Podium is a customer relationship management (CRM) system designed to help businesses gain new customers and keep existing ones. It offers tools to improve communication and streamline processes, as well as track and manage leads. It provides email and SMS communications as well, but also analytics and contact profiles to each client.
Podium makes it simple to create a personalized message for any recipient, regardless of whether you're an agency owner or business owner. The service's inbox is a centralized communications hub that allows you to send and receive messages, reply to messages and manage your contacts. You can also set up a webchat widget and send automated messages.
Podium has a starter plan that is free, even though some may find its prices to be a bit steep. Plus, there's a monthly subscription that lets you pay for the number of subscribers 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 looks clean and is easy to use. You'll receive simple instructions when you log in for the first time. The knowledge base, which is part of the website's top navigation bar, can be found in the upper navigation bar. Here you can find tips to help your campaigns succeed.
Podium's unique review feature is undoubtedly one of its best features. Customers can send feedback immediately. After submitting their feedback, customers can choose which platform they would like to express their opinion. The company claims that the web chat function generates two-thirds (or more) of all leads.
Podium sends review invitations by text to encourage customers to leave reviews. After clicking on the "Review Invite", you will be redirected directly to a page that contains a short URL. Once the recipient has clicked the URL, they will be redirected directly to a review page which includes a button where they can submit their review.
Podium provides templates and other tools for its users to help them create a successful review campaign. These templates are divided into four categories. The template can be customized with the name of the customer and the phone number. It is then sent to its recipient.
Podium, unlike other messaging software, can generate and send SMS reminders and email to customers about appointments. The help center offers access to the live chat function.
This review feature can also be used to attract more customers. It uses artificial intelligence to prioritize incoming messages based on a customer's history. You can also send limited numbers of automated review invitations by text using the "Review Invitation" feature. Depending on your requirements, you can choose from Google review, Facebook, Yelp, and more.
Podium can help you build your online reputation as well as engage customers. Although the company has advanced features, such as an inbox tailored for customer engagement and a dashboard that allows for instant messaging, it might not be affordable for all businesses.