Imagine this: your phone buzzes, and you instinctively check it. It’s a text from your favorite brand about an exclusive deal just for you. Within seconds, you’re clicking the link to shop. That’s SMS marketing in action—direct, personal, and incredibly effective.
SMS marketing has grown into one of the most impactful tools for engaging potential and existing customers and driving conversions. In this blog, we’ll explore detailed SMS marketing examples, dive into best practices, and highlight common mistakes to help you maximize its potential.
Let’s start!
Why Is SMS Marketing So Effective?
SMS marketing feels personal, immediate, and intimate. According to a 2024 survey report, around 80% of businesses now use SMS marketing software to connect with their customers, and nearly 70% are boosting their SMS budgets to keep up with its effectiveness.
Why? Because it works. In fact, 87% of businesses that use text messaging say their overall digital marketing strategies are more successful because of it.
And here’s the kicker: 91% of business owners and marketing managers agree that adding SMS to their integrated marketing campaigns leads to higher conversion rates. Texting isn’t just a trend—it’s a proven game-changer for driving results.
Here’s why SMS works so well:
- Direct Connection: Most people carry their phones everywhere. SMS ensures your message lands directly in their hands.
- Speed: Texts are typically read within minutes, making SMS perfect for time-sensitive promotions.
- Broad Reach: Unlike apps or other digital marketing campaigns, SMS doesn’t rely on internet access. As long as someone has a phone, you can reach them.
SMS Marketing Examples You Can Learn From
Looking for ways to connect with your customers through SMS? Whether you’re welcoming new shoppers or re-engaging loyal ones, these real-world examples show how businesses use texting to boost engagement and drive results.
1. Flash Sales
“Hi, Sarah! 🚨 24-hour flash sale! Everything is 40% off. Shop now: [Link] Hurry—sale ends tomorrow at midnight!”
Why It Works:
Flash sales create a sense of urgency, motivating potential and existing customers to act quickly. Including their names personalizes the message, making it feel tailored and increasing the likelihood they’ll click the link.
2. Welcome Messages
“Welcome to the [Brand Name] family! 🎉 As a thank you, enjoy 15% off your first purchase. Use code WELCOME15 at checkout.”
Why It Works:
A friendly welcome creates an immediate positive connection with new customers. Adding a discount not only encourages them to make their first purchase but also sets the stage for building loyalty. It’s a simple yet powerful way to turn new subscribers into repeat buyers.
3. Cart Abandonment Reminders
“Still thinking about it? Your favorite sneakers are waiting in your cart. Grab them now before they sell out: [Link]”
Why It Works:
Cart reminders re-engage potential buyers and existing customers who’ve shown interest. By emphasizing the risk of missing out, the message gently nudges them to complete their purchase without feeling pushy.
4. Exclusive VIP Perks
“Hi, Jamie! 🛍️ You’re part of our VIP club! Enjoy early access to our Black Friday deals. Shop now: [Link]”
Why It Works:
Customers love being treated like VIPs. This message taps into exclusivity by offering early access to sales, which helps foster loyalty and excitement for premium perks.
5. Event Invitations
“Hi Alex, join us for our grand opening this Saturday at 2 PM! RSVP here: [Link] Free drinks and giveaways await!”
Why It Works:
SMS invites feel personal and are hard to ignore. Adding a hook—like free drinks or giveaways—makes the invitation even more appealing, encouraging higher attendance rates.
6. Product Restock Notifications
“Good news! [Product Name] is back in stock. Grab it now before it sells out again: [Link]”
Why It Works:
For potential and existing customers waiting on a popular product, restock notifications are a lifesaver. These texts also help generate immediate sales by combining urgency with convenience.
7. Surveys and Feedback Requests
“Hi Mia, we’d love your feedback on your recent purchase. Take this 2-minute survey and get 10% off your next order: [Link]”
Why It Works:
Asking for feedback makes customers feel valued. Sweetening the deal with a discount boosts participation while fostering goodwill and trust.
SMS Marketing vs. Email Marketing
Should you choose SMS or email?
The truth is, you don’t have to pick just one. Both have unique strengths and combining them can yield powerful results.
Here’s a quick comparison:
SMS Pros:
- Faster delivery and higher open rates.
- Ideal for short, time-sensitive messages.
- Works well for flash sales, reminders, and alerts.
Email Pros:
- Great for detailed messages, newsletters, and promotions.
- Allows for rich media, including images and longer CTAs.
- More affordable for large-scale campaigns.
Example of Combining Both:
Send a detailed email about an upcoming event, followed by an SMS reminder the day before. This ensures your audience gets the full details upfront via email and a timely nudge later through SMS.
The Advantages of SMS Marketing
Why should SMS marketing be a part of your strategy? Let’s break it down:
1. High Engagement Rates
Texts are almost always opened, with many read within three minutes. If engagement is your goal, SMS delivers.
2. Personalization
With tools like the best SMS marketing software, you can tailor messages to include names, preferences, or past purchases. Personalization fosters trust and improves response rates.
3. Quick Turnaround
Need to announce a last-minute sale? SMS can reach your audience instantly, making it perfect for urgent updates.
4. Accessibility
Unlike ads, which require an internet connection, SMS reaches any phone. This makes it a universal tool for communication.
5. Easy Opt-Ins
Joining an SMS list is simple—customers can text a keyword to subscribe. This low barrier encourages more sign-ups.
SMS Marketing Best Practices
To maximize your SMS campaigns, follow these best practices:
1. Get Consent
Before you hit send on any text, make sure your customers have explicitly opted in to receive messages from you. This isn’t just good business etiquette—it’s the law.
Regulations like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) in the U.S. and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe strictly require businesses to obtain clear, affirmative consent before sending promotional texts.
For example, the TCPA mandates that businesses must:
- Clearly state what type of messages customers will receive.
- Avoid pre-checked consent boxes—customers must actively agree.
- Keep records of consent in case of audits or disputes.
Failing to comply can result in hefty fines, with penalties ranging from $500 to $1,500 per unauthorized message in the U.S. Similarly, GDPR emphasizes transparency and provides consumers the right to opt-out at any time.
2. Keep It Short and Sweet
Text messages are limited to 160 characters. Focus on one clear message, and make your CTA stand out.
3. Personalize Messages
“Hi [Name],” or offering products based on past purchases makes customers feel valued. The more relevant, the better the results.
4. Include a Strong CTA
Tell recipients exactly what to do: “Click here to shop,” “Reply YES to confirm,” or “Use code SAVE20 today.”
5. Timing Matters
Send texts during reasonable hours—nobody wants to be woken up at 2 AM. Consider your audience’s time zones, too.
6. Segment Your List
Divide your audience based on their preferences or behaviors. For example, send product recommendations to frequent shoppers and reminders to occasional buyers.
7. Test and Analyze
Experiment with different messages, timing, and CTAs. Use analytics tools to track performance and refine your approach.
Common SMS Marketing Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best campaigns can flop if you make these errors:
1. Sending Too Many Messages
Overloading customers with texts can feel spammy. Stick to valuable updates and space out your messages.
2. Being Too Generic
A vague message like “Check this out!” doesn’t inspire action. Be specific and provide clear value.
3. Ignoring Compliance
Different countries have different rules about SMS marketing. Familiarize yourself with guidelines like GDPR or TCPA to avoid fines.
4. Forgetting the Opt-Out Option
Every message should include an easy way to unsubscribe, like “Reply STOP to opt-out.” This is both a legal and customer-friendly requirement.
5. Skipping Proofreading
Typos or broken links can harm your credibility. Always double-check before hitting send.
Choosing the Best SMS Marketing Software
Your choice of platform can make or break your SMS campaigns. The best SMS marketing software should offer automation, personalization, and detailed analytics.
Here are a few popular options:
- Klaviyo: Great for e-commerce businesses with advanced segmentation features.
- EZ Texting: Ideal for small businesses with a simple interface and affordable plans.
- Twilio: Offers robust APIs for developers looking to create custom SMS solutions.
- Mailchimp: A user-friendly option that integrates email and SMS marketing, perfect for managing campaigns on one platform.
When choosing a platform, consider your business size, budget, and goals. Most offer free trials, so test a few before committing.
Read this next: Ultimate Guide to Klaviyo SMS Pricing: Market Confidently in 160 Characters or Less!
Getting Started with SMS Marketing
Here’s how to launch your first SMS campaign:
Step 1: Pick Your Platform
Choose a tool that fits your needs and integrates with your existing software, like a CRM or email platform.
Step 2: Build Your Subscriber List
Encourage sign-ups with clear incentives. For example, “Text JOIN to 12345 for 10% off your next order!”
Step 3: Segment Your Audience
Group subscribers based on preferences, location, or purchase history for tailored messaging.
Step 4: Create Your First Campaign
Keep it short, compelling, and actionable. Test the message with a small audience to ensure it resonates.
Step 5: Analyze and Optimize
Review open rates, click-through rates, and conversions. Use this data to improve future campaigns.
Final Thoughts
SMS marketing is more than just a buzzword—it’s a powerful way to connect with your audience in real-time. By using these SMS marketing examples and best practices shared here, you can craft campaigns that engage, convert, and build loyalty.
So, why wait? Start exploring SMS marketing today, and watch how quickly your business benefits from this direct and personal approach.
