Keep SMS Campaigns Simple for Better Results
TL;DR:
- Short, clear texts get better engagement than complex messages
- Focus on one idea to avoid overwhelming your audience
- Simple call-to-actions make it easy for people to know what to do
- Messages under 160 characters stay concise and punchy
- Test different versions to see what works best
When setting up SMS campaigns, your biggest advantage is simplicity. People scan text messages quickly, so you need to make your point fast and clearly.
Why Short Messages Work Better
Your audience reads SMS differently than email. They're often on the move, distracted, or checking messages between other tasks. A complicated message gets ignored or forgotten.
Easy to scan: People can understand your message in seconds without having to think about it.
Clear next steps: When your message is simple, your call-to-action stands out. People know exactly what you want them to do.
No decision fatigue: Multiple offers or dense information creates choice paralysis. One clear message gets better results.
Setting Up Simple Campaigns
Start with your main goal. What's the one thing you want people to do? Buy something? Visit your shop? Book an appointment? Build your entire message around that single action.
Write your message, then cut it down. Remove any words that don't directly support your main goal. If you can say it in fewer words, do it.
Your call-to-action should be obvious. Use action words like "Shop now", "Book today", or "Call us". Avoid vague phrases like "Learn more" or "Find out how".
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't try to squeeze multiple offers into one message. Save other promotions for separate campaigns.
Avoid industry jargon or complicated terms. Write like you're texting a friend who doesn't work in your business.
Don't assume people remember your previous messages. Each SMS should make sense on its own.
Keep links relevant and obvious. If you're promoting a sale, the link should go straight to the sale page, not your homepage.
Testing Your Messages
Set up A/B tests with different versions of your message. Try varying the length, the call-to-action wording, or the offer presentation.
Track which messages get the best response rates. Simple changes like "Save 20%" versus "20% off" can make a difference.
Test sending times too. Simple messages work better when people have time to act on them.
FAQs
What's the best length for SMS marketing messages?
Aim for under 160 characters. This keeps messages to one SMS unit and forces you to stay focused.
How do I make sure my message is clear enough?
Read it to someone who doesn't know your business. If they understand what to do immediately, you're on the right track.
Can I include links in simple SMS campaigns?
Yes, but make sure the link purpose is obvious from your message. Don't make people guess where they're going.
Should I personalise simple messages?
Basic personalisation like using someone's first name works well, but don't complicate the core message.
Jargon Buster
SMS Marketing: Sending promotional or informational text messages to customers who've opted in to receive them.
Call-to-Action (CTA): The part of your message that tells people what to do next, like "Shop now" or "Book today".
A/B Testing: Sending different versions of your message to see which one performs better.
Response Rate: The percentage of people who take action after receiving your SMS.
Wrap-up
Simple SMS campaigns consistently outperform complicated ones. Focus on one clear message with an obvious next step. Your audience will appreciate the clarity, and you'll see better results from your campaigns.
Learn about QuickSMS https://www.quicksms.com/