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RetentionReviewed September 5, 2026

What is SMS Marketing?

SMS marketing is sending marketing messages, like offers, reminders, restock alerts and updates, by text message to people who have agreed to receive them.

Why it works

Texts are short, land straight on the phone and are usually read quickly. That makes SMS strong for time-sensitive messages like flash sales, appointment reminders and last-minute openings.

Consent comes first

In the US, marketing texts generally need the recipient's prior written consent under the TCPA, and every message should explain how to opt out, like replying STOP. Business texting from regular 10-digit numbers also requires carrier registration, known as A2P 10DLC.

Writing good texts

Name your business, keep it short, make one clear offer and include a link or a simple reply action. Send at sensible times and don't text too often.

Why SMS Marketing matters

SMS reaches customers faster than almost any other channel. Used with care, it brings back repeat buyers and fills last-minute gaps, but careless texting leads to opt-outs, complaints and legal risk.

Filling empty slots by text

A hair salon texted opted-in clients when same-day appointments opened up. Many slots that would have gone empty were booked within the hour.

Common mistakes

  • Texting without consent

    Messaging people who never opted in risks fines and carrier blocks. Collect clear consent first.

  • Sending too often

    Daily promos drive unsubscribes. Save texts for messages that matter.

  • No opt-out instructions

    Make it easy to stop messages. It is expected and builds trust.

Where we work on this

Applied, not theoretical

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