SMS Event Reminders That Actually Work
TL;DR:
- SMS reminders cut event no-shows by getting essential details directly to attendees
- Include event time, location, contact info, and helpful links like Google Maps
- Send one reminder the day before and another a few hours ahead of the event
- Keep messages short, clear, and include the attendee's name when possible
- Schedule reminders in advance through your SMS platform to automate the process
SMS reminders work because they land directly in people's pockets. Unlike emails that sit unopened or social media posts that get buried, text messages get read within minutes of arriving.
The key is making your reminders useful rather than annoying. Pack them with the information people actually need, send them at the right moments, and you'll see fewer empty seats at your events.
What Goes in an Effective SMS Reminder
Your SMS reminder needs to answer the basic questions running through an attendee's mind: when, where, and what if something goes wrong.
Event time and date should be crystal clear. Write "Thursday 15th March, 2:00 PM" rather than "tomorrow afternoon." People check messages at different times, and clarity prevents confusion.
Location details matter more than you think. Include the full venue address, not just the building name. Adding a Google Maps link saves attendees the hassle of copying and pasting addresses into their map apps.
Contact information gives people an escape route. Include a phone number or email where they can reach someone if they're running late or can't find the venue.
Consider adding practical extras like parking information, entry instructions, or links to the event agenda. These details reduce the number of last-minute questions you'll field.
Getting Your Timing Right
Send too early and people forget. Send too late and they've already made other plans.
Day-before reminders work well for most events. They give attendees enough notice to plan their day around your event without the message getting lost in the noise of daily life.
Same-day reminders serve as the final nudge. Send these 2-4 hours before the event starts. Earlier than that and people might still make other commitments. Later and they won't have time to adjust their plans.
For critical events, consider a third reminder 30 minutes beforehand. This works particularly well for online events where people might be juggling multiple browser tabs and notifications.
Adding a personal touch makes your message stand out. Including the attendee's name takes seconds to set up in most SMS platforms but makes the message feel less like mass communication.
Making SMS Reminders Part of Your Workflow
Most event management systems can connect with SMS platforms through APIs. This lets you automatically trigger reminders based on your event schedule rather than manually sending messages each time.
Set up your reminder templates in advance. Create standard formats for different event types, then customize the specific details for each occasion. This saves time and ensures consistency across your communications.
Track which reminders get the best response rates. Some audiences prefer more notice, others respond better to last-minute nudges. Adjust your timing based on what works for your specific events and attendees.
FAQs
How do I connect SMS reminders to my existing event management system?
Most SMS providers offer APIs that integrate with popular event platforms. Check your event management system's integrations page or contact their support team for specific setup instructions.
What's the ideal length for an SMS event reminder?
Keep messages under 160 characters when possible. If you need more space, prioritize the essential information (time, location, contact) and consider sending additional details in a follow-up message.
Should I send reminders for free events too?
Yes. Free events often see higher no-show rates because attendees feel less committed. SMS reminders help maintain engagement and respect for people's time regardless of ticket price.
Can I include images or attachments in SMS reminders?
Standard SMS only supports text. If you need to include images, maps, or documents, use links that direct people to a mobile-friendly webpage with the additional information.
Jargon Buster
SMS (Short Message Service) – Text messaging between mobile phones, limited to 160 characters per message.
API (Application Programming Interface) – A way for different software systems to communicate and share data automatically.
No-show rate – The percentage of registered attendees who don't turn up to an event.
Automation trigger – A preset condition that automatically sends a message, like "send reminder 24 hours before event start time."
Wrap-up
SMS reminders work because they meet people where they already are – checking their phones throughout the day. The difference between a good reminder and a great one comes down to including the right information and sending it at moments when people can actually act on it.
Focus on being helpful rather than promotional. Your goal is making it easier for people to attend, not convincing them to show up. When you nail the basics of timing and content, you'll see the impact in your attendance figures.
Learn about QuickSMS: https://www.quicksms.com/