Once they give you their permission
you must respect it. Do not send them too many texts. If you send too many, they will get annoyed. Then they will opt-out. It is best to send only a few times a month. Also, you must make it easy for them to stop receiving messages. This is another important rule. You must include a clear way for them to "opt-out." For example, they can reply with the word "STOP." The law requires this.
You should also give them a reason to sign up. Offer a special deal just for signing up. For example, "Get 10% off your first order when you sign up for texts." This gives them an incentive. It makes them more likely to join your list. They will feel like they are getting a good deal. Then, when they sign up, you should send them a welcome text. This text should say thank you. It should also include the promised discount code.
Furthermore, you should make it very clear what they are signing up for. Tell them how often you will text them. Tell them what kind of messages they will get. This builds trust from the very start. People are more likely to join and stay on your list if they know what to expect. This is a key part of good marketing. Transparency is always a good thing.
Creating Messages That Get Noticed
Writing a text message for marketing is different from writing an email. Texts are short and to the point. They must grab attention very quickly. The first few words are the most important. You must tell them who you are. This is crucial because they might not remember your store. Use your store name at the start of the message. For instance, "Hi from [Your Store Name]!"
Next, you need to tell them the purpose of the message. Are you announcing a sale? Is it a new product? Be very clear and direct. Use emojis to make it more fun and eye-catching. However, do not use too many emojis. A few can help, but too many can look unprofessional. The message should also include a call to action. This is what you want them to do next. Do you want them to visit your site? Do you want them to use a code?
Also, you must include a link. Since the message is short, the link is where they will go for more info. Use a short link service to save space. A long link can look messy and take up too much of your limited character count. Make sure the link is easy to click. The link should lead to the product page or a special sale page. This makes it easier for the customer to take action and make a purchase.
Finally, remember the human touch. Write as if you are talking to a friend. Avoid stiff or formal language. Use words that are easy to understand. Keep your sentences short and simple. This will make your messages feel more personal. It will also make them more likely to be read and acted upon by your customers. The best messages feel like a friendly tip, not a big company trying to sell you something.
Advanced Tricks and Tips
Once you are good at the basics, you can try some advanced ideas. One great idea is to use segmentation. This means you divide your customer list into smaller groups. For example, you can have a group of people who love shoes. You can have another group who only buys hats. Then you can send them messages just about the things they like. This makes the marketing much more personal. As a result, it works much better.
Another advanced trick is using personalization. You can use their first name in the message. For instance, "Hi Jane, we have a special deal just for you!" This makes the message feel very special. It is no longer a mass message. It is a message just for them. Apps on Shopify can help you do this easily. They can pull the customer's name from your store data. This is a very powerful way to connect.