Using bulk SMS to thrive in the digital transformation of the accounting industry

Accounting digital transformation

Digital transformation is sweeping through the accounting industry. Looking at predictions by Deloitte, automation of routine processes will rise, and tech-savvy clients will demand broader functionality for self-service options. And bulk SMS is ready to come to the rescue.

The tech disruption also has major influences on the changing role of the accountant: while machines manage heavy number-crunching, humans are free to perform more meaningful - and lucrative - financial analysis.

Leaders in the profession know that to thrive in the digital shake-up, they need to provide value to clients.

This can be achieved with a solid customer engagement strategy and bulk SMS marketing.

Almost one-third of small and medium-sized accounting practices will invest more than 10 percent of their revenue in learning new technologies, according to a global survey by the International Federation of Accountants. They know this will be key in attracting and retaining clients. In addition to making sure systems are harnessing the power of technology, bulk SMS marketing tools will assist in setting yourself apart from competitors.

When you’re running a busy accounting practice, you’ll most likely have clients who are in various life stages: the young professional starting out, the new family, and the retired couple ready to scale down. How do you find a communication channel that reaches everyone? Bulk SMS is a simple answer.

It doesn’t matter whether your clients use smart or feature phones, or if they check their email regularly. SMS is the most cost-effective and reliable way to stay connected with them.

Using bulk SMS to improve customer service

Accountants can make use of bulk SMS to improve customer engagement, and there are several ways to do this.

Your clients are busy people - it’s hard to keep track of life’s competing priorities. Sending SMS reminders about appointments and deadlines for tax returns is a helpful way to reduce your client’s finance-related stress.

If they’re avoiding something, or have forgotten about it completely, it’s likely to be their taxes. Most Americans hate doing their taxes because of the complicated paperwork and inconvenience, according to the Pew Research Center. Make the process less painful by sharing short and practical tips. You could even send alerts about new content you’ve posted on your website - perhaps it’s an informative how-to article explaining a complex financial process. An SMS alert ensures your client doesn’t miss out.

A big part of setting yourself apart will be branding, and sharing thought leadership content is core to building credibility. Using bulk SMS, you can send brief updates about any key financial policy developments or legislation that has a direct effect on your customers.

Incentivize SMS marketing sign-ups

If you’re ready to grow your business with bulk SMS marketing tools, offering an enticing incentive is an effective way to encourage clients to opt-in to your messaging service. New subscribers could receive a free ten-minute phone or video consultation. (There’s a good chance they might become paying clients).

You should also integrate your content strategy deeply into your business. Ask existing and new clients about their biggest financial goals for the year ahead, and those insights will guide your SMS marketing campaign.

The best aspect of a web-based bulk SMS marketing strategy is that it’s super easy to set up. Clickatell’s SMS platform lets you SMS-enable any website or application to set up two-way messaging with your customers, no matter where they are. If you’re starting small, the platform will scale with you - growing as you do.

If you’re interested in learning more about running simple, cost-effective SMS marketing campaigns today, read more about Clickatell’s SMS Platform here. When you’re ready, sign up for a free account and enjoy free testing in the sandbox environment and find out just how much bulk SMS can do for your business.