Every message you send out counts. The objective of a text message is to initiate trust and promote engagement.

Here are our top tips for composing an effective SMS for your next marketing campaigns.

1. Identify the recipient and context through personalisation

2. Identify yourself or the company clearly

3. Speak in conversational language and indicate the reason the message is being sent

4. Create an offer that provides value to the recipient

5. Add a clear call to action

6. Provide a clear opt out instruction in line with our Compliance Policy

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1. Personalisation

You can use a variable to identify the user and other context for the recipient. When you upload a list or add contacts you have the option to also upload a name. This name can be inserted automatically into the SMS message with the variable [firstname]. 

Hi [firstname], It's Kelly from Chakra Health Spa and I would like to offer you as a member 50% off your next visit if you bring a friend. Book now quoting your member number [member] Call 02 3456 7890

Reply STOP to opt-out

Their name will be inserted from the database in place of the variable. Personalising messages with names and other data creates trust.

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2. Identify yourself

As part of general SPAM compliance you must identify yourself within the message. You can do this with a Custom Sender ID or within the message itself. You should always try to provide a name that will resonate with the recipient so that they can make the connection with their relationship with your brand.

Hi [firstname], It's Kelly from Chakra Health Spa would like to offer you as a member 50% off your next visit if you bring a friend. Book now quoting your member number [member] Call 02 3456 7890

Reply STOP to opt-out

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3. Be conversational and provide context

Text messaging is a very personal medium. People that receive text messages without knowing why get very upset and it will have a serious negative impact on your brand. Be conversational and tell the recipient why they are getting the SMS message. This will add to the trust and possibility of engagement.

Hi [firstname], It's Kelly from Chakra Health Spa would like to offer you as a member 50% off your next visit if you bring a friend. Book now quoting your member number [member] Call 02 3456 7890

Reply STOP to opt-out

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4. Create value

If you get a text message without some kind of offer it will be discarded very quickly. Make sure the offer is something that they would respond to. Discounts are generally well responded to but there are other ways to provide value. eg. Free support, trial service, check-in, free report, free content etc.

Hi [firstname], It's Kelly from Chakra Health Spa would like to offer you as a member 50% off your next visit if you bring a friend. Book now quoting your member number [member] Call 02 3456 7890

Reply STOP to opt-out

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5. Add a clear call to action

I know it sounds like common sense but a lot of mobile marketers forget the most important element. The call to action. This can take the form of a reply to accept, call this number now or link to web site.

Hi [firstname], It's Kelly from Chakra Health Spa would like to offer you as a member 50% off your next visit if you bring a friend. Book now quoting your member number [member] Call 02 3456 7890

Reply STOP to opt-out

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6. Don't forget your opt-out mechanism

To comply with the SPAM Act you must provide an opt-out mechanism, you can do this in several ways but it must exist in the message. See our Compliance Policy for more information.

Hi [firstname], It's Kelly from Chakra Health Spa would like to offer you as a member 50% off your next visit if you bring a friend. Book now quoting your member number [member] Call 02 3456 7890

Reply STOP to opt-out