SMS Marketing: How to Use Text Messages to Boost Sales

SMS marketing is the most direct communication channel available to marketers. Text messages have a 98% open rate (compared to 20% for email) and 90% are read within 3 minutes. If you're not using SMS, you're leaving money on the table.

Why SMS Marketing Works

Unlike email, texts land directly on someone's phone with an audible notification. There's no spam folder, no promotional tab, no algorithm filtering your message. When someone opts into SMS, they expect to hear from you — making the audience highly qualified and engaged.

Building Your SMS List

Never send unsolicited texts — it's illegal and destroys trust. Build your list with explicit opt-ins: keyword opt-ins (text "SAVE" to 12345), website forms with SMS checkboxes, QR codes in store, checkout page opt-ins for ecommerce. Always disclose what they're signing up for and how often you'll text.

Types of SMS Campaigns

• Promotional — Flash sales, exclusive discounts, new product launches
• Transactional — Order confirmations, shipping updates, appointment reminders
• Abandoned Cart — Reminder + incentive to complete purchase
• Loyalty Programs — Points updates, VIP offers, birthday rewards
• Re-engagement — Win back lapsed customers with compelling offers

Writing SMS Messages That Convert

160 characters is your limit — every word counts. Be immediately clear about who you are. State the offer or information upfront. Include a clear call to action. Add urgency where appropriate. Always include opt-out instructions (STOP to unsubscribe).

SMS Marketing Tools

Popular platforms include Klaviyo (great for ecommerce, integrates with email), Attentive (enterprise-focused), Postscript (Shopify-native), and SimpleTexting (small business friendly). Most offer A/B testing, segmentation, and automation workflows.

SMS marketing works because it's direct and personal. Treat it that way — don't spam, don't over-message, and always deliver genuine value to the people who trusted you with their phone number.