Text messaging seems simple - simply type a message, proof read it then send it right?
Like aren't all text messages the same?
Well, not really...
There's a big difference between a good text message and a poorly written one. That's why I've put together this article though - to walk you through how to write better text messages.
Below I've listed 5 tips to follow to create the best performing text messages for your organization.
Table of Contents
1.) Short and Sweet
Effective messages are short and to the point. Kind of like that last sentence. Shorter messages are also easier to understand and reply to.
Not to mention that nobody likes to read long paragraphs of text. Instead, make it easy for your audience to glance at the message, get the gist of it and reply to it.
Just look at the example below - which text message would you be more likely to respond to?
2.) Make it Easy to Read & Understand
A message is only effective if the reader understands what it's saying. So it's important to use clear and simple language when messaging your audience.
You might understand Shakespeare but that doesn't mean your audience will...
So don't overthink it - focus on using basic words to make simple sentences. That way your message never gets mis-construed ⬅️ that's a perfect example of a word not to use 😅
Just compare these two sentences:
1.) By generating an account today, you will receive a surplus of new options next time you jump into your exclusive VIP account. Plus you get 10% off all future redemptions
2.) Create a VIP account today and get 10% off all future purchases
The second text only includes the most important information or the information that your recipient cares most about. What it lacks in detail it makes up for in clarity.
The more clear your message is, the more likely your recipient is to reply and interact with it.
3.) Avoid Abbreviations
In your day-to-day you probably receive texts with phrases like LOL or OMG all the time. But when you're texting on behalf of an organization you may want to think twice before you use common abbreviations.
We've put together a complete business text messaging etiquette guide that goes over this in more detail. You can check it out below:
Overall, it's best to tread on the side of clarity then on the side of popularity. LOL and OMG might be popular phrases but that doesn't mean every recipient knows what they mean.
4.) Include Contact Information
Texting is great but there are reasons why you may want someone to email or call you directly. In order to empower them to do so, you need to provide full contact information in the initial text.
For example, say you're running a retail business. You may want to use texting to market new promotions or advertise newly received items. But for customer service or return requests it may be preferable for customers to call a different number or email a specific address.
To make this clear, the text messages you send may include something like this:
Hey Josh, we just restocked our shelves and we're offering 10% off if you order in the next 24 hours
note: for all return request please email returns@storename.com directly
This way your audience understands when to text your business and when to call or email and you don't have to constantly balance the 3.
5) Include a Call-To-Action
To get the most out of your messages it's important to include a call-to-action at the bottom.
Call-To-Action: a piece of content intended to induce a viewer, reader, or listener to perform a specific act, typically taking the form of an instruction or directive (e.g. buy now or click here ). If you can't come up with anything good, for the content you can somewhat rely on ai content writing tools as well.
The best types of call-to-actions to use in text messaging or one's that redeem discounts, ask for online reviews or prompt the recipient to sign up for something.
Here's an example of what a call-to-action for an online review might look like:
Overall, texting is a powerful communication tool to use in your organization. With high open and reply rates it's easy to lose sight of what makes a good text message. But, by focusing on keeping your messages short, clear and meaningful more people will get value out of your messaging.
