Why SMS is still an effective channel in 2024.
Contents
Despite the rising popularity of in-app notifications and new conversational messaging platforms, SMS continues to play a crucial role in omnichannel strategies due to its unparalleled reach, reliability, and effectiveness. With over 18.5 billion text messages sent globally each day, SMS remains one of the most powerful channels for communicating with customers and prospects.
We will explore the numerous reasons why SMS is such an effective communication channel. Additionally, we'll provide tips on crafting SMS copy that drives conversions and enhances ROI.
Why is SMS still effective?
SMS has been around for over 23 years and continues to thrive alongside newer messaging apps. Here’s why it remains a powerful tool:
Ubiquity: Every mobile phone, including basic models, supports SMS, ensuring widespread accessibility.
Instant delivery: Messages are delivered instantly, regardless of internet connectivity, ensuring prompt communication.
Familiarity: Nearly everyone with a mobile phone understands and uses SMS regularly.
Increased usage of phones: Users in the UK spend around 3 hours a day on their mobile phones, and check their phones over 60 times a day.
High engagement: SMS boasts remarkable open rates of up to 98%, making it ideal for urgent or time-sensitive messages.
Tips for writing SMS copy that drives conversions
Effective SMS content can often be the key difference between a successful and unsuccessful campaign. Put simply, a carefully written SMS has the power to enhance engagement and increase conversions. Utilize these tips to create compelling SMS copy in 160 characters or less.
Stick to one idea per message
Research from the Technical University of Denmark indicates that our attention spans are shrinking due to constant content exposure. Therefore, keep your SMS content focused on a single idea to ensure clarity. Avoid complicating your message with multiple ideas, promotions, or calls to action.
Use simple language
While using shorter words can save characters, use them sparingly. Always opt for clear and simple language in your SMS, spelling out words to ensure clarity. Consider using Webex Interact's SMS attachments feature to include files and convey more with fewer characters. Alternatively, manage the character limit by writing concise sentences, using emojis to enhance communication, or employing short links to reduce the space URLs take up.
Example: “Fancy an extra 10% off? Complete your purchase here https://wxint.cc/w5gfg”
Enhance your message with impactful words
Power words are persuasive terms that encourage readers to act on your call to action (CTA). When used effectively, they can greatly enhance your SMS content. Words like "discover," "save," and "enjoy" prompt customers to engage, whether by clicking a link or making a purchase. Terms such as "quick," "now," and "hurry" instill urgency, while phrases like "special," "only for you," and "exclusive" create a sense of exclusivity and importance.
Example: “Hurry, your exclusive offer ends tomorrow!"
Emphasize key words with CAPITAL LETTERS
SMS’s reach is unparalleled due to its simplicity, but that also leads to a few limitations. One such restriction is the ability to style and format. Write certain words in capital letters if you want them to jump out to the reader.
Example: “For today ONLY: 50% off EVERYTHING.”
Don’t keep your conversation one-sided
Encourage customer interaction by allowing them to respond to you. Use long codes and keywords to receive SMS, prompting them to text back to unlock special offers or promotions. Inbound messages are also a great way to build your opt-in database.
Bonus tip: Track your SMS marketing efforts closely
Monitor your SMS marketing efforts closely. Effective copywriting is just the beginning. Regularly analyze key metrics to test, measure, adjust, and optimize your SMS content for better campaign performance. Utilize Webex Interact's click reports to pinpoint the best CTAs and optimal times to send, ensuring high open rates for future messages.