SMS is one of the most effective channels to communicate with customers quickly, directly, and personally. But like any other channel, its success depends on strategy. A well-executed SMS marketing campaign can achieve open rates above 95% and response rates between 20% and 45%, numbers that are hard to match elsewhere. To reach these results, it’s crucial to know how to optimize every message you send.
In this article, we explore best practices to boost engagement in your SMS campaigns, from personalization to performance analysis. Let’s dive in!
1. Personalization: Make your customer feel unique
Personalization is one of the most powerful ways to capture the recipient’s attention. Start by using the customer’s name whenever possible.
But personalization can (and should) go further. Based on what you know about your persona – like purchase history, preferences, or behavior – adapt the content of each message to increase relevance and conversion rates.
2. Create urgency with time-sensitive triggers
Time-limited promotions are highly effective in prompting immediate action. Use expressions like “only today”, “last hours”, or “24h exclusive” to create a sense of urgency.
SMS campaigns with a clear sense of urgency tend to drive higher click-through and conversion rates, especially when linked to a compelling and relevant offer (e.g., if the customer previously bought a product in the same category).
3. Be pragmatic
An SMS should be direct and have a clear objective. Avoid lengthy messages or too much information that may confuse or lose the reader. Tips:
- Avoid technical jargon
- Stick to one clear message per SMS
- Use short sentences and appealing CTAs
4. Send at the right time
Timing is key. Sending your SMS campaign at the right moment can be the difference between a conversion and an opt-out. Suggestions:
- Send between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays
- Avoid sending outside of business hours (before 9 a.m. or after 8 p.m.)
- Test different times and days to learn what works best for your audience
5. Craft irresistible CTAs
The Call to Action (CTA) is the heart of your message. It must be clear, actionable, and convey immediate value. Effective CTA examples: “Buy now”, “Reserve your seat”, “Get your voucher”, “Join now”. Avoid vague CTAs like “Visit our site” or “Learn more”. Be specific about what the user gains by clicking the link.
6. Use short, trackable URLs
Don’t overload your text with long links. Use URL shorteners like Bitly and insert the link into your SMS platform, such as Arpoone. This allows you to:
- Save character space
- Make your message cleaner
- Track click rates and campaign performance
This tracking data helps you refine future campaigns based on real results.
7. Segment as much as possible
Avoid sending the same message to your entire contact list. Segment your audience based on behavior, location, age, interests, previous interactions, and more. Did you know that Arpoone allows unlimited segments? That makes it much easier to boost your campaign results. With good segmentation:
- Message relevance increases
- Churn decreases
- Click and conversion rates improve
8. Respect rhythm and frequency
Nobody likes being bombarded with messages all the time — it can easily backfire. So define a strategic communication cadence:
- Avoid sending more than 2–3 SMS per week (unless it’s a special campaign)
- Always offer an opt-out option
9. Monitor and optimize continuously
The success of your SMS campaign doesn’t end when it’s sent. Track results and analyze key metrics such as delivery rate, open rate, clicks, conversions, and opt-outs.
These insights are essential to understanding what worked — and what to improve in your next campaign.
10. Take full advantage of Arpoone
Want to put all of this into action effortlessly? Of course you do! 😊 With Arpoone, creating high-performing SMS campaigns is simple, fast, and smart.
- Easily edit and personalize messages
- Send at the right time with campaign scheduling
- Use pre-built templates and audience segments
- Monitor performance in real-time
- Get a 360° customer profile
Never forget: SMS marketing is not just about sending messages. It’s about building a user-centric strategy, powered by data, best practices, and a reliable platform like Arpoone — with expert support that will truly surprise you. Book a demo or start using Arpoone for free today.
