If you feel SMS marketing isn’t getting you the desired results, you might just need to change your strategy or approach.
Contrary to popular belief, SMS is a highly effective marketing channel because it allows you to speak directly to your audience. For this reason, it can drive immediate action.
So, how can you make SMS marketing work for you the way you want it to? That’s where we come in.
Take your messages and marketing tactics to the next level by incorporating these tried and tested SMS strategies.
Did you know that text messages have a 98% open rate? It beats emails, which only have a meager 21.33% rate of getting opened. These figures indicate that SMS marketing is a straightforward way to get your messages through the front door.
So why the high open rates? There are numerous reasons, but it all comes down to:
In short, you’re sleeping on one of the simplest and most direct ways to reach audiences if SMS marketing is on your back burner.
Now, let’s talk about some proven strategies that will maximize your open rates and conversions.
To get the most out of the limited characters each message can have, keep your texts to the point. An easy way to do this while making an impact is to use language that speaks directly to your customers’ needs and desires.
Instead of saying, “We have a sale,” try, “Grab 50% off your favorite products today!”
See the difference?
One feels like a broadcast, while the other feels like a personal invitation.
Nobody wants to receive a marketing text at 11 PM or during their morning commute. That’s why we recommend understanding your specific audience’s daily rhythms.
Think about it:
A restaurant might succeed by sending lunch specials around 11 a.m., while a clothing boutique might see better engagement in the early evening when people are planning their outfits for the next day.
Customers love to feel understood and heard. That’s why your messages should contain some form of personalization, such as the recipient’s name. It’s also very valuable to reference past purchases or the recipient’s inquiries.
This point goes back to what we said about clear and concise messaging. Calls to action need to be crystal clear and irresistible enough for your readers to take action.
Words like “Limited time,” “Exclusive offer,” or “Today only” create a sense of urgency that can dramatically boost conversion rates.
You can also make it easy for recipients to take the next step, whether that’s clicking a link, using a promo code, or making a quick reservation.
Yes, SMS is a versatile addition to your digital marketing toolkit. But still, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach for messages, especially when used across industries. Luckily, we’re here to give you some tips on using SMS for application and industry-specific goals.
Let’s start with promotions and flash sales. For these types of messages, you’ll want to create buzz and a sense of urgency around your offerings (think limited offers).
Do you run an appointment-based business? If you do, friendly reminders are the way to go. Text reminders not only make life easier for your clients but also reduce no-show rates. When you don’t get a response, don’t be afraid to bring out the big guns with last-minute booking or confirmation opportunities.
After you’ve delivered your services, invite your customers to share their thoughts. Feedback forms and reviews play a crucial role in this process. By utilizing customer feedback, you can enhance your social proof and improve where needed.
Remember to stay compliant when leveraging SMS marketing. Many businesses get tripped up in this area and pay the price.
To stay impactful and compliant, follow these best practices.
Before sending a message, get explicit permission through a simple opt-in process during purchase or signup. This step removes your liability since the client is willing to receive your messages by signing up.
Text blasts can easily annoy people, so every text needs an easy opt-out option, such as “Reply STOP to unsubscribe.” This is a key practice because it shows that you respect your customers' choices and boundaries.
You’ll also want to watch how frequently you send messages. According to experts, the ideal number of monthly texts should be between four to five messages.
So, how do you know if your SMS marketing delivers the right results? This is where measurements come in. More specifically, we mean KPIs like:
Platforms like Twilio and Klaviyo can help you track these metrics and refine your approach.
SMS marketing doesn’t have to be complex. You only need to follow the tips we’ve shared here and track your success.
Are you ready to boost your engagement and drive immediate action? Contact Connection Model today to develop an SMS marketing strategy tailored to your business goals!