Did you know that consumers are twice as likely to prefer text messages over any other form of communication? That’s right—today’s modern customer wants you to text them. So, if text message marketing isn’t part of your strategy, it’s time to incorporate it.
In this article, you’ll learn why business text messaging is so effective, how companies can use text messaging to improve customer communication, why text messaging is the key to ending the dreaded customer chase, and we’ll even share a few templates you can make your own.
Why (and How) You Should Be Using Business Text Messaging
Why are text messages so popular among consumers? It’s very straightforward. Business texting has a 209% higher response rate than phone calls, email, and Facebook for a reason.
Instead of trailing through an oversaturated inbox or social media feed, concise text messages simply pop up, making it easy for customers to respond immediately. The modern customer craves convenience, and with text messaging, an instant connection is made and little effort is required for the customer to respond.
There are many ways to incorporate text messaging into your customer communications. Business texting can be used for:
- Transactional text messages like payment or appointment reminders
- Promotional purposes that encourage customer engagement
- New product or service announcements
- Answering frequently asked questions
- Creative campaigns that include pictures, videos, or GIFS
Text Messages Help You End the Dreaded Customer Chase
In a nutshell, business text messaging is a simple way to keep your customers in the loop and provide a smooth customer experience. The era of slow, inconvenient communication is over. Text messages are taking over.
And because text messaging makes reaching your customers so much easier, it can help you end the dreaded customer chase.
We’ve been there—trying to reach uninterested or unresponsive customers. There’s nothing more frustrating than a missed appointment, an outstanding payment, or a highly anticipated event that ends up with a less-than-average turnout. And reaching out over and over via phone or email exhausts your internal time and resources.
That’s where text reminders come in.
Text Reminder Templates to Steal
All this might seem complex, and don’t get us wrong, building an efficient text messaging strategy isn’t always easy—it can take some planning and strategizing. But trust us when we say it will be worth it.
To make things easier, here are some reminder templates to kickstart your efforts.
Text Messaging Template #1: Payment Reminders
Hi [CONTACT NAME]! It’s [EMPLOYEE NAME] from [COMPANY]. 👋
Just a quick reminder that your payment of [PAYMENT AMOUNT] is due on [DATE]. Feel free to call or text [PHONE NUMBER] with any questions. Thanks!
→Why this is effective business texting: No one likes to be caught off guard by payment due dates. Keep your customers informed about upcoming payments by sending a text message reminder a few days before the payment is due. Practical reminders like this one create a transparent and attentive customer experience.
Text Messaging Template #2: Appointment Reminders
Hi [CONTACT NAME]. 👋 You’ve got an appointment coming up. We look forward to seeing you at [COMPANY] on [DATE] at [TIME].
If plans have changed and you can no longer make it, please reschedule or cancel your appointment here: [LINK]
→Why this is effective business texting: No-shows can be a nightmare for employees and customers. And in most cases, they’re completely avoidable. By sending a text reminder a few days before appointments, you can significantly reduce no-shows. The customer doesn’t miss out on receiving your amazing service. You don’t miss out on income from reservations. Everyone wins.
Pro tip: A good business text messaging platform will allow you to schedule these kinds of reminders for hassle-free automated reminder texts.
Text Messaging Template #3: Annual Reminders
Hey there [CONTACT NAME], we’ve missed you!
It’s been a year since your last [SERVICE TYPE] appointment at [COMPANY], so you’re due another check-up to ensure everything is as it should be. Find a time that’s convenient for you through our booking link: [LINK]
We look forward to seeing you again soon!
→Why this is effective business texting: Creating a sustainable business relies on keeping repeat customers, especially if you have an appointment-based business model such as in the medical or automotive industry.
Don’t let your customers forget about you. Increase customer retention by sending scheduled text reminders that keep your business fresh in their minds.
Text Messaging Template #4: Holiday Hours Reminders
Happy Holidays, [CONTACT NAME]!
If you need to purchase some last-minute gifts, please keep in mind our updated holiday hours which you can find here: [LINK]
Our staff is ready to help you spread the holiday cheer! 🎄
→Why this is effective business texting: The holidays are stressful enough as it is. Make sure your customers know if you have updated holiday hours so they know when they can drop by. As a bonus, sending text messages during the holiday season allows you to inspire your loyal customers with ideas for those last-minute presents they need to buy.
Pro tip: To incentivize your customers to shop with you, add an exclusive discount code to these kinds of text reminders.
Text Messaging Template #5: Event Reminders
Have you marked your calendar, [CONTACT NAME]?
We just wanted to remind you that [COMPANY] is hosting [EVENT] on [DATE] at [TIME]. We hope to see you there.
Spaces are limited, so reserve your place ASAP: [LINK]
→Why this is effective business texting: Is there anything more disappointing than pouring all of your time and energy into planning an event only to find that the turnout is minimal when the big day finally arrives? With text messaging, you can make sure your customers don’t forget to attend.
Pro tip: You could even segment the contacts on your text messaging service and highlight certain benefits of the event to specific groups.
Get Started with Podium Today
The modern customer wants you to reach them via text.
When there’s something your customers need to know, text messaging ensures you get the information to them efficiently. It keeps you top of mind, keeps your customers informed, and creates opportunities for purchasing. But, if you want to streamline the process, you need the right text messaging platform on your side.
That’s where Podium comes in.
Podium makes it easy to get started with business text messaging. And, with Podium on your side, all of your customer communications will be housed under one roof, which means no more switching back and forth between platforms and struggling to stay organized.
Ready to get started? Sign up for a free, no-strings-attached 14-day trial.
