Sending text messages to your clients might not be the first thing you think of, but it’s incredibly effective. According to a survey, text is quickly rising as customers’ preferred customer service channel, with nearly 50% favoring it over phone calls.
So, how do you tap into this trend? This article has ideas on how to connect with customers via SMS messaging.
Advantages of Using Text Messaging for Customer Service
When you choose text messaging, you could gain some of the following benefits:
• Instant Connection
Both B2B and B2C customers carry their mobile devices with them. This means you can reach them anytime, anywhere, for immediate communication.
• High Engagement
Text messages have a higher open rate compared to emails. Clients are more likely to read and respond quickly, ensuring efficient communication.
• Personal Touch
Personalized texts make clients feel valued. Sending tailored messages about their tax prep status or reminders can build stronger relationships.
• Time Efficiency
Automated messages save you time on repetitive tasks. You can focus on more complex client needs while still keeping everyone informed.
Tips for Connecting with Clients Via Text
1. Automate Reminders
Set up automated reminders for appointments or needed documents. For example, “Hi [Client Name], just a friendly reminder about your appointment on [Date] at [Time]. See you then!”
2. Personalize Updates
Keep clients updated on their accounts or services with personalized messages. “Hey [Client Name], your tax documents are ready for review. Check them out at your convenience!”
3. Respond Quickly
Respond swiftly to client queries. A simple, “Hi [Client Name], we’ve received your question and will get back to you shortly,” shows you’re on top of things.
4. Offer Exclusives
Send special offers or discounts to make customers feel valued. “Hello [Client Name], enjoy 20% off your next service with code SAVE20. Valid till [Date]!”
5. Send Follow-Up Messages
After an appointment, send a follow-up text to check-in. “Hi [Client Name], I hope your appointment went well! Any questions or feedback?”
6. Request Feedback
Ask for feedback to improve your services. “Hi [Client Name], we’d love to hear your thoughts on our service. Please reply with your feedback!
Or get insights from your clients with quick surveys. “Hi [Client Name], how was your recent service? Let us know by completing this short survey: [Link].”
7. Communicate Emergencies
Use texts for urgent matters or changes. “Urgent: Hi [Client Name], your appointment on [Date] has been rescheduled to [New Date] at [New Time] due to an emergency. Sorry for the inconvenience!”
8. Confirm Appointments
Make sure clients remember their appointments. “Hi [Client Name], confirming your appointment on [Date] at [Time]. Please let us know if you need to reschedule.”
If you have an electronic scheduling system for accountants, you can streamline this further by including the link for clients to easily reschedule appointments, eliminating the need for them to call you or your office.
9. Send Payment Reminders
Remind clients of upcoming payments. “Hello [Client Name], your payment of [Amount] is due on [Date]. Please ensure a timely payment. Thanks!”
10. Ask for Reviews
Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews. “Hey [Client Name], if you enjoyed our service, please leave us a review: [Link]. Your feedback helps us improve!”
11. Manage Expectations
Set up out-of-office and emergency messages to manage client expectations. “Hi [Client Name], we’re currently out of the office but will be back at [Time]. Thanks for your patience!”
12. Send Seasonal Tax Tips
Share useful tax tips relevant to the season. “Hi [Client Name], don’t forget to keep your receipts for holiday gifts! They might be tax-deductible.”
13. Share Deadline Alerts
Remind clients of important tax deadlines. “Hey [Client Name], the deadline for filing your taxes is approaching on [Date]. Don’t forget to submit your documents!”
14. Announce New Services
Inform clients about any new accounting services. “Hi [Client Name], we now offer detailed tax planning sessions! Contact us to learn more.”
15. Highlight Tax Law Changes
Update clients on new tax laws or changes that might affect them. “Important: New tax law changes could impact your returns. Schedule a consultation to learn more.”
16. Acknowledge Document Submissions
Confirm receipt of important documents. “Hi [Client Name], we’ve received your tax documents. We’ll begin processing them shortly.”
17. Send Preparation Progress Updates
Keep clients informed about the status of their tax preparation. “Hi [Client Name], your tax return is in progress. We’ll notify you once it’s ready for review.”
18. Share Secure Document Links
Send secure links to upload or download sensitive documents. “Hi [Client Name], please upload your W-2 form using this secure link: [Link].”
19. Alerts for Tax Refunds
Inform clients when their tax refund is processed. “Great news, [Client Name]! Your tax refund has been processed and will be deposited soon.”
20. Schedule Tax Strategy Sessions
Invite clients to schedule strategy sessions for better tax planning. “Hi [Client Name], let’s plan your tax strategy for next year. Schedule a session here: [Link].”
21. Send Reminders on Tax Deductions
Remind clients about potential tax deductions for which they may be eligible. “Don’t forget, [Client Name], home office expenses might be deductible! Ask us how.”
22. Invitations for Year-End Planning
Encourage clients to take advantage of year-end tax planning. “Hi [Client Name], it’s time for year-end tax planning. Schedule an appointment to maximize your deductions.”
23. Share Tax Education Links
Share educational resources or articles. “Hi [Client Name], check out this article on maximizing your tax return: [Link].”
24. Offer Webinars
Invite clients to educational webinars. “Join us for a free tax tips webinar on [Date]. Register here: [Link].”
25. Announce Loyalty Programs
Inform clients about loyalty programs or referral bonuses. “Hi [Client Name], refer a friend and get 10% off your next service! Learn more: [Link].”
Set Up Text Messaging Today with ProClient
You can execute these text messaging tips via our accounting practice management software, which has a built-in text messaging system for tax businesses. With just a few steps, you can set up and start using text messaging to streamline client communication.
