SMS Follow-ups: The Power of Instant Communication

Gaining Compliant Consent (Opt-in)

Before sending a single text, you must get explicit, unambiguous consent from your customers. SMS is a highly personal channel, and regulations (like TCPA in the US) are very strict. Building your list the right way is crucial for long-term success and for building a foundation of trust with your audience.

• Explicit Checkbox: The most common method is an unticked checkbox during the checkout process with clear language, like 'Sign up for order updates and exclusive offers via SMS.'
• Dedicated Opt-in Forms: Use popups or landing pages specifically designed for SMS list growth.
• Keyword Opt-in: Encourage users to text a specific keyword (e.g., 'JOIN') to your number.
• Clear Disclosure: Always be transparent about what kind of messages you'll send and how often.

High-Immediacy Abandoned Cart Recovery

With open rates often exceeding 90%, SMS is an incredibly powerful tool for cart recovery. While email is effective, a text message sent 30-60 minutes after abandonment can create a sense of urgency that email can't match. It's a direct, immediate reminder that often gets acted upon instantly.

An Effective SMS Flow:

• Message 1 (30-60 mins after): A simple, helpful reminder. 'Hi [Name], it looks like you left something behind at [Brand Name]. Your cart is saved for you here: [Link]'
• Message 2 (24 hours after, optional): If the cart is still abandoned, consider a follow-up with a small incentive. 'Still thinking it over? Here's 10% off to complete your order: [Link]'

Time-Sensitive Promotions & Flash Sales

SMS is the ultimate channel for promotions that require immediate action. Its instant nature makes it perfect for driving traffic and sales in a short window of time. This is where you can leverage the channel to create excitement and exclusivity for your most engaged subscribers.

• Flash Sales: Announce a sale that lasts for only a few hours. 'FLASH SALE: 25% off everything for the next 3 hours only! Shop now: [Link]'
• New Product Drops: Give your SMS list early access to new products before they are announced to the general public.
• Event Reminders: Remind subscribers about an upcoming online event or the final hours of a major sale.

Transactional & Shipping Updates

Using SMS for transactional messages provides immense value and improves the post-purchase customer experience. These are not promotional messages; they are helpful updates that customers appreciate. This builds trust and can significantly reduce 'Where is my order?' (WISMO) inquiries to your support team.

High-Value Transactional Texts:

• Order Confirmation: 'Thanks for your order, [Name]! We've received it and will let you know when it ships. View order: [Link]'
• Shipping Confirmation: 'Good news! Your order from [Brand Name] has shipped. Track it here: [Link]'
• Delivery Confirmation: 'Your package from [Brand Name] has been delivered. We hope you love it!'