Many businesses know it costs up to five times more to gain a new customer than to keep an existing one. However, few take advantage of the simple and affordable follow-up SMS offers. SMS messages have open rates of about 98% (Forbes,2024) and response rates of up to 45% (SAP Emarsys). This means people not only see the messages but also act on them quickly. SMS can help remind, reward, or re-engage customers, leading to repeat purchases that other channels cannot achieve. Let’s look at how your business can turn one-time buyers into loyal supporters.
Why Follow-Up SMS Offers Work
1. High Open and Response Rates
SMS campaigns have a 98% open rate, while emails only average 20–25%. Most SMS messages are read within three minutes. Plus, response rates for SMS can be higher than 45%, making it a fast and effective way to connect with past customers.
2. Faster Purchase Decisions
SMS not only gets noticed; it also prompts action. Quick offers encourage customers to buy now instead of later. Whether it’s a restock alert or a special promotion, SMS helps speed up buying decisions.
3. Boosts Other Marketing Channels
Following up an email or social media post with an SMS reminder can increase conversions by 20–30%. SMS acts as a helpful reminder that ties together different marketing efforts.
High-Converting SMS Strategies for Repeat Buyers
1. Win-Back Automations
Re-engage customers who haven’t bought anything in 30 to 60 days with a friendly “We Miss You” text and a special offer that expires soon. These messages help bring back customers by sparking their interest.
Pro Tip: Start with gentle reminders at 30 days, then make the offer stronger after 60 days.
2. Cross-Sell and Upsell Offers
Increase sales by suggesting related or premium products after someone makes a purchase. Act quickly, send these offers within days to stay relevant.
Pro Tip: Use smart targeting to match suggestions to buyer habits.
3. Loyalty & VIP Rewards
Make loyal customers feel special with exclusive offers, like VIP discounts or reward notifications. These messages help build loyalty and encourage more purchases.
Pro Tip: Highlight special access to create a “members-only” feeling.
4. Reorder Reminders
These messages are great for items that run out quickly. Automated reorder texts keep your brand in customers’ minds and make shopping easier. Send them based on how often people use the product.
Pro Tip: Include a one-tap link for easy reorders.
How to Craft SMS Offers That Convert
1. Use Clear Calls to Action and Create Urgency
Use straightforward phrases like “Tap to claim,” “Shop now,” or “Use code SAVE10.” Add Urgency with phrases like “Ends tonight” or “24 Hours Only” to encourage quick responses.
Why it works: Clear calls to action with a time limit can make people act quickly because they don’t want to miss out.
2. Personalise Your Messages
Avoid generic messages. Use the customer’s name and tailor offers based on what they have bought before or their behaviour.
Example: “Hi Lisa, your favourite red lip balm is back! Get it before it sells out again.”
Why it works: Personalised messages can increase engagement by over 35%.
3. Follow Legal Guidelines
Always ask for permission before sending SMS messages. Include opt-out instructions like “Reply STOP to unsubscribe,” and follow GDPR and local laws.
Why it matters: Following the rules helps protect your brand and keeps your audience responsive.
Measuring Success: Key Metrics to Track
To get the best results from your SMS follow-up strategy, focus on these important metrics:
Repeat Purchase Rate: This shows how often customers come back to buy again.
Click-Through Rate (CTR): This measures how many people engage with your SMS content.
Conversion Rate: This tells you how many recipients take action, like making a purchase.
Customer Lifetime Value (CLV): This indicates the total revenue you can expect from each customer over time.
Return on Investment (ROI): SMS marketing can return $71 for every $1 spent, making it one of the most effective digital marketing methods.
A/B Testing Tips:
Improve your approach by trying out:
– Different message wording
– Various types of offers (such as discounts or free shipping)
– Different times and frequencies for sending messages
Why It Matters: Regular testing helps you find out what works best for your audience.
Conclusion
Follow-up SMS offers are about more than just sending texts. They focus on timing, targeting, and building trust with your customers. When done well, these messages keep your brand in people’s minds, strengthen customer relationships, and increase your profits. If you want to start a follow-up SMS campaign for your business, you’re in the right place. Sign up for EgoSms, start small, segment your audience wisely, and test everything.