How to Add SMS Marketing to Your Strategy

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—meet your clients where they are. And more often than not, they’re on their phones. Our devices are practically extensions of ourselves, so why not use that to your advantage?

SMS marketing (aka text message marketing) is one of the easiest, most direct ways to connect with your audience. It’s fast, personal, and ridiculously effective.

Text messages have a 98% open rate on average. That’s not a typo. Compared to emails (which average around 20%), SMS blows other channels out of the water. Most texts are read within minutes (if not seconds), so if you have something time-sensitive to share, this is the way to go.

Plus, SMS marketing is personal. And because your message lands alongside texts from friends and family, it feels more human—something every brand can benefit from.

1. Start Smart: Collect Opt-Ins the Right Way

Before you send your first text, make sure you’ve got permission. Use pop-ups, emails, or checkout prompts to collect opt-ins. Be clear about what they’ll get and make opting out easy.

Pro Tip: Sweeten the deal with a discount code or freebie to boost sign-ups.

2. Make Subscribers Feel Like VIPs with Exclusive Offers

Treat your SMS list like your inner circle with early access to sales, new arrivals, or special perks. This drives urgency and rewards loyal customers. 

Example:  “Hey Jenna! Just for you—early access to our summer sale. Take 20% off through midnight! 🌞 Shop now: [link]”

3. Promote Product Launches and Restocks

Got something new or just restocked a fan favorite? Let your SMS subscribers be the first to know.

Example: “They’re back! Our best-selling candles just restocked—snag yours before they sell out again: [link]”

4. Send Personalized Offers and Reminders

Use what you know about your customers (purchase history, location, or interests) to send relevant messages. Think birthday discounts, back-in-stock alerts, and appointment reminders.

Example: “Friendly reminder! Your appointment with Glow Spa is tomorrow at 2pm. Can’t wait to see you! 💆”

5. Nudge Those Abandoned Carts

Sometimes people just…forget. A quick SMS nudge can recover lost sales fast.

Example:  “Oops—you left something behind! Finish your order now and get 10% off. Just for today. 🛍️ [link]”

6. Ask for Reviews Without It Feeling Awkward

Following up after a purchase or service with a quick, friendly message. This simple act can be the difference between crickets and five stars.

Example:  “Thanks for your working with us, Brian! Mind leaving a quick review? [link]”

7. Support Your Other Campaigns

SMS plays well with others. Use it to amplify your email, social media, or website campaigns. Running a contest? Hosting an event? Published a new blog post? A well-timed text can boost engagement across the board.

Example: “New blog alert! Check out 5 easy ways to refresh your space this spring 🌿 Read now: [link]”

Text and email work better together than apart. Use email for longer-form content, updates, or visuals and SMS for quick nudges, time-sensitive promos, or reminders. Example:

Email: “Here’s everything you need to know about our summer collection.”
SMS: “Don’t miss out—20% off ends tonight! ☀️ [link]”

If you’re looking for a smart, easy way to boost engagement and connect with your audience in real time, SMS is where it’s at.

At Firefly Marketing, we make marketing make sense. If you’re curious about how SMS can work for your business (and don’t want to do it alone), we’re here to help.