3 Reasons Your Small Business Needs a Mobile App

When it comes to increasing customer retention, the service and communication you provide to customers outside of your business is just as crucial as the service you provide to them in the while they’re there. Increased smartphone use has made communication with customers easier in the last several years, but it may not be enough to offer only a mobile-friendly website anymore. Here are three reasons why your small business needs a mobile app.

1. Meet customers (and potential customers) where they are

Americans today spend more time on their smartphones than they do on their computers, tablets, or even watching TV. Of that time, 89% is spent within mobile apps over web browsing. Users are familiar with apps and they appreciate all that apps can offer them to make their life easier. Customers and potential customers are already using mobile apps – you can reach your current customers and work to build your business by meeting people in the digital space where they are already engaged.

2. Communicate directly and effortlessly

A mobile app can place any needed or helpful information for customers in one spot – right at their fingertips. A mobile app allows you that direct line of communication with your customers. Post updated hours, educational articles, newsletters, promotions, and other helpful information in the app for customers to easily access. Allow customers to request appointments or reservations right in the app, and send recall messages using templated content when it’s time for them to come back in. Push notifications and soft messages ensure customers will always see recent updates. An app allows you to spend less time sending mailers, leaving messages, or posting on Facebook and opens a direct line of communication with your customers.

3. Strengthen connections and build loyalty

Loyal customers are vital to growing a business. Build that loyalty among your customer base by engaging with them and providing value. By using a mobile app in your practice, you can send greeting messages with helpful information to your customers when they walk into your business, and then you can follow up with a survey after their appointment or visit is over. Engage customers when they are in the area by sending special promotions, messages, or alerts for open appointment slots using location-based technology. If your customers are satisfied with the service and products they’ve received, as well as the follow up and continued communication, they will return to your business when they need continued service. They may even recommend your business to others who need the same service.

Unique mobile apps aren’t just for big businesses anymore. Any small business seeking to grow their business and engage customers can take their mobile marketing strategy to the next level by creating their own mobile app.