How to Use SMS to Increase Conversion and Get More Return Buyers For Your Online Business

Are you struggling with increasing your sales and getting return buyers?

Well, you’re not alone. It’s a common challenge that many businesses face.

Don’t worry. We’ve got your back.

This article will show you how to use SMS marketing to boost conversions and increase repeat customers.

We promise to keep it fun, concise, and conversational.

So, grab some coffee and let’s get started.

See: Bulk SMS Marketing: The Best Way to Fuel Your Business Growth

What is SMS marketing?

Do you know what’s short, sweet, and gets straight to the point? It is SMS.

SMS marketing uses text messages to promote products, services, or events.

And how can you use SMS marketing in your business?

Let’s find out.

How can your business use SMS marketing?

SMS marketing is like the cool kid on the block that everyone wants to hang out with. 

Why is that?

SMS marketing is a fun and effective way to connect with your customers. 

Here are seven ways your business can use SMS:

• Promotions: Give your customers a reason to smile. Send them exclusive deals and discounts straight to their phones.
• Reminders: Help your customers stay on their game with friendly SMS reminders.
• Surveys: Find out what your customers think (and avoid getting dissed) by sending quick and easy surveys via SMS.
• Alerts: Give your customers real-time updates and alerts about their orders or account activity.
• Contests: Get your customers engaged and excited with fun SMS participation contests.
• Feedback: Show your customers some love by asking for their feedback on your products or services via SMS.
• Personalisation: Send your customers personalised messages and offers based on their interests and behaviour.

SMS marketing is like that friend who always knows how to make you smile.

Let it do the same for your customers and add humour and excitement to your marketing strategy.

Why should you care about SMS marketing? How can it help your online business?

Let’s dive into the benefits of SMS marketing for your online business.

Why is SMS marketing useful for your online business?

SMS marketing is a way to cut through the noise and get your message directly into your customer’s pockets (or purses, backpacks, or fanny packs…you get the idea).

It’s like a secret weapon in your business arsenal.

Here are five reasons why:

• SMS is an effective way to reach your audience directly.
• Your message gets seen and read since SMS has a 98% open rate. 
• It’s a quick way to get a response from your customers
• SMS marketing can lead to higher conversion rates and more return buyers
• It’s a cost-effective marketing strategy.

With all of these benefits, it’s no wonder why SMS marketing is becoming increasingly popular for online businesses. 

But let’s dive into the details and explore how this can help your business.

Also Read: 4 Best SMS Marketing Software For Your Small Business

8 tips to use SMS to increase conversions and retain customers for your online business (with examples)

SMS marketing isn’t about blasting out random texts to your customers.

When used effectively, it can be a powerful tool to increase conversions and retain customers.

Here are 8 tips to help you with SMS marketing.

1. Personalise your SMS

Don’t be a robot.

Your customers want to feel like they’re talking to a real person.

So, use their name (and title if preferred), and speak in a conversational tone.

And make sure your messages are relevant to their interests.

Example: 

“Hi David, we’ve got some exclusive deals just for you! Check them out here: 1234abcxyz.link”

See how this is more personal?

2. Keep it short

Nobody likes a long, boring text message. 

So, keep your messages short, sweet, and to the point.

Make every word count.

Example: 

“Don’t miss out on our flash sale! Ends tonight. 1234abcxyz.link”

3. Use emojis

Emojis add personality to your messages and make them more visually appealing. 

But use them sparingly, and ensure they’re relevant to the message.

Example: 

🎉 “Hi, Nisha. We’re celebrating our anniversary with 20% off everything! 🎁 1234abcxyz.link”

4. Timing is everything

Timing is critical when it comes to SMS marketing.

Ensure you’re sending your messages at the right time for your customers.

You must avoid sending messages too early in the morning or too late at night.

Example:

“Good morning, Harika. Remember to take advantage of our sale before it ends. 1234abcxyz.link”

Check out our article on the best time to send promotional SMS. 

5. Make your SMS exclusive

Everyone loves feeling special.

So, offer exclusive deals and promotions to your SMS subscribers. This will make them feel like VIPs.

Example: 

“As an exclusive subscriber, get early access to our new product launch. 1234abcxyz.link”

6. Use clear Calls-to-Action (CTAs)

Make it clear what you want your customers to do.

Use clear CTAs to encourage them to take action.

Here’s an example to match: 

“Limited time offer. Get 10% off your next purchase with code SAVE10. Shop now: 1234abcxyz.link”

7. Provide value

Your customers are busy; remember that. 

So make sure your messages provide value.

Offer helpful tips, relevant information, or special offers via SMS.

Example: “Sarah, did you know our products are all eco-friendly and sustainable? Shop now and do your part for the environment. 1234abcxyz.link”

8. Test and analyse your SMS

Like any marketing strategy, testing and analysing your SMS campaigns is essential. 

Experiment with different messages, offers, and timing to see what works best for your business.

Example: “Jasmine, help us improve. Let us know your opinions on our new product line, and get 10% off your next purchase. 1234abcxyz.link”

Now, you have the right tools to harness the power of SMS marketing.

But before we go, let’s discuss some best practices to remember.

Don’t worry. We won’t bore you with a lengthy lecture.

Instead, we’ll briefly state the best practices to engage in to ensure top-notch SMS marketing campaigns.

Also Read: 35+ Interesting SMS Marketing Statistics in 2023 (+ Actionable Best Practices)

Best practices for SMS marketing

You can create successful SMS campaigns that engage your customers.

Don’t just send random messages and hope for the best.

Here are 8 best practices to level up your SMS marketing game:

• Don’t be that person who texts at 3 am as if you’re desperate. Respect customers’ privacy and preferences.
• Remember, SMS is a conversation, not a broadcast. So, personalise your messages to make them relevant and engaging.
• Segment customers based on purchase history or loyalty. No one likes to feel like just another number.
• Compliance with SMS regulations is non-negotiable. You don’t want regulatory bodies slapping you with fines.
• Continuously test and optimise campaigns, or you’ll get left in the dust of your competitors. Keep up with the times.
• Test, test, test. It’s the only way to know what works and what doesn’t.

• Personalise your messages. Your customers will appreciate it.
• And finally, don’t be spammy. No one wants unsolicited texts, no matter how amazing your deal is.

So, there you have it – 8 best practices for SMS marketing.

What is the next step?

Create and send fantastic SMS campaigns with SMSCountry

Running a successful SMS campaigns can get overwhelming. 

Ensure to keep it legal, respectful, and relevant.

Now, go and make more sales.

To do this, use the leading SMS provider, SMSCountry.

SMSCountry’s user-friendly platform allows you to create and run fantastic SMS campaigns in minutes.

Plus, our segmentation tools make it easy to target the right customers. Now you can send targeted personalised messages that drive sales.

So what are you waiting for?
Sign up with SMSCountry and get free SMS credits now or request a demo to see how SMSCountry can take your online business to the next level.