You might think a chatbot is a new revolutionary Marketing
tool, but this is not the case… they have actually existed for decades but only
in recent times businesses have to exploit them and the opportunities that come
with having an on-site bot.
A well optimized chatbot is a great way to boost conversion
rates and generate more online leads and sales. Bots were initially built
dominantly to deal with customer service, aimed at improving efficiency in
resolving problems and queries from customers. But they have since developed
further to become more Sales & Marketing based.
There are two main types of bots – the intelligent bot and
the scripted one. The scripted uses pre-defined points and responds in an
automated manner. Whereas the intelligent bot is continuously developing,
analysing customer text and learning from conversation and experience using AI.
The development and growth of the chatbot is dominantly owed
to Facebook who using their Messenger app allowed bots to be integrated into
their platform. With over 4 billion users (as of September 2019) using their
messenger app, the potential for businesses using bots is huge.
There are many benefits as to why you should use Chatbots
for your online business including:
- Chatbots have massive potential: In Marketing
terms bots are still in their infancy. They will continue to develop and grow
and will soon be at the forefront of most websites service efforts.
- Chatbots are simple to build: There are many
providers out there who make building bots easy and a simple drag and drop
exercise. Of course, there is bespoke but with bots in their infancy now is the
time to explore the cost-effective options available.
- Chatbots help grow your brand image: A chatbot
represents your business, its values and brand. It is a great way of brand
building and helping convey a message as to what your business is all about.
- Chatbots simplify customer service: They take out the
human aspect of dealing with an enquiry, stripping it back to its simplest form
and provide users short, concise, clear information leading to greater customer
satisfaction.
- Chatbots are actually cost effective: The cost of
developing a chatbot is minimal compared to the cost of having someone dealing
with online enquiries and issues. With the potential lead generation, they can
also provide using AI, the bot become one of your most affordable sales tools.
