Podium is a customer relations management (CRM), system that helps businesses acquire new customers and retain existing customers. It allows you to streamline communication, track leads, and improve your communications. It provides email and SMS communications as well, but also analytics and contact profiles to each client.
Podium allows you to easily create custom messages that are optimized for your recipient, whether you are a business owner and/or an agency. The service's email inbox allows you to create and send messages, reply to messages, and manage your contact lists. You can also set up a webchat widget and send automated messages.
While some may find the prices on Podium a bit on the high side, the company does offer a free starter plan. There's also a monthly subscription which allows you to purchase the number of subscribers that you need. You may not find the price too expensive if your business is smaller. There are other similar services on the market, such as Textedly, which offers a flexible monthly payment schedule.
The Podium dashboard interface is clear and simple to use. When you log in your first time, you will be provided with simple instructions to get you started. The knowledge base, which is part of the website's top navigation bar, can be found in the upper navigation bar. This is where you'll find tips and tricks to ensure your campaigns are effective.
Podium's unique review feature is undoubtedly one of its best features. Customers can leave feedback right away. Once customers have submitted their feedback, they can choose the platform on which they wish to voice their opinion. And, the company claims that two-thirds of leads are generated through the web chat function.
Podium offers review invitations that can be sent via text in order to encourage customers leave reviews. Clicking the "Review Invitation" button will take you to a URL-shortened webpage. After the recipient clicks on the URL, they'll be taken to a review page with a button for them to submit their review.
Podium provides templates and other tools for its users to help them create a successful review campaign. These templates come in four different formats. The template is created by entering the customer's name, phone number, and then it is sent to the recipient.
Unlike other messaging systems, Podium can automatically generate and send out email and SMS reminders to customers about appointments. You can also access the help center to use the live chat feature.
Review features are great for increasing customer acquisition. It uses artificial intelligent to prioritize incoming mails based on customer's history. Another feature you'll love is the "Review Invitation," where you can send out limited numbers of automated reviews invitations via text. You have several options depending on your requirements: you can choose from Google Review, Facebook, Yelp or Yelp.
Podium is a great platform to enhance your online presence and build relationships with customers. But while the company offers advanced features like an inbox that's tailored for customer engagement, the price might be too high for some businesses.