Customers want quick and simple solutions today. SMS marketing has become a powerful tool for businesses to connect directly with their audience. SMS messages have open rates as high as 98% as reported by Forbes and response rates much higher than email. This means SMS campaigns can significantly improve your customer engagement strategy. Whether you run a small business or a large company, using SMS marketing effectively can help you build better relationships with customers, increase sales, and create personalized experiences for your audience.
Why SMS Marketing Matters for Businesses
Great Engagement Rates
SMS messages are opened 98% of the time, while only about 20% of emails are opened. About 90% of SMS texts are read within 3 minutes of arrival. Two-way SMS allows real-time conversations with customers, creating a direct connection.
High ROI and Low Cost
Businesses earn around $16.70 for every $1 spent on SMS marketing. Sending a text usually costs less than paid ads or cold calls. Automated SMS tasks, such as welcome messages or cart reminders, often deliver strong returns.
Personalization & Segmentation
Segmented SMS campaigns can engage up to 83% more people than generic messages. With AI and CRM tools, you can send targeted messages based on customer actions, location, or purchase history. Personalized SMS campaigns see up to 35% higher engagement.
Speed and Immediacy
SMS messages arrive instantly, making them ideal for time-sensitive offers, reminders, or flash sales. Customers often respond quickly, whether redeeming a coupon or confirming an appointment.
Building Customer Loyalty
Regular, personalized SMS messages help build relationships. Use texts for order updates, loyalty rewards, or check-ins. Low opt-out rates, often under 5%, show strong trust when campaigns are managed well.
How to Create an Effective SMS Marketing Campaign
Build a Clean and Compliant Subscriber List
- Ask customers to opt in explicitly. This protects you legally and builds trust.
- Keep your data clean: check phone numbers and regularly remove inactive or invalid contacts.
- Follow relevant rules (like TCPA in the US), especially when using AI or automated texting.
Segment Your Audience
- Use customer data (like purchase history, location, and behavior) to create meaningful groups.
- Tailor your messages: different segments may want different content, such as promotions, reminders, or survey invitations.
- Use automation and AI tools to help manage segments efficiently.
Craft Clear and Engaging Messages
- Keep texts short, clear, and focused on action. Include a direct call to action (CTA).
- Create urgency when necessary (“Offer ends tonight!” or “Limited slots left”), but don’t overdo it.
- Personalize messages with names (“Hi [Name]”), and use emojis if appropriate. Maintain a friendly yet professional tone.
Choose the Right Timing and Frequency
- Try different times and days for sending messages. Many businesses send SMS 2–3 times per week.
- Avoid sending messages too early or too late. Respect customers’ time.
- Provide consistent value, not just promotional texts. Include surveys, order updates, or helpful reminders.
Enable Two-Way Conversations
- Allow replies: encourage customers to ask questions, give feedback, or confirm actions. Real engagement happens when SMS feels like a conversation.
- Use AI or chatbots to manage responses, but keep the tone friendly.
- Monitor replies and follow up when needed. Don’t treat SMS as just a one-way channel.
Measure and Optimize Performance
- Track important metrics: open rates, click-through rates (CTR), conversion rates, and opt-out rates.
- Use A/B testing: test different message content, sending times, and CTA wording to see what works best.
- Refine your campaigns based on insights: drop weak performers, focus on high-engagement segments, and adjust your frequency.
Voice Search Optimization (VSO) for SMS Marketing
As more people use voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, it’s important to adjust your SMS marketing content for voice search.
First, use conversational keywords. Think about how someone might ask questions out loud, like “How do I sign up for business SMS alerts?” or “Text me deals from [Brand].”
Next, create an FAQ section for SMS on your website. Include answers to questions like “Can I unsubscribe from SMS?” or “Why are you sending me texts?” These questions are common and will likely be spoken.
Also, use structured data or schema. This helps organize your FAQ pages so voice assistants can find and read your content better.
Finally, promote opt-in options using voice channels. Encourage customers on your website or ads to “text JOIN to [Shortcode].” People naturally say this when they interact through voice.
Conclusion
SMS marketing helps businesses engage customers quickly and effectively. With fast delivery, high open rates, and strong returns, it’s clear why many companies choose SMS as a key part of their marketing strategy. Sign up on EgoSms now to get started!