Every event manager knows that the job does not come with a step-by-step how-to manual that outlines what you need to do to succeed. Every single one is different, and while they all have the common goal of bringing people together for a common cause, that is where their similarities end. Event managers must be able to multitask skillfully, communicate effectively with many varying personalities, find the best bargains in town to keep budgets bearable, steer gracefully through problems that will invariably occur, and do all of this with confidence and a smile.
No problem, right?
Luckily, today we have the technology that can take just a little of the pressure off. Not many people consider how widespread cell phone use is. However, these statistics are of vital importance to anyone planning a large event, as managers can take advantage of cellular use to help streamline their planning, keeping everyone up-to-date from the first contact through to the post event survey. You can keep everyone in the loop and informed by the push of a button. (Ok, we admit, it takes a few button presses to text – but you get the idea!)
Here are seven reasons every event planner needs to be using text messaging:
1 – The Pew Research Center found that as of November 2016, 95 percent of Americans have cell phones.
2 – Conversely, only 77 percent of cell phone owners have smartphones. If you rely on event software that requires people to download an app, you will invariably be leaving people out.
3 – Text messaging is the number one utilized feature on phones, with 97 percent of Americans using it daily. You are not forcing people to learn something new, which some may balk at. Texting is something they are adept at and already accustomed to.
4 – Texting is not just for personal use. According to eWeek, 80 percent of people already use it for business, so why shouldn’t they be using it for yours as well?
5 – Email is not where it is at anymore; only 20 percent of emails are opened, whereas text messaging has a whopping 98 percent open rate. You can be assured that when you press ‘send,’ your message will get to the recipients promptly, and will actually be seen. No more missed communications!
6 – The CFI Group discovered in 2012 that texting is what keeps consumers satisfied when it comes to business communications. The technology earned 90 out of 100 points in their survey, while phone calls only earned 77 points. Your customers want to be texted.
7 – eWeek also found that when it comes to business professionals, 72 percent would prefer to text than to use a messaging app.
Don’t make the mistake of making your customers or employees go the extra mile for your event. Show them that you are an event manager that is hip to what they want by offering text messaging for events. You will keep them happy, save money, and are more likely to get that post event survey filled out!
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