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How to craft messages that get opened and clicked
SMS marketing remains one of the most powerful tools for brands to reach customers directly. With open rates often exceeding 90%, the potential to engage and convert is huge! But only if you know how to craft the right message.
In this blog, we’ll share the top 10 best practices for SMS marketing that drive higher engagement, from writing compelling copy to timing your sends perfectly.
1. Keep It Short and Sweet
SMS has a strict 160-character limit. That means you must communicate your message clearly and concisely. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point. Remember, people check their messages on the go, respect their time.
2. Personalize Your Messages
Personalization boosts engagement significantly. Use your subscriber’s name or reference their past behavior when possible. For example, “Hi Sarah, don’t miss 20% off your favorite shoes today only!” feels way more relevant than a generic blast.
3. Include a Clear Call to Action (CTA)
Every SMS should include a clear CTA. What action do you want the recipient to take? Whether it’s “Shop Now,” “Reply YES to claim,” or “Click here for your discount,” a direct CTA guides users toward conversion.
4. Send at the Right Time
Timing impacts engagement rates. Avoid sending messages during odd hours or when people are likely busy. Late mornings and early evenings on weekdays typically perform best. Test your audience’s preferences to find the sweet spot.
5. Segment Your Audience
Not all subscribers are the same. Segment your list based on demographics, purchase history, or engagement levels to send targeted, relevant messages that resonate better than generic blasts.
6. Offer Exclusive Deals
Make your SMS list feel special by sharing deals and offers not available anywhere else. Exclusive discounts or early access motivate people to stay subscribed and engage regularly.
7. Use Emojis Sparingly
Emojis can add personality and grab attention but use them thoughtfully. Too many can look unprofessional or spammy, while the right emoji can reinforce your message and tone.
8. Make Opting Out Easy
Always include an easy way for subscribers to opt-out. This builds trust, respects their preferences, and keeps your list clean and engaged.
9. Test and Optimize
SMS marketing is not one-size-fits-all. Run A/B tests on your copy, CTA buttons, send times, and frequency to discover what your audience responds to best.
10. Stay Compliant
Follow all legal regulations such as TCPA and GDPR. Get explicit consent before messaging, include opt-out info, and keep your data secure. Compliance builds long-term trust and avoids costly fines.
When done right, SMS marketing can become your brand’s strongest engagement channel. Keep your messages clear, personalized, and relevant, and watch your open and click rates soar.
Ready to start crafting winning SMS campaigns? Let’s make every message count!