A 30 second SMS Equals $$
How a simple text could be the difference between $$ and a cancelled job/booking
(Profitable $ Marketing Techniques to Boost Conversion)
Just today I booked a surprise lunch date for our buddy’s 40th b’day at award winning restaurant Rick Stein at Bannisters, located within well known boutique hotel Bannisters perched on the cliff tops above the southern coast beach of Mollymook. Apparently a highly desirable location for an adult break away. We thought our mate and his wife could enjoy a lunch date while we minded their beautiful daughter– especially seeing they have no family near-by to call on.
Anyway, I tell you this because I was pretty impressed with their service. Let me tell you why…
Only 10 minutes after hanging up the phone I received a text on my mobile that read:
‘Dear Andrew, thank you for your reservation for 2, we look forward to seeing you on 21st of July 2010 at 1300. Kind regards, Rick Stein at Bannisters’
My first thought, seeing it was a surprise was, “I’m glad I didn’t give them my mate’s number. It would have spoilt everything!”
And my second thought was, “Wow, I’m impressed”.
Why was I impressed?
Because it was literally sent within 10 minutes of me hanging up the phone. A reminder service that doubles as a checking mechanism that I booked the right date/time. Now that’s service.
Because I was immediately excited about this lunch now that I had physical proof it was booked. I personally think this would reduce any cancellations because the customer feels connected to their up and coming outing. They’ve already taking their first bite of the sautéed crystal bay prawns with garlic butter and sipping a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Mmmm, take me there now!
Because it made me think about my own business and how my customers would feel if I did this to them. A plumber that sends a confirmation text as soon as they’ve hung up the phone. I ‘reckon there’s something in that. Do you know of any trade business offering this service? Would it WOW them? I bet it would.
It would take 30 seconds and a few cents to guarantee the booking.
Now I’m only venting that I didn’t selfishly give my kids to my mate and take Ange there myself (just jokes of course). Maybe next time!
Andrew Smith
