SMS Marketing for Event Promotion
TL;DR:
- Send SMS reminders 24 hours before your event to keep it front of mind
- Use text messages for real-time updates like venue changes or parking info
- Include short links to tickets, RSVP pages, or event details in your messages
- Follow up after events with thank you messages or feedback requests
- Keep messages under 160 characters and always get consent before texting
SMS gets read faster than any other channel. Most people check text messages within three minutes of receiving them, making it perfect for event communications where timing matters.
Why SMS Works for Events
Text messages cut through the noise. While emails sit in inboxes and social posts get buried in feeds, SMS lands directly on someone's phone screen. The open rate for text messages hovers around 98%, compared to 20% for email.
Events need immediate attention. Whether you're announcing a last-minute speaker change or reminding people about tomorrow's workshop, SMS delivers information when people actually need it.
Getting Your Timing Right
Day Before Reminders
Send a reminder 24 hours before your event. Include the essential details: time, location, and what to bring. This single message can boost attendance by 20-30%.
Event Day Updates
Use SMS for urgent information on the day itself. Venue changes, parking updates, or weather-related announcements work well as text messages. People check their phones constantly on event days.
Post-Event Follow Up
Send a thank you message within 24 hours of your event ending. This keeps the experience fresh and opens the door for future events. You can also use this message to share photos, recordings, or feedback forms.
Making Your Messages Work Harder
Short links are your friend. SMS platforms let you create trackable short links that save characters and give you data on who's clicking through. Use them for ticket sales, registration pages, or event details.
Some platforms support interactive buttons for RSVPs or quick responses. These work well for smaller events where you need accurate headcounts.
Keep essential information in the message itself. Don't make people click a link just to find out what time your event starts. Put the key details in the text and use links for additional information.
Writing Messages That Get Results
Get straight to the point. You have 160 characters to work with, so every word counts. Lead with the most important information first.
Use clear calls to action. "Reply YES to confirm" or "Click here for directions" tells people exactly what you want them to do.
Personalisation helps, but don't overdo it. Using someone's first name can increase response rates, but avoid anything that feels creepy or overly familiar.
FAQs
Can I schedule SMS messages in advance for event promotions?
Yes, most SMS platforms let you schedule messages days or weeks ahead. This helps you plan your entire event communication timeline without having to remember to send each message manually.
Is it possible to personalise SMS messages for event promotions?
Absolutely. You can include names, event preferences, or other custom fields in your messages. Just make sure your personalisation adds value rather than feeling invasive.
What are some best practices when using SMS for event promotions?
Always get explicit consent before texting someone. Keep messages short and focused on essential information. Send messages at reasonable times (9am-8pm typically works best). Include an easy way to opt out of future messages.
Jargon Buster
SMS: Short Message Service – the technical name for text messaging on mobile phones.
RSVP: "Répondez s'il vous plaît" – French for "please respond." Used to request confirmation of attendance.
Character Limit: SMS messages are typically limited to 160 characters. Longer messages get split into multiple texts, which can look messy.
Short Links: Compressed URLs that take up fewer characters in your message while still directing people to the right webpage.
Wrap-up
SMS marketing gives you a direct line to your audience when it matters most. The combination of high open rates and immediate delivery makes it ideal for event communications. Focus on timing your messages well, keeping them concise, and always providing value to your recipients. When done right, SMS can be the difference between a half-empty room and a packed event.
Learn about QuickSMS: https://www.quicksms.com/