication platform to streamline calls, SMS, and eFax from a single business number.

3. Save Time with Automation

Automated SMS responses let you handle repetitive tasks like appointment reminders, order confirmations, or FAQs. Even during off-hours, your customers can get the information they need, while your team focuses on more complex tasks. Linking out to detailed resources, like return policies or promotions, is quick and effortless.

Pro Tip: Increase productivity with spam-blocking and number-blacklist features built into UnitedCloud’s SMS solution.

4. Expand Capabilities with Integrations

By integrating SMS with your existing tools, you can automate alerts, send payment reminders, manage marketing campaigns, and more. Tools like CRM integrations enable you to trigger personalized messages, while shared SMS inboxes simplify team collaboration.

Pro Tip: Use prebuilt integrations with CRM systems to trigger SMS campaigns and enhance client engagement.

5. Unmatched Open Rates and Quick Response Times

SMS boasts an incredible 98% open rate, compared to email’s 20%. Messages are short, direct, and easy to read within seconds. Whether you're sharing a special offer or sending time-sensitive updates, SMS ensures your message gets noticed.

Pro Tip: Businesses using UnitedCloud’s SMS platform have reported significantly higher engagement compared to phone calls or emails.

6. Faster Communication = Better Customer Experience

SMS allows for instant engagement, leading to faster responses and happier customers. Whether you're gathering feedback, closing deals, or getting contracts signed, texting simplifies the process. Plus, it feels more personal, helping you build long-lasting customer relationships.

Pro Tip: Search through past conversations easily with keyword lookup features to find important information in seconds.

Experience the Difference Today

UnitedCloud’s business SMS solution helps you stay professional and efficient. From automated texting to advanced integrations, our platform is designed to simplify your communications while ensuring carrier compliance. By enabling you to send and receive texts or multimedia messages from a single business number, you can maintain your brand’s identity and provide exceptional service.

Ready to unlock the potential of SMS for your small business? Contact UnitedCloud today to request a demo and see how SMS can transform the way you connect with your customers.