<p>SMS has been around for more than two decades. But where did it come from? It all started in 1984 when Bernard Ghillebaert and Friedhelm Hillebrand were developing a system that would make it possible to transmit messages via the telephone network.</p>

<p>Eventually, their research came to fruition during a Christmas party in 1992. That&rsquo;s when a software programmer by the name of Neil Papworth sent the <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/when-was-texting-invented/">first ever SMS text</a> over Vodafone&rsquo;s GSM network; it read &ldquo;Merry Christmas.&rdquo; Fast forward to the present and SMS is one of the most common means of communication.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>The Evolution of the Short Message Service</h2>

<p>The SMS service has come a long way ever since its advent in the early 1990s. Initially developed as a simple, text-based communication tool, it quickly became popular because of its ease of use. Over the years, advancements in mobile technology expanded the capabilities of SMS. This allowed for <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/group-chat-vs-mass-text/">group messages</a>, multimedia attachments, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rise of smartphones and internet connectivity took SMS to another level. Besides personal communication, it became the go-to tool for banking alerts, two-factor authentication, promotional messages, and other business communications.</p>

<p>SMS services eventually started facing competition following the invention of free instant messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. Despite the competition, SMS continues to be a common messaging option&mdash;although now as part of a wider ecosystem of communication tools.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Understanding SMS: What Does SMS Mean?</h2>

<p>So, what is an SMS message exactly? SMS, or Short Message Service, is a text messaging tool that allows users to send and receive short messages over a cellular network. It&#39;s a key part of mobile communications and is available on virtually all mobile phones. With SMS, users can exchange brief mobile text messages with individuals or groups. This makes it useful for personal communication, business interactions, sending standard text messages, and various other purposes.</p>

<h3>SMS Vs. Multimedia Messaging Service and Rich Communication Services</h3>

<p>SMS is different from MMS and RCS essentially in terms of content and features. While SMS only supports sending and receiving text messages, <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/mms-marketing/">MMS messaging</a> allows users to include multimedia content like pictures, videos, audio clips, and longer text messages. The name itself says it all; MMS stands for Multimedia Messaging Service.</p>

<p>RCS, on the other hand, is a more advanced messaging protocol that offers features like group chat, high-resolution images, read receipts, and typing indicators. Unlike <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-vs-mms/">SMS and MMS messages</a>, which rely on mobile networks, RCS operates over IP networks, meaning you need an internet connection. However, this allows for a richer messaging experience.</p>

<h3>How Does SMS Work?</h3>

<p>SMS works by using the signaling protocols of mobile networks to transmit short text messages from one mobile device to another. When a user sends an SMS text, the message goes to a nearby cell tower via radio waves. The cell tower then forwards the message to the <a href="https://dexatel.com/glossary/smsc/">Short Message Service Center (SMSC)</a> operated by the user&#39;s mobile carrier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The SMSC stores the message temporarily and routes it to the recipient&#39;s mobile phone. Upon receiving the message, the recipient&#39;s device notifies the user. This process normally takes place in a matter of seconds, allowing for real-time communication between users.</p>

<h2>The Role of SMS in Modern Communication</h2>

<h3>SMS Usage in Personal Communications</h3>

<p>Despite the dominance of WhatsApp, Telegram, and other instant messaging apps, the standard SMS message still plays a major role in personal communications. This is largely because of simplicity, immediacy, and universality; it&rsquo;s the go-to choice for quick and direct communication between individuals.</p>

<p>People send SMS texts to coordinate plans, share updates, or simply stay in touch with each other. Plus, it doesn&rsquo;t require both sides to have the same app because the functionality exists on their cell phones by default. Users don&rsquo;t need to have WiFi or mobile data connection, either.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>SMS Messages in Business and Marketing</h3>

<p>SMS is not limited to personal communication; it&#39;s also useful for businesses to connect and engage with their audience. Its widespread adoption and&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-open-rates/">high open rates</a> make it an effective channel for delivering offers, promotions, and time-sensitive information to customers.</p>

<p>SMS comes in handy for various business purposes and message types such as&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/order-confirmation-text-message/">order confirmations</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/text-appointment-reminder/">appointment reminders</a>, customer service notifications, and promotional campaigns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But it doesn&rsquo;t stop there. SMS marketing also allows for targeted messaging based on customer preferences and behavior. This makes it possible for businesses to personalize their communications and&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/customer-engagement/">boost engagement</a>.</p>

<p>With advanced SMS features like short codes, keywords, and&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-opt-in/">opt-in</a> and opt-out mechanisms, businesses can efficiently manage and measure the effectiveness of their SMS campaigns.</p>


<h2>SMS Features: Common Types</h2>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><strong><a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/delivery-report-for-text-messages/">Delivery reports</a></strong>: Mobile SMS services often provide delivery confirmation, notifying the sender when the message has successfully reached the recipient&#39;s device.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Read receipts</strong>: Some SMS platforms offer read receipts, indicating when the recipient has read the message.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Group messaging</strong>: Users can send SMS messages to multiple recipients at the same time, allowing for group communication.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Character encoding</strong>: SMS supports various character encodings, which allows users to send messages in different languages and character sets.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Concatenation</strong>: <a href="https://dexatel.com/glossary/concatenated-sms/">SMS concatenation</a> splits messages over 160 characters into multiple segments and reassembles them on the recipient&#39;s phone.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Storage and retrieval</strong>: SMS messages are typically stored in the user&#39;s device memory or on the network server so that users can retrieve and view them wherever they need.&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Compatibility</strong>: SMS is compatible with all mobile phones, operating systems, and network providers. Whether it&#39;s people with Apple devices or Android users, it&#39;s accessible to everyone.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2>Common Limitations of SMS</h2>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Character limit</strong>: SMS is traditionally limited to 160 characters per message, and going above that limit results in fragmentation; it&#39;s not the best solution for sending longer messages.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Dependence on network coverage</strong>: SMS relies on phone networks for transmission, so delivery can fail or be delayed in areas with poor cell signal or during network outages</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Reliance on standardized protocols</strong>: SMS operates based on standardized protocols, limiting its adaptability to newer technologies or advanced features.&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Limited security</strong>: The transmission of text messages takes place over airwaves, which puts them at risk of interception.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Cost implications</strong>: SMS messaging is most likely included in your phone plan, so unlimited texting is generally affordable. But, sending or receiving international or premium-rate SMS messages can incur additional charges.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>The SMS Character Limit</h3>

<p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-character-limit/">160-character limit</a> of SMS was initially due to technical constraints in early telecommunication systems. But it eventually became a defining feature of text message communication. This limitation was mainly a result of the transmission protocol, which reserved space for message headers and routing information within each message segment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While advancements in technology allowed for long SMS messages through concatenation and the use of Unicode characters, the 160-character limit still applies to most text messages. And although it may seem somewhat restrictive, it encourages concise and straightforward texting.</p>

<h2>Best Practices for Using SMS</h2>

<h3>Tips for Personal Use</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Keep it short</strong>: When writing SMS text messages, aim to keep the content short and straightforward for maximum clarity and efficiency.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Be mindful of privacy</strong>: Refrain from sharing sensitive information or discussing private matters via SMS considering the lack of encryption.&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Double-check before sending</strong>: Before sending messages to the recipient, take a moment to review your text for typos or grammar mistakes.&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Avoid texting while driving</strong>: To prioritize your safety and prevent potential accidents, avoid typing or reading&nbsp;SMS messages while driving your car.&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Don&rsquo;t reply to scam messages</strong>: Stay vigilant and don&rsquo;t respond to suspicious text messages&nbsp;to avoid falling victim to&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/text-scams/">SMS scams</a> or SMS phishing.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>SMS Message Strategies for Businesses</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Ask for consent</strong>: Before you text your customers, make sure they have explicitly allowed you to send messages to their phone number.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Personalize messages</strong>: Make your messages more relevant by personalizing them based on recipient preferences, behavior, or past interactions with your brand.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Provide value</strong>: Deliver useful and valuable content to recipients to maintain their interest and engagement with your&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-communications/">SMS communications</a>.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Timing and frequency</strong>: Be mindful of the timing and frequency of your SMS messages to avoid overwhelming recipients or disrupting their daily activities.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Optimize for mobile</strong>: Make sure to optimize your SMS messages for mobile devices with concise and easy-to-read content regardless of device or screen size.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Measure and analyze</strong>: Track metrics like delivery rates, open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates to measure the effectiveness of your <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-marketing-campaign/">SMS campaigns</a>.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Integrate with other channels</strong>: Use SMS as part of a multi-channel communication strategy by integrating it with other channels such as email, social media, and in-app messaging.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>Compliance and Ethical Considerations in SMS Marketing</h3>

<p>Compliance and ethical considerations are key aspects of SMS marketing, requiring businesses to engage with recipients respectfully and lawfully. There are&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/personal-text-message-privacy-laws/">text message regulations</a> like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) that businesses need to comply with. This means obtaining explicit consent from recipients before sending SMS messages and providing clear <a href="https://dexatel.com/features/sms-opt-out/">opt-out options</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Businesses must also respect recipient preferences for messaging frequency, timing, and content. You must avoid practices that the audience may perceive as SMS spam and protect confidentiality.</p>

<p>Companies should guarantee the secure and responsible handling of personal data that they collect for <a href="https://dexatel.com/guide/sms-marketing/">SMS marketing</a> purposes, in addition to being transparent about how they will use that data. Deceptive or misleading messaging tactics are off the table, too.</p>

<p>By prioritizing compliance and ethical practices, businesses can build trust with their audience, improve their brand reputation, and build positive customer relationships through their text message marketing efforts.</p>

<h2>Top SMS Providers to Keep in Mind</h2>

<h3>Dexatel</h3>

<p>Dexatel is a leading omnichannel platform provider that offers SMS technology and other communication solutions for businesses of all sizes. It provides a comprehensive suite of features like bulk SMS, virtual numbers, short link tracking, two-way messaging, campaign scheduling, and two-factor authentication&mdash;just to name a few. Dexatel&#39;s SMS API and platform are scalable and customizable, with competitive pricing and reliable delivery infrastructure.</p>

<h3>Vonage</h3>

<p>Vonage offers various communication APIs, including SMS, voice, and chat. Businesses can use the platform&rsquo;s SMS API to send personalized messages to customers worldwide, with features like delivery tracking and number validation. The company provides flexible pricing plans as well as extensive documentation and support resources for developers.</p>

<h3>Bird</h3>

<p>Bird (formerly known as MessageBird) is a cloud communications platform that allows businesses to engage with customers through SMS, voice, and other messaging channels. With the platform&#39;s SMS API, businesses can send and receive SMS messages globally while benefiting from features like two-way messaging, delivery reports, and chatbots.</p>

<h3>Plivo</h3>

<p>Plivo is a cloud communications platform that provides APIs for SMS, voice, and video communication. The platform&rsquo;s SMS API lets businesses send multiple SMS messages, automate messaging workflows, and integrate text message capabilities into their applications and systems. It also offers features such as long code and <a href="https://dexatel.com/features/dedicated-short-codes/">short code</a> support, delivery confirmations, as well as customizable messaging templates.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Amazon Simple Notification Service</h3>

<p>Amazon SNS is a fully managed messaging service by Amazon Web Services (AWS), offering SMS communication, email, and push notification capabilities. Companies and organizations can use Amazon SNS to send SMS messages to customers globally. The platform comes with features like message filtering, delivery retries, and support for mobile numbers in over 200 countries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Choosing the Right Provider: Questions to Ask Yourself</h2>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><em>Is the SMS provider&#39;s infrastructure reliable?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>Does it offer high uptime guarantees?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>What are the delivery rates and transmission speeds for both domestic and international messages?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>Can the SMS platform scale to accommodate fluctuations in message volume and handle sudden traffic increases?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>What features and functionalities does the <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-providers/">SMS provider</a> offer?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>Does the SMS provider comply with regulations and industry standards?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>What security measures are in place to protect customer data?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>How do the pricing structure and billing options of the SMS provider align with your budget and usage patterns?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>Does the <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-integration/">SMS provider offer integration options</a> with your existing systems and applications?</em></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><em>What level of customer support does the SMS provider have and how responsive is it to technical issues and concerns?</em></p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About SMS and its Meaning</h2>

<h3>What Does SMS Stand for?</h3>

<p>SMS stands for &quot;Short Message Service,&quot; which allows users to send and receive messages on cellular phones. It has gained global popularity due to its simplicity, reliability, and widespread adoption across wireless networks.</p>

<h3>What Is the SMS Protocol?</h3>

<p>The SMS protocol is a set of technical standards and guidelines that define how messages are sent and received between mobile devices and network infrastructure. The technology works by using signaling protocols within mobile networks to transmit short text messages from one device to another.</p>

<h3>Can You Integrate SMS With Other Communication Channels?</h3>

<p>Yes, you can integrate SMS with other communication channels to create a more effective and comprehensive marketing strategy. Combining SMS with email marketing, social media, or mobile apps allows you to reach customers through multiple touchpoints and engage them across various platforms.</p>

<h3>How Can Brands Adapt to SMS Trends?</h3>

<p>Businesses and organizations can adapt to SMS trends by keeping up with emerging technologies, consumer behaviors, and industry best practices. This includes using features like MMS, RCS, and chatbots to create a positive and long-lasting customer experience.</p>

Get familiar with the rich world of text messaging, including the SMS meaning, how it evolved over the years, its role in modern communications, and more.

What is SMS and How Does it Work: Meaning, Tips, and More

SMS Meaning: What is It and How Does it Work?

<p>OTP bypass attacks are on the rise, posing escalating threats to cybersecurity. Malicious actors use tactics, ranging from sophisticated phishing schemes to brute force attacks. As they refine their ways of breaching systems, you can protect your data by educating yourself with strategic defenses. Here&#39;s what you need to know.</p>

<h2>What is OTP Bypass?</h2>

<p>OTP Bypass is a sophisticated method employed by threat actors to circumvent multi-factor authentication (MFA) systems. These typically involve the use of codes sent via <a href="https://dexatel.com/glossary/otp-sms/" title="What is OTP?">OTP SMS</a> or hardware tokens.</p>

<p>By exploiting vulnerabilities in the authentication process, attackers target the user&#39;s account, often through phishing attacks or brute forcing techniques. Once access is gained, sensitive information such as one-time password (OTP) or login credentials can be intercepted. This can be achieved through various methods, including man-in-the-middle attacks or the automated interception of an SMS code.</p>

<h2>What Are the Risks of OTP Bypass?</h2>

<p>The risks of OTP bypass are manifold and pose significant threats to the security of online accounts. By intercepting the verification code, whether through brute force attacks or by exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, hackers can gain access to valid user accounts. This jeopardizes the integrity of sensitive information, including payment details and personal data.</p>

<p>The use of SMS codes and text messages for authentication purposes can expose users to phishing attempts, where cybercriminals manipulate channels to deceive victims into divulging their OTPs. Such breaches not only compromise user trust but also create opportunities for hackers to create an additional layer of attack through malware or use bots to automate these thefts.</p>

<h2>What Does an OTP Bypass Attack Look Like?</h2>

<p>In an OTP bypass attack, cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in a web application or communication channel to intercept the OTP code sent to the victim&#39;s phone number. By manipulating text messages containing one-time passwords or tokens, an attacker bypasses security measures and gains access to their personal info.</p>

<p>This poses a significant risk to customers and the integrity of their data. The attack may leverage automated tools or malware to bypass protection mechanisms implemented by the app or service provider.</p>

<h3>1. Initial Targeting</h3>

<p>The attacker identifies a target, usually a specific user account belonging to a particular service or organization.</p>

<h3>2. Information Gathering</h3>

<p>The attacker gathers information about the target, including their phone number, email address, or any other contact details associated with their account.</p>

<h3>3. Exploiting Weaknesses</h3>

<p>The cybercriminal identifies weaknesses in the authentication process, such as vulnerabilities in web applications or channels used for sending OTPs.</p>

<h3>4. Intercepting Communication</h3>

<p>The attacker intercepts the communication between the service provider and the user, particularly the transmission of OTP codes via SMS, email, or other messaging platforms.</p>

<h3>5. Manipulating OTP Delivery</h3>

<p>The cybercriminal may attempt to manipulate the delivery of OTP codes by redirecting messages to a device controlled by them or by exploiting vulnerabilities in the messaging service itself.</p>

<h3>6. Bypassing Authentication</h3>

<p>Once the OTP is intercepted or manipulated, the attacker uses it to bypass the <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-verification/" title="Everything You Need to Know About SMS Verification">SMS verification process</a>&nbsp;and gain access to the target account.</p>

<h3>7. Gaining Control</h3>

<p>With access to the target account, the attacker can potentially take over the information, manipulate account settings, or perform unauthorized actions on behalf of the user.</p>

<h3>8. Covering Tracks</h3>

<p>To avoid detection, the attacker may attempt to cover their tracks by deleting or altering their traces, such as login records or activity logs.</p>

<h3>9. Continued Exploitation</h3>

<p>In some cases, the attacker may continue to exploit the compromised account for further malicious activities, such as identity theft, financial fraud, or spreading malware.</p>

<h3>10. Ongoing Monitoring</h3>

<p>The attacker may monitor the compromised account for any valuable information or opportunities for further exploitation, maintaining access for as long as possible.</p>

<h3>11. Evading Detection</h3>

<p>Throughout the attack, the attacker employs various techniques to evade detection, such as using anonymizing tools, masking their IP address, or encrypting channels.</p>

<h2>Weaknesses in the Password Reset Function</h2>

<p>Resetting a password is no longer enough to protect your data as it can be susceptible to exploitation. Weaknesses include the reliance on text message or emails containing one-time passwords or tokens for verification.</p>

<p>These channels can be compromised, allowing attackers to intercept sensitive info. If not properly configured or protected, automated processes within an app or web page may facilitate bypassing of security protocols.</p>

<h2>The Role of Authentication Factors</h2>

<p>Authentication factors validate the legitimacy of users and devices, providing an additional layer of protection. With proper implementation and control, these factors strengthen security measures and mitigate the risk of unauthorized entry, thereby enhancing overall system security and protecting against potential threats.</p>

<h3>Where Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Comes in Handy</h3>

<p>Two-factor authentication (2FA) is invaluable in numerous scenarios where enhanced security is paramount. Examples include online <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/banking-otp/" title="How to Optimize Protection Against Fraud with Banking OTPs?">banking OTPs</a>, where a user receives a text containing a verification code after entering their password.</p>

<p>Similarly, in email services like Gmail, Google account users may opt for 2FA, requiring them to input a code generated by an authenticator app in addition to their password. eCommerce platforms often utilize 2FA during the checkout process to ensure secure transactions.</p>

<p>Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok offer 2FA. In each case, 2FA adds an extra layer of security, safeguarding user data and integrity.</p>


<h2>Strengthening the Password Reset Functionality</h2>

<p>In response to the OTP bypass, consider implementing measures such as limiting the frequency of passcode reset attempts. Require additional verification steps beyond just email or phone number and make sure that reset links expire after a certain period.</p>

<h2>Implementing Robust Two-Factor Authentication</h2>

<p>Use advanced 2FA methods and technology such as biometric authentication, hardware token, or authenticator apps alongside traditional methods like SMS codes. Regularly review and update 2FA settings, enforce strong password policies, and educate people on the importance of protecting their authentication credentials.</p>

<h2>Best Practices Detecting and Responding to Attempts to Gain Unauthorized Access</h2>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Employ multi-factor authentication to add layers of security, requiring users to verify their identity through multiple passwords, biometrics, or security tokens.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Regularly monitor user activity to detect unusual patterns or suspicious behavior that may indicate a bot attempting to gain access.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Educate your audience through informational materials like a blog post about the importance of strong authentication practices and how to recognize and report suspicious activity.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Implement automated systems to detect and respond to potential threats in real time, such as flagging suspicious login attempts or triggering additional verification steps for high-risk activities.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Continuously update and patch your systems to address known vulnerabilities and stay ahead of evolving threats from attackers attempting to exploit weaknesses in your security measures.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Establish clear protocols and procedures for responding to incidents of unauthorized access, including steps for investigating breaches, mitigating damage, and notifying affected people.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Collaborate with industry peers and security experts to stay informed about emerging threats and best practices for detecting and responding to attempts to gain unauthorized access.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Regularly review and refine your security policies and procedures to adapt to changing threats and ensure that your defenses remain effective in protecting against unauthorized access to your systems and data.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

OTP Bypass is a sophisticated method employed by threat actors to circumvent multi-factor authentication systems.

How to Detect and Prevent OTP Bypass

How to Identify and Prevent OTP Bypass

<p>It&rsquo;s safe to say that time is money when it comes to transactions. Having said that, making payments via text message is one of the easiest and most convenient methods available. Customers can make a payment anytime, anywhere, and they don&#39;t even need to deal with complex, multi-step processes. SMS payment systems are becoming increasingly popular as they are quick, secure, and effortless. The global familiarity of text messaging helps, too.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What Is an SMS Message Payment?</h2>

<p>An SMS payment is a form of transaction that&rsquo;s done using a text message. Considered a more convenient platform for many, SMS payments work by sending text messages to a short code or by using a mobile payment app. The payment is then processed through the <a href="https://dexatel.com/glossary/mobile-network-operator/" title="What Is Mobile Network Operator (MNO)?">mobile network operator</a>.</p>

<p>These payments are convenient as they can be made without the need for a physical card or cash. They are also useful for people who do not have a bank account or access to other forms of payment. This way, customers can send money and receive payments by simply having a mobile phone and an active cellular plan.</p>

<p>As a matter of fact, it is even possible to send <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-invoice/" title="How to Send an SMS Invoice to Your Customers">invoices via SMS</a>, thus making life so easy for a business and its customers. In fact, this is quite useful for small business owners and freelancers since they seek ways through which they can bill their clients efficiently and fast. The fact that one can send invoices straight through SMS means that they get paid on time without necessarily having to depend on emails or paper invoices in the first place, further smoothening the process.</p>

<p><img alt="how-do-text-payments-work" src="/images/blog/89/body/how-do-text-payments-work.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>How Do Text Payments Work?</h2>

<p>In order to complete payment by SMS, a customer first needs to register with a service provider. Once the customer&rsquo;s registration is complete, they can make a payment at any time by sending a text to a short code.</p>

<p>The SMS text will include a keyword or command as well as the amount of money that they would like to pay. The service provider will then process the payment and send a confirmation message to the customer.</p>

<p>It is important to note that text message payments are not the same as using apps or mobile wallets. With a mobile payment SMS system, the customer does not need to download anything onto their phone&mdash;they only need to have a text messaging plan. Mobile payment apps, however, require the customer to have enough space on their phone to download and make payments through the app.</p>


<h2>Top Industries That Benefit from Text Message Payments</h2>

<p>Paying via SMS is suitable for a variety of industries, including retail, food and beverage, healthcare, and hospitality. They provide a convenient and easy way for customers to pay for goods and services, and it is especially beneficial for small businesses to collect payments through mobile phones using this means of communication.</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Retail Industry:&nbsp;Retailers can make SMS payments reduce the amount of time spent processing bills, reduce the risk of fraud, and increase customer loyalty and satisfaction.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Food and Beverage Industry: Many food and beverage businesses leverage SMS text payments to streamline the ordering and payment process.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Healthcare Industry: Medical institutions can benefit from payment by text to streamline patient billing. This helps in minimizing administrative overhead and enhancing cash flow.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hotels and Lodging:&nbsp;Hospitality businesses can use text payment solutions to streamline the check-in and check-out processes and provide a convenient way for guests to pay for incidentals.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>eCommerce Industry: Besides&nbsp;eCommerce marketing, online retailers can make use of SMS to allow customers to make purchases and carry out payments via text messages.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<p><img alt="building-trust-in-pay-by-sms-systems" src="/images/blog/89/body/building-trust-in-pay-by-sms-systems.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Building Trust in Pay-by-SMS Systems</h2>

<p>But before establishing any system, businesses should be PCI compliant when having customers pay with SMS. This way, businesses can help ensure that customer information is properly secured and not vulnerable to being compromised.</p>

<p>PCI compliance can help improve customer trust in a business. Customers may feel more comfortable conducting transactions with a business that is PCI compliant, knowing that their information will be properly protected.</p>

<p>Moreover, PCI compliance may be required by some financial institutions to process payments made via text message. Therefore, businesses that are not PCI compliant may be at a disadvantage when it comes to processing these types of payments.</p>

<h2>Benefits of Payment by SMS</h2>

<p>Establishing a system where customers can carry out payments using SMS texting can prove to be highly beneficial. It&rsquo;s essentially a win-win situation for both you and your customers.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Speed and Convenience</h3>

<p>Using a pay-by-text system is incredibly fast and convenient. All your customers need is a phone, and they can make a payment in a matter of seconds. This enables them to save a great deal of time as opposed to traditional payment methods like visiting physical locations&mdash;or even having to go through the process of entering credit card details.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Secure Payment</h3>

<p>Paying for a product or service through SMS is often considered more secure than other methods of payment, such as debit or credit cards. This is because financial information is not stored on mobile devices but is instead transferred directly to the bank. Additional layers of protection, like two-factor authentication, can help prevent the risk of fraud and unauthorized access.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Low Fees</h3>

<p>Many SMS payment providers charge low or no fees for making payments, which is great compared to other methods like wire transfers or credit card payments. This cost-effectiveness makes it an ideal option for individuals and small businesses looking to cut costs associated with transaction processing.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Ease of Use</h3>

<p>Completing transactions via the Short Message Service is extremely easy and user-friendly. Even those who are not tech-savvy can easily make a payment via a short messaging service without any issues. When businesses&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/collecting-phone-numbers/" title="How to Collect Phone Numbers for SMS Marketing Campaigns?">collect phone numbers</a> to send&nbsp;SMS marketing messages, they may as well use text messaging to simplify payment processes.</p>

<h3>Familiar and User-Friendly</h3>

<p>Pay-by-SMS systems make use of a technology that practically everyone is familiar with. Needless to say, texting is a common practice, and integrating payments with this framework makes the process fairly simple. Customers won&rsquo;t need to get to grips with new software or have to deal with complex systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="best-practices-for-setting-up-a-text-payment-system" src="/images/blog/89/body/best-practices-for-setting-up-a-text-payment-system.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Best Practices for Setting Up a Text Payment System</h2>

<p>Establishing and maintaining a quality text-to-pay system involves taking a handful of measures. These include:</p>

<h3>1. Providing Clear Instructions</h3>

<p>Make sure your customers know how to make mobile payments. This means providing relevant keywords, step-by-step instructions, and anything else the user may need to conduct a smooth transaction.</p>

<h3>2. Offering a User-Friendly Experience</h3>

<p>The SMS payment system should be straightforward to use. A complicated process with excessive steps may confuse or frustrate customers&mdash;and possibly result in mistakes.</p>

<h3>3. Taking Security Measures</h3>

<p>You&rsquo;ll want to have decent security measures in place to protect transactions and sensitive customer data. This involves abiding by industry standards, using encryption protocols, and regularly monitoring and updating those protocols.</p>

<h3>4. Setting Up Personalized Responses</h3>

<p>Provide personalized auto-replies that acknowledge payment success and give updates on transaction status. Don&rsquo;t forget to include relevant payment information like account details, transfer amount, date, and time.</p>

<h3>5. Monitoring Transactions</h3>

<p>Implement tracking and reporting features that let you monitor and analyze everything from transaction volumes to possible errors. You can use the information to pinpoint trends, enhance processes, and address any problems</p>

<h3>6. Performing Thorough Testing</h3>

<p>It&rsquo;s always a good idea to test out the SMS transaction system before launching it. Consider testing different scenarios, amounts, and user journeys to pinpoint any potential bugs</p>

<h3>7. Enabling Clear Communication</h3>

<p>Offer support channels where customers can ask questions related to their transactions. Keep in mind that clear communication fosters a positive customer experience and boosts customer loyalty</p>

<h3>8. Improving As You Go</h3>

<p>Remember to continuously assess the performance of your text-to-pay system while keeping an eye out for user feedback and new industry trends. Doing so will help you adapt to evolving customer needs and expectations</p>

<p><img alt="how-to-choose-a-pay-by-text-software" src="/images/blog/89/body/how-to-choose-a-pay-by-text-software.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>How to Choose a Pay-by-Text Software</h2>

<p>To get started with a robust system that lets customers pay by SMS, you&rsquo;ll want the help of a software provider. Choosing one, however, involves considering several factors. These include:</p>

<h3>Compliance and Security</h3>

<p>You&rsquo;ll want to look for a pay-by-SMS app that is compliant with privacy, data protection, and financial regulations. This helps safeguard customer information and maintain accordance with the law. Keep an eye out for features like secure data transmission and compliance with industry standards.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Customizable Payment Keywords</h3>

<p>Opt for an application that lets you customize your payment keywords. You should be able to set up unique keywords that customers can use to make payments by SMS. Customizable keywords make the payment process more flexible and convenient for users engaging with the system.</p>

<h3>Analytics and Reporting</h3>

<p>Make sure the software you choose offers solid analytics and reporting capabilities. This lets you gain valuable insights into details like payment trends, customer behavior, and payment success rates. You&rsquo;ll be able to monitor performance and pinpoint patterns, in addition to making informed decisions to optimize the payment processing system.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Customer Support</h3>

<p>Does the software provider offer a good level of customer support and maintenance? You&rsquo;ll want customer support that you can rely on in case you have questions or come across any issues. Besides that, a reputable application will also provide maintenance, bug fixes, and regular software updates to ensure quality customer payment solutions.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Payment Gateway Integration</h3>

<p>Your text-to-pay software should integrate seamlessly with payment gateways that are popular and reliable. This enables the payment process to be fast, accurate, and reliable. Having said that, make sure to go for a gateway provider with a good reputation to guarantee a smooth customer experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="overdue-payment-reminder-sms-templates" src="/images/blog/89/body/overdue-payment-reminder-sms-templates.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Overdue Payment Reminder SMS Templates</h2>

<p><em>Hey Chris! We noticed that you haven&#39;t made a payment on your owed balance of $100. Please take care of this ASAP to avoid any late fees. Thanks!</em></p>

<p><em>Hi Mary! This is a reminder that you have an outstanding credit card balance of $200 that is overdue. Please make a payment ASAP to avoid disruption of service. Thanks!</em></p>

<p><em>Hello Jan! Just wanted to remind you that you have an overdue balance of $1200. Please make a payment at your earliest convenience. Thank you!</em></p>

<p><em>Hi Patty, this is a courtesy reminder that your payment of $300 is now overdue. Please arrange payment as soon as possible to avoid any penalties. Thank you.</em></p>

<p><em>John, we regret to inform you that your payment of $250 is overdue. Please arrange payment within the next 48 hours to avoid additional charges. Thank you.</em></p>

<p><em>Dear Sarah, this is a final reminder that your payment of $600 is overdue. We appreciate you arranging a payment immediately. Take care!</em></p>

SMS payments are the next step beyond classic online payments. Here's everything you need to know about how they work and how to use them.

What are SMS Payments and How to Set Them Up

Everything You Need to Know About SMS Payments

<p>Retail doesn&rsquo;t wait, and neither should your marketing. Whether you&#39;re announcing a sale, launching a new product, or just saying thanks, SMS templates for retail give you the head start you need to stay fast, relevant, and one tap away from your customers. With <a href="https://www.business2community.com/infographics/email-marketing-vs-sms-marketing-stats-infographic-02021390">open rates that leave email in the dust</a>, SMS marketing is how smart brands turn casual browsers into loyal buyers. The right words, at the right time, to the right person.</p>

<p>To help you make it happen, we&rsquo;ve curated 21 retail text message templates designed to grab attention, spark action, and drive results. From running a weekend sale to following up post-purchase, we&rsquo;ve got a template that fits.</p>

<p>Here&rsquo;s what you&rsquo;ll find:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Flash deals and limited-time offers</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Announcing new arrivals</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Loyalty perks and member updates</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Custom discount offers</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Invites to in-store experiences</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Back-in-stock and restock updates</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Cart reminders and follow-ups</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>Plug them into your <a href="https://dexatel.com/industries/retail/">SMS solutions for retail</a>, and start sending messages that land and move.</p>

<h2>How SMS Marketing Helps Retail Businesses Succeed</h2>

<p>A decent communication strategy can change customer behavior, and that&rsquo;s where SMS marketing for retail makes a real impact. It offers immediacy, precision, and scale that few other channels can match.</p>

<h3>1. Boosts Customer Engagement</h3>

<p>Shoppers ignore emails. They scroll past ads. But SMS gets seen in no time. With open rates above 90%, SMS templates for retail cut through digital noise and reach customers where they&rsquo;re paying attention. Promotions, product drops, and event reminders land instantly, and with the right message, they generate action. Plus, personalization (using names, preferences, or purchase history) increases click-throughs and builds stronger connections.</p>

<h3>2. Drives Foot Traffic</h3>

<p>Retail stores rely on timely footfall. A single well-timed text, like a flash sale alert or a back-in-stock update, can drive measurable spikes in in-store visits. Location-based segmentation makes this even more powerful. A customer near a specific store gets a targeted message, while someone in another region sees something else. This kind of SMS solution for retail bridges online campaigns with physical store performance.</p>

<h3>3. Increases Sales</h3>

<p>Whether you&rsquo;re selling in-store, online, or both, retail text message templates help convert interest into revenue. You can prompt checkout completions, upsell complementary products, or notify shoppers about price drops. Triggered messages based on real-time actions (like an abandoned cart) also re-engage users who might have walked away. And since texts are short and clear, they reduce friction, and it&rsquo;s easier to act instantly.</p>

<h3>4. Improves Customer Loyalty</h3>

<p>Loyalty programs only work when customers remember them. SMS marketing keeps those perks top of mind. From point updates and exclusive discounts to birthday rewards and early access, consistent texts make members feel valued. This strengthens your brand relationship and promotes repeat purchases. Loyalty templates also let you automate outreach based on activity, status, or milestones, keeping engagement stable without manual effort.</p>

<h2>Top 21 SMS Templates for Retail Companies</h2>

<h3>1. Flash Sales and Limited-Time Deals</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>⚡ 48-hr sale, Sally! Take 30% off all jackets at Zara Downtown. Ends Fri 9 PM. Show this text at checkout.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Today only, Carmen: BOGO on all sneakers at RunLab LA. Valid until 6 PM. Show this message in the store.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Last chance, Emma! Use code STYLE20 for 20% off online. Offer ends at midnight: www.luxetail.com</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>2. New Product Announcements</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Hey Ryan! Our Fall &#39;25 Capsule just dropped. Shop the new arrivals now: www.fayeandco.com/new</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>New drop, Jennifer: Vegan leather bags are finally here! Visit our Soho store or shop online today.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Just in, John: Galaxy hoodies now at Urban Axis Toronto. Limited stock, swing by before Sat.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>3. Loyalty Program Updates</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Jason, you&rsquo;ve earned 150 points! Only 50 more until your next $25 reward. Log in to check: www.roseclub.com</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Maya, early access is live! Shop the members-only sale before the public: www.wearhouse.com/vip</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Thanks for your loyalty, Ethan! Enjoy 10% off this week at Chloe Home Goods. Show this text in-store.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>4. Personalized Discount Offers</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Chloe, still want the navy trench? Take 15% off with code NAVY15. Ends Oct 28: www.trenchco.com</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Zoe, here&rsquo;s 20% off your wishlist just for you. Use code ZOE20 by Sun night: www.favfits.com</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Mark, your Levi 501s are restocked! Get 10% off now: www.denimlane.com/501s</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>5. In-Store Event Invitations</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Carla, you&rsquo;re invited! Join us for Styling Night at Reva Boutique, Melrose Ave. Thu, 6&ndash;9 PM. RSVP: reva.com/events</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Leo, don&rsquo;t miss our Fall Style Preview, Fri at 7 PM, Urban Haus NYC. New looks, music, and more.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Launch party: Air Max Origin this Sat, 11 AM @ Kicks &amp; Co Houston. Be the first to try the drop, Lucas!</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>6. Restock and Back-In-Stock Alerts</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Lily, the black ankle boots are back! Limited sizes. Shop now: www.stepstyle.com/boots</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Your favorite rosemary candle is restocked, Bella, but not for long! Order now: www.lumina.com/rosemary</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Carlos, 64 oz Hydro Flasks are back in store at AdventureX Boston. Get yours today!</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>7. Abandoned Cart Reminders</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Still deciding, Megan? Your cart is saved + free shipping until midnight: www.tilestudio.com/cart</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Sam, your running tights are almost sold out. Use code SAM10 to check out now.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Edward, finish your order by 6 PM to claim a free tote! Items selling out: www.shopflora.com/cart</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2>Using SMS Solutions for Retail Text Messaging</h2>

<p>Retail businesses operate in real time. Promotions change by the hour, inventory moves swiftly, and customer expectations are immediate. That&rsquo;s why SMS solutions for retail have become a core part of operational strategy and not just marketing.</p>

<p>A retail-focused SMS platform lets businesses automate and scale communication with precision. Scheduled messaging ensures campaigns go out at optimal times, be it right before a store opens, during peak foot traffic hours, or ahead of weekend sales. This kind of planning is critical for time-sensitive outreach like flash sales or new product drops.</p>

<p>Segmentation is another key feature. Retailers can divide their audience based on purchase behavior, location, or engagement history. A customer who frequently shops online may get a different message than one who visits in-store. This makes retail text message templates far more effective, since they speak to specific habits and preferences.</p>

<p>Dexatel&rsquo;s platform includes tools that support these strategies. You can create custom tags and fields to personalize messages automatically. That means templates can dynamically insert customer names, favorite product categories, or loyalty points balances without manual input. For chains or franchises, you can also localize campaigns by store region.</p>

<p>For teams handling high message volumes, automation decreases labor-intensive work. Triggers can be set up for specific events: restock alerts, cart abandonment, or loyalty updates. Each of these use cases can be tied to a template, which streamlines both SMS marketing for retail and operational messaging.</p>

<p>With Dexatel, you get:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Unified message management: Run all your campaigns, triggers, and responses from one centralized platform.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Precise audience targeting: Segment by behavior, location, or purchase history to make every message topical.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Robust security measures: Protect customer data with enterprise-grade compliance and encryption protocols.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Instant mass messaging: Deliver time-sensitive updates to thousands in seconds, with guaranteed deliverability.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Live data insights: Track performance in real time with advanced analytics and reporting dashboards.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Brand recognition: Use branded sender IDs to strengthen your retail identity.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2>Best Practices for Retail Text Messaging</h2>

<h3>1. Get Clear Customer Consent</h3>

<p>Before sending any text messages, you must obtain explicit customer consent. Not only is this a legal requirement in many regions (like under the TCPA or GDPR), but it also builds trust. The best way to do this is through opt-in forms on your website, during checkout, or via email marketing. Make sure your <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-opt-in/">SMS opt-in</a> clearly explains what types of messages subscribers can expect, from promotions to order updates.</p>

<h3>2. Keep Messages Short and Sweet</h3>

<p>Retail messages should be concise, clear, and straight to the point. <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-character-limit/">SMS has a 160-character limit</a>, so make every word count. Use natural language, avoid fluff, and lead with the offer or the purpose. Texts like &ldquo;Today only: 25% off sitewide. Use code SPRING25. Ends at 10 PM.&rdquo; work far better than long, paragraph-style messages. Customers should understand the value instantly, without having to read twice.</p>

<h3>3. Personalize Whenever Possible</h3>

<p>Generic blasts are often dismissed. Instead, personalize your messages with customer names, purchase history, or preferences. Even something as simple as &ldquo;Hey Sarah, your favorite cleanser is back!&rdquo; can elevate click-through rates and drive loyalty. If your SMS platform supports segmentation, you can go deeper: target based on location, shopping habits, or loyalty tier to make the message even more resonant.</p>

<h3>4. Time Your Messages Strategically</h3>

<p>Timing is everything in SMS marketing for retail. Send a text too early or too late, and you risk annoying your customers&mdash;or missing the moment entirely. Aim for mid-morning or late afternoon on weekdays for promotional content. For flash sales, give enough notice but also a sense of urgency. And avoid weekends unless the campaign is tied to weekend-only deals. If you&rsquo;re using Dexatel&rsquo;s scheduling tools, you can automate timing based on time zones and behaviors.</p>

<h3>5. Include a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)</h3>

<p>Every message should tell the customer what to do next. Whether it&rsquo;s &ldquo;Shop Now,&rdquo; &ldquo;Use Code SAVE10,&rdquo; or &ldquo;Visit Us In-Store,&rdquo; your call to action (CTA) needs to be visible and actionable. Vague phrases like &ldquo;Check this out&rdquo; or &ldquo;You might like this&rdquo; don&rsquo;t convert well. A strong CTA amplifies engagement, improves click-through rates, and leads directly to conversions.</p>

<h3>6. Make Unsubscribing Easy</h3>

<p>No one likes losing subscribers, but it&rsquo;s better to part ways than to be marked as spam. Always include an unsubscribe option, usually with a short phrase like &ldquo;Reply STOP to opt out.&rdquo; Not only is this required by law in many areas, but it also shows that you respect the customer&rsquo;s choice. Making it easy to leave actually increases the chances they&rsquo;ll come back later or recommend your brand to someone else.</p>

<h2>Final Thoughts: Do SMS Templates for Retail Actually Work?</h2>

<p>Great campaigns don&rsquo;t need to start from scratch. SMS templates for retail take the guesswork out of writing, scheduling, and launching messages, so you can stay reliable, current, and focused.</p>

<p>Templates enable rapid execution: promote flash sales, send product drop alerts, re-engage dormant customers, or thank your most loyal ones without writing every message from zero. They save time, keep your tone on-brand, and create structure for your SMS strategy.</p>

<p>But even with strong templates, smart retailers ask:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Are we sending this at the best possible time?</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Is this message going to the right segment?</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Is our tone aligned with what our audience expects?</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Are we tracking whether this campaign actually worked?</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>The Dexatel platform is built to answer those questions. With real-time analytics, audience targeting, and automated campaign tools, you don&rsquo;t just send messages. You build campaigns that are data-driven and straightforward to optimize. Templates help you move quickly. Dexatel helps you move intelligently.<br />
<a href="https://dashboard.dexatel.com/sign-up/">Sign up for Dexatel</a> to access ready-to-use retail SMS templates, real-time insights, and powerful automation, all in one platform.</p>


Discover high-performing retail SMS marketing templates. Boost customer engagement with our top retail text message solutions and ready-made templates.

21 Retail SMS Templates That Drive Sales and Engagement

21 SMS Templates for Retail that Actually Work

<p>Radio stations have stood the test of time ever since they appeared over a century ago.</p>

<p>And who would have guessed that they could go hand in hand with SMS marketing?</p>

<p>Texting is a great way to boost a radio station&#39;s brand.</p>

<p>Each message that they send out is an opportunity to promote the station&#39;s brand and build up its reputation.</p>

<p>It goes without saying that if you&#39;re not making use of it, you&#39;re missing out on a massive opportunity to connect with your listeners.</p>

<p>Here&#39;s everything you need to know about using radio station SMS.</p>

<h2>What is Radio Text Messaging?</h2>

<p>This is a service that allows listeners to request songs, enter contests, receive important updates, or simply interact with the station.</p>

<p>Typically, radio station hosts will mention a keyword and an&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-short-code/" title="SMS Short Codes Explained: Types and Uses">SMS short code</a>&mdash;a 5 to 6-digit number&mdash;or phone number on-air that listeners can text to.</p>

<p>For example, a listener might text the word &ldquo;SONG&rdquo; to the short code 12345 to make a song request.</p>

<p>Also known as short code messaging, this type of&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/guide/sms-marketing/" title="SMS Marketing Guide">SMS marketing</a> became popular in the early 2000s as a way for listeners to interact with their favorite radio shows.</p>

<p>They would text in questions or comments, and the hosts would read them on air.</p>

<p>It became a great way to connect with the radio hosts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This made SMS texting an incredibly powerful tool for radio stations, allowing them to communicate with listeners, boost their ratings, and increase their advertising revenues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="how-text-message-services-for-radio-stations-work" src="/images/blog/108/body/how-text-message-services-for-radio-stations-work.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>How Text Message Services for Radio Stations Work</h2>

<p>Radio stations that offer SMS services usually do so as a way to increase audience engagement.</p>

<p>This can be a useful tool for promoting giveaways, polls, or other interactive content.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To use the service, listeners would typically text a keyword to a short code or toll-free number.</p>

<p>The keyword would be something like &ldquo;CONTEST&rdquo; or &ldquo;VOTE.&rdquo;</p>

<p>The listener would then receive a response with further instructions.</p>

<p>For example, they might be asked to choose their favorite song from a list or to guess the answer to a question.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Listeners must first&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-opt-in/" title="The Complete Guide to SMS Opt-In">opt in to the service</a> to receive an SMS message.</p>

<p>This means providing their mobile phone number either through the radio station&rsquo;s website or simply by texting a keyword.</p>

<p>Once <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/text-message-subscription/" title="The Ultimate Guide to Text Message Subscriptions">they have subscribed</a>, they will be able to receive texts from the radio station at any time.</p>

<h2>How Do Radio Stations Make a Profit With SMS</h2>

<p>There are a few different ways that radio stations can make a profit with SMS texting.</p>

<p>One way is by charging a small fee for each text message that listeners send to the radio station.</p>

<p>Another way is by selling advertising space on the text messaging service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Others may also make a profit by charging a monthly subscription fee for their text messaging service, which includes receiving weather updates, exclusive deals, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="5-benefits-of-radio-station-text-messaging" src="/images/blog/108/body/5-benefits-of-radio-station-text-messaging.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>5 Benefits of Radio Text Messaging</h2>

<p>There are many ways SMS marketing can prove to be beneficial for radio stations.</p>

<p>After all, text messaging is a convenient tool for listeners as well, which explains the significantly&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-open-rates/" title="SMS Open Rates: What Makes Them So High?">high open rates</a>.</p>

<p>Besides being practical and cost-effective, here&rsquo;s how SMS can prove to be an ideal communication channel:</p>

<h3>1. Connect With Listeners</h3>

<p>Radio stations that use SMS marketing can stay in touch with their listeners as well as get their feedback in real time.</p>

<p>They can use SMS to send out surveys to listeners, news, and information about upcoming events.</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s also cheaper for listeners to text their favorite radio stations than to call them.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>2. Boost Ratings</h3>

<p>Needless to say, higher ratings are crucial for the success of a radio station.</p>

<p>SMS can help radio stations boost their ratings by allowing listeners to text in their votes for their favorite songs or other topics.</p>

<p>This can paint a picture of what songs and topics are popular with their listeners and what the host or DJ should play or talk about more often.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>3. Increase Advertising Revenues</h3>

<p>By sending out text message coupons to their listeners, radio stations can increase their advertising revenues.</p>

<p>Radio stations can also use text messaging to send promotional messages about upcoming events and giveaways in collaboration with local businesses.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>4. Generate New Content</h3>

<p>Make your program more dynamic and engaging by having regular breaks so that listeners can participate in a contest or choose the songs for the upcoming hour.</p>

<p>You can also gather anecdotes, opinions, and requests from the audience through incoming messages to help guide the subjects of upcoming shows by encouraging them to participate.</p>

<h3>5. Improve Bottom Line</h3>

<p>If you&#39;re a commercial radio station, use text messages to drive listeners to your advertisers&#39; websites or special offers.</p>

<p>This is a great way to generate revenue and help out your advertisers at the same time.</p>

<p>Many radio stations thrive on collaborations, and a great way to nurture them is through SMS marketing.</p>

<p><img alt="use-cases-of-sms-for-radio-stations" src="/images/blog/108/body/use-cases-of-sms-for-radio-stations.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Use Cases of SMS for Radio Stations</h2>

<p>An SMS message service for radio stations is a system that gives listeners a voice by allowing them to text a radio station and get a response on top of receiving news and updates.</p>

<p>You can use radio station SMS messaging for a range of purposes.</p>

<p>Here are a few of the most common use cases for radio station SMS:</p>

<h3>Weekly Contests</h3>

<p>Listeners can text a radio station to enter contests.</p>

<p>To enter a contest, people will need to text the keyword announced on the radio.</p>

<p>They will then have to provide their contact information, such as name and age, and the station will randomly select a winner from the entries.</p>

<p><strong>Example</strong>: <em>&ldquo;Hi Chris, reply to this text with the artist of the song you just heard for a chance to win a free headset from The Full Cart.&rdquo;</em></p>

<h3>Local Deals</h3>

<p>You can promote paid or potential advertisers&mdash;or even ones you personally love&mdash;to boost their awareness and potentially generate leads.</p>

<p>Depending on the collaboration you have with the local hotspot, you can send messaging offers, discounts, or even interesting new information about the business to your listeners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Example</strong>: <em>&ldquo;Hi Patty, spice up your commute with a cheeseburger from Flavoroso on Willow Avenue. Reply with a selfie for a chance to win a $30 voucher courtesy of Flavoroso.&rdquo;</em></p>

<h3>Feedback</h3>

<p>A radio station can use listener feedback to make changes to its program.</p>

<p>To do this, listeners will need to text the keyword that they hear on the radio before providing their feedback on the particular show.</p>

<p>The station will then make changes based on the results.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Example</strong>: <em>&ldquo;Hey Emma, what would you prefer to hear more of in our afternoon show? A. Pop culture news, B. Traffic reports, or C. Prank calls&rdquo;</em></p>

<h3>Directions</h3>

<p>You may also receive directions to a particular event or location with the help of radio text messaging.</p>

<p>To get directions, listeners will have to text the keyword to the short code or toll-free number.</p>

<p>They will then need to provide their location, and the station will simply send back a text message with the directions.</p>

<p><strong>Example</strong>: <em>&ldquo;Hi Jack, the event address is 795 E&nbsp; Willow Ave. Los Angeles CA 85705. For detailed directions, follow this link: http://bit.ly/p1we1&rdquo;</em></p>

<h3>Emergency Alerts</h3>

<p>Millions of people listen to the radio each month.</p>

<p>This makes it an effective outlet for urgent announcements such as amber alerts and severe weather warnings.</p>

<p>You can amplify your on-air emergency alerts by following them up with an SMS message announcement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Example</strong>: <em>&ldquo;Los Angeles listeners: a hurricane warning has been issued. Try to be off the roads&nbsp; by 3 pm and stay tuned for updates.&rdquo;</em></p>

<h3>Event Invitations</h3>

<p>Radio stations are typically present at several community events, whether they&rsquo;re attending or sponsoring them.</p>

<p>With SMS marketing, you can boost audience participation by sending them invitations, event reminders, and other promotional texts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can even make use of <a href="https://dexatel.com/features/short-sms-link-tracking/" title="SMS Link Tracking Solution">link tracking</a> to segment your texting list based on clicks. By doing so, you can send thank you messages to those who signed up for the event.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Example</strong>: <em>&ldquo;Hey Anne, the Head Start annual job fair is just around the corner. Sign up today by following this link: http://bit.ly/p1we1. We can&rsquo;t wait to see you there!&rdquo;</em></p>

<h3>Giveaway Announcements</h3>

<p>Besides minor contests, many radio stations host major giveaways.</p>

<p>SMS texting for radio can be an excellent way for listeners to participate and get a chance to win prizes.</p>

<p>It also allows you to sort the number of entries and organize submissions according to when you received them.</p>

<p>With an SMS platform, you can even have a winner selected at random by using a text-to-win feature.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Example</strong>: <em>&ldquo;Hi Sarah, want a free stay at Best Nest for one night with an all-you-can-eat buffet and a rejuvenating massage? Reply with the keyword GIVEAWAY for a chance to win.&rdquo;</em></p>

<h3>Song Requests</h3>

<p>You can use radio station SMS to increase audience engagement by allowing your listeners to text song requests.</p>

<p>All you have to do is share your number or short code on air and ask your audience to text the name of the song they would like to hear on your radio station.</p>

<p>Once a listener sends a request, you can reply with a confirmation text that you&rsquo;ll play the song within, let&rsquo;s say, the next hour.</p>

<p><strong>Example</strong>: <em>&ldquo;Hi Sally, your request is our command. Stay tuned to hear it play within an hour!&rdquo;</em></p>

<p><em><img alt="how-to-get-started-with-radio-station-text-messaging" src="/images/blog/108/body/how-to-get-started-with-radio-station-text-messaging.webp" style="width:100%" /></em></p>

<h2>How to Get Started With Radio Texting</h2>

<p>Setting up an SMS marketing campaign is a walk in the park&mdash;more so for a radio station that has already mastered the art of building an audience of loyal listeners.</p>

<p>With the help of a text messaging platform, you can get your audience to actively engage in a matter of minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>1. Choose a Number</h3>

<p>If your radio station already has a voice number that your loyal listeners are familiar with, you can actually use it.</p>

<p>All you&rsquo;d need to do is have it text-enabled, and you&rsquo;re good to go.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alternatively, you can get a custom 5 or 6-digit short code.</p>

<p>Another option is to obtain a local or toll-free phone number.</p>

<p>If you choose the latter, make sure to have it verified.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>2. Obtain Keywords</h3>

<p>Keywords come in handy when you want your listeners to opt in to your text message campaigns.</p>

<p>They also allow you to segment listeners based on what they&#39;re interested in.</p>

<p>You have a different keyword for each one of your radio station programs as well as for each event and giveaway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A keyword confirmation can be a great way to welcome new subscribers on the spot.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>3. Include Sign-Up Forms on Your Website</h3>

<p>Adding a subscription form to your website is another great way to have more listeners sign up for your messaging campaigns.</p>

<p>Keep in mind that your website is where people pop by to find out more information about upcoming events, giveaways, and more.</p>

<p>For example, you can set up a widget for visitors to provide their contact information so they can receive exclusive updates.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>4. Spread the News</h3>

<p>A key part of your SMS marketing campaign involves letting your listeners know that you have one.</p>

<p>Your DJs and radio hosts should be regularly mentioning your number and keywords on air.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll also want to include text-related calls to action on your signage, web pages, and advertisements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Simply let your number and keywords be seen wherever possible, and your contact list will start growing in no time&mdash;along with your ratings.</p>


Learn how to use radio station text messaging to engage with listeners, use best practices, tips, and more to develop successful campaigns.

A Full Guide Radio Station Text Messaging Solutions

Understanding the Basics of Radio Station Text Messaging

<p>The real estate market moves fast&mdash;so should your communication. In fact, the <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/reports/2017/2017-home-buyer-and-seller-generational-trends-03-07-2017.pdf">National Association of Realtors</a> has found that 62% of home buyers prefer texting over calls when communicating with agents, and properties listed with SMS follow-ups tend to receive <a href="https://woodpecker.co/blog/follow-up-statistics/">40% more responses</a> compared to email.</p>

<p>Real estate text message marketing offers a direct, personal way to stay connected with leads, clients, and tenants. Whether you&rsquo;re sending property updates, open house reminders, or maybe new listing alerts, a strong SMS approach guarantees nothing slips through the cracks. It allows real estate professionals to respond quickly to inquiries, increasing the chances of conversion.</p>

<p>For those handling rentals, SMS property management helps simplify maintenance requests, rent reminders, and lease updates so that tenants are always in the loop. Brokers and agencies benefit from SMS for real estate marketing by turning cold leads into active prospects through quick, targeted messaging that delivers results faster than other communication channels.</p>

<p>Every SMS text is built with conversion in mind, be it sending real estate messages to clients or driving engagement through SMS marketing for real estate campaigns. A well-planned strategy not only nurtures relationships but also boosts client retention and helps close deals faster. And sometimes, you need ready-made templates to get a head start and send the right text message at the right time.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Why SMS Marketing Is Important for Real Estate Companies</h2>

<h3>Client Engagement</h3>

<p>Effective text message marketing keeps your business in constant communication with potential and existing clients. A quick follow-up on a property showing or timely updates about new listings can help build relationships and encourage engagement. The direct nature of SMS means that clients can feel valued and informed, which boosts their confidence in your services.</p>

<h3>High Open Rates</h3>

<p>One of the primary reasons text marketing works so well is its impressive open rate. Studies show that <a href="https://www.airship.com/resources/explainer/text-message-marketing/">98% of text messages are read</a>, often within minutes of being received. This makes SMS an incredibly reliable tool for reaching clients and prospects with new listings, open house notifications, and updates. Messages don&rsquo;t get buried in inboxes like emails&mdash;they go straight to the recipient&rsquo;s mobile phones, making it more likely that your message will be seen.</p>

<h3>Cost-Effectiveness</h3>

<p><a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-marketing-pricing/">SMS is a low-cost option</a> for real estate businesses&mdash;compared to other forms of marketing. With text message marketing for real estate, small agencies and larger firms alike can reach a wide audience without breaking the bank. Plus, the relatively low cost of sending SMS means you can send messages frequently and at scale, keeping your clients engaged without overspending.</p>

<h3>High ROI</h3>

<p>Investing in SMS marketing for real estate <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-marketing-roi/">delivers a high RO</a>I. With short, straightforward, and action-oriented messages, you can drive more traffic to your website, encourage potential buyers to schedule showings, and even follow up with leads who may have lost interest. Sending text messages is not only affordable but also impactful, and can lead to higher engagement, quicker responses, and more successful transactions. If done right, SMS campaigns in real estate yield one of the highest ROI in the industry.</p>

<h2>25 SMS Templates for Real Estate Professionals</h2>

<h3>Case #1: Reminders</h3>

<p>Managing appointments, deadlines, and renewals can quickly become overwhelming. With example real estate text message scripts to get you started, you can easily send <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/text-appointment-reminder/">timely appointment reminders</a> to clients and prospects so that nothing is missed. Be it reminding a prospect about a property showing or alerting a tenant about a lease renewal, these kinds of messages offer a reliable way to stay on top of dates and keep clients engaged.</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Emily, this is James from Redwood Realtors. Reply with YES to confirm our appointment on Friday at 3 pm to discuss your real estate needs.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hey Lily, it&#39;s Daniel from Redwood Realtors. I just wanted to remind you about our meeting tomorrow at 3 pm to view some properties. See you then!</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Maya, just a friendly reminder that your payment of $400 is due on Friday. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you!</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Ethan, just a quick reminder that the deadline to sign the contract for the 795 E Willow Ave. apartment is Friday. Let me know if you need any help. Thanks!</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Gabriel, this is to remind you that the inspection for the 795 E Willow Ave. apartment is scheduled for Friday at 3 pm. Let me know if you have any questions.&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Samuel, just wanted to remind you that your lease is set to expire on Friday. Let me know if you would like to renew!</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>Case #2: Alerts</h3>

<p>For alerts, use real estate text message scripts that grab your client&#39;s attention fast. Urgency and efficiency are key to quick responses. Messages need to highlight time-sensitive information, like upcoming deadlines or property updates. Keep your messages short and direct to create a sense of urgency that prompts immediate action. This approach helps clients stay engaged and up to date.&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Urgent message for Mr. Brown: There&#39;s been a wildfire reported nearby. Please evacuate your home immediately and let us know that you&#39;re safe.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Great news, Tom! The price of the property you were interested in has been reduced by 5%. Let me know if you&#39;d like to schedule a showing.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hey Grace, just wanted to let you know that the seller has reduced the price of the property by $10,000. If you&rsquo;re interested, I can set up a tour ASAP!</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi David, Redwood Realtors is excited to inform you that we just received an offer on your property. Let&#39;s discuss the details and decide how to proceed.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Congrats, Layla! We just received an offer on the property you&rsquo;re looking to sell! Let&#39;s talk about what our next steps are.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>Case #3: Customer Support</h3>

<p>SMS property management can do wonders for customer support in real estate by optimizing communication and providing timely responses. In an industry where quick updates are essential, SMS allows property managers to maintain strong relationships with tenants and clients. Sending maintenance updates, payment reminders, and lease notifications with SMS guarantees that information is delivered promptly and directly. This eliminates the delays commonly seen with email or phone calls, which means property managers can offer better service and keep tenants and clients satisfied.</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Liam, thanks for your inquiry. Can you please provide me with more details so Redwood Realtors can better assist you?</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hey William, Redwood Realtors is happy to help. What questions do you have about the property you&#39;re interested in?</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hey Mel, Redwood Realtors understands your frustration, and we want to help resolve this issue. Let&#39;s work together to come up with a solution.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hey Sophia, Redwood Realtors is sorry to hear that you&#39;re having technical issues. We&rsquo;ll get back to you to troubleshoot the problem.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Ben, your feedback is important to Redwood Realtors. Please take a moment to complete our survey and let us know how we&#39;re doing: http://bit.ly/p1we1&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hey Jacob, Redwood Realtors is glad you&#39;re happy with our services. Would you be willing to provide a testimonial that I can share with potential clients?</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>Case #4: Follow-Up Texts for Real Estate</h3>

<p>After a property showing or open house, follow-up texts help maintain buyer interest. Real estate text message marketing allows you to quickly send personalized messages, addressing buyer interests and providing additional information. This way, you keep communication direct and relevant, boosting the chances of conversion. You can also automate these follow-up messages to allow for timely responses and avoid missing opportunities.&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Sienna, I hope you enjoyed the property at 795 E Willow Ave.. If you would like to schedule a second showing, please let me know.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Malcolm, it was great meeting you today. If you have any further questions about the property at 795 E Willow Ave, feel free to reach out.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Nora, thank you for coming to the open house at 795 E Willow Ave. Let me know if you have any questions or would like to schedule a private showing.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Aria, thank you for coming to the open house. If you would like additional info about the property or others in the area, don&rsquo;t hesitate to reach out.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Henry, thank you for submitting an offer on the property at 795 E Willow Ave. The seller is currently reviewing it. I&rsquo;ll keep you updated.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Oscar, the seller has received your offer on the property at 795 E Willow Ave. We will keep you updated on the status.&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Matthew, thank you for signing the contract for the property at 795 E Willow Ave. We will keep you updated on the next steps.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Hi Hazel, the contract for the property at 795 E Willow Ave. has been signed by all parties. We will keep you informed about the closing process.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2>How You Can Use Dexatel in Real Estate Marketing</h2>

<p>Dexatel allows agents and property managers to maintain a constant flow of communication without overwhelming their team, all while keeping clients happy. With a user-friendly interface, our communications platform makes it easy to send quick, personalized messages, such as property updates, appointment confirmations, and follow-ups after showings. This way, your messages are delivered on time while keeping clients engaged and in the loop.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>The Dexatel Advantage</h3>

<p>With Dexatel, real estate professionals can automate tasks, such as maintenance requests, rent reminders, and lease renewals. This reduces the risk of delays, while tenants and clients always receive timely updates. The platform also helps real estate companies speed up operations and boost client satisfaction by allowing them to respond to inquiries and requests on time.</p>

<p>And let&rsquo;s not forget about the tools you can use to personalize messages and track engagement. Plus, every message matches your branding. Reaching out to prospective buyers, tenants, or managing multiple properties is easier with Dexatel.</p>

<h3>Main Features</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Custom sender ID: Maintain consistent brand recognition.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Personalization: Craft tailored messages for specific clients.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Short link tracking: Analyze the performance of links shared in messages.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><a href="https://dexatel.com/features/sms-analytics/">Analytics</a> and reports: Track campaigns with detailed insights.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Role-based accounts: Assign different access levels to team members.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>And so much more. With these features, real estate professionals can optimize their SMS campaigns.</p>

<h3>Why Choose Us</h3>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Track message delivery and responses</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Create targeted SMS campaigns</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Send text messages in bulk</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Integrate the platform with your CRM</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2>Best Practices for SMS Communication in Real Estate</h2>

<p>SMS communication is a powerful tool for real estate, but only if done right. Whether you&#39;re nurturing leads, reminding clients about appointments, or sending property updates, getting the approach just right is key. Master these best practices, and your real estate SMS marketing strategy will be more successful and sure to keep your clients coming back!</p>

<h3>Keep it Short and Clear</h3>

<p>Clients want quick info, not long paragraphs. Focus on one clear message: schedule a showing, confirm a meeting, or share property details. Real estate text message marketing works best when it&rsquo;s to the point&mdash;no unnecessary details.</p>

<h3>Personalize the Message</h3>

<p>Make your messages stand out by adding a personal touch. This means using client names or mentioning specific houses or apartments they would actually be interested in. Personalization builds trust and boosts engagement. You can also boost customer satisfaction by referring to past conversations. This shows that you&rsquo;re invested in the client&rsquo;s needs.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Keep the Normal Frequency</h3>

<p>Too few messages and you risk being forgotten&mdash;too many, and you could annoy clients. Stick to a balanced frequency that keeps your clients in the loop without overwhelming them. SMS for real estate marketing should be steady but never intrusive.</p>

<h3>Pay Attention to Timing</h3>

<p>No one likes a text at 8:00 am or 9:00 pm. Aim for peak times, such as noon, when your clients are more likely to respond. Timely follow-ups after showings or inquiries can keep your property top of mind. Timing matters in text message marketing for real estate.</p>

<h3>Use CTAs</h3>

<p>Want clients to take action? Always include a CTA. Ask them to schedule a viewing, confirm a meeting, or contact you for more details. A strong CTA in your text messages helps move the conversation forward and drives real results.</p>

<h2>Bottom Line: Do it Right to Get the Best Results</h2>

<p>Every moment counts, and your communication can make or break a deal. The real estate text message marketing templates are your fast track to staying ahead in the industry. From property management to lead conversion, these templates give you a starting point so you can connect with clients in ways that are personal and influential.</p>

<p>Missed opportunities? Not here. From instant follow-ups to timely reminders, you can now be as quick as your clients need you to be.</p>

<p>With Decxatel&rsquo;s communication platform, you can take your real estate communication to the next level. We make it easy for you to keep clients and leads informed with personalized, timely messages. Meanwhile, features like detailed analytics allow you to track engagement and optimize your outreach. With Dexatel by your side, you can maintain strong relationships and boost conversions.&nbsp;<br />
<a href="https://dashboard.dexatel.com/sign-up/">Sign up now</a> to start using a better way to reach clients, keep them engaged, and drive results for your real estate business.</p>


Boost your real estate text message marketing with 25 proven SMS templates. Perfect for lead follow-ups, property updates, and client communication.

25 Real Estate SMS Templates That Drive Engagement

25 SMS Templates for Real Estate That Actually Work

<p>Hyperlinks appear in every form on the internet&mdash;SMS links being one of them.</p>

<p>And with a great deal of internet traffic coming from mobile devices and smartphones nowadays,&nbsp;business text messaging is shining as a go-to option for consumers.</p>

<p>It is a quick, easy, and practical communication tool that connects brands with their audience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What&rsquo;s even better is that, by setting up an HTML SMS link, you can make it even more convenient for customers to reach out to you from your website.</p>

<h2>What Is an SMS Link?</h2>

<p>An SMS link, also known as a click-to-text link, is a URL that opens the customer&#39;s SMS inbox with a pre-filled message and recipient.</p>

<p>It is an instant way for your website visitors to contact you through text messages.</p>

<p>You can set up this versatile feature just about anywhere on your website.</p>

<p>This includes embedded images, a call-to-action button, your &ldquo;Contact us&rdquo; page, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Creating a hyperlink that sends a text message doesn&rsquo;t take more than a few minutes.</p>

<p>In terms of HTML, the process is also very similar to setting up a click-to-email&nbsp;button.</p>

<p>Instead of using the &quot;mailto:&quot; tag, you use &quot;sms:&quot; to trigger a text message.</p>

<p><img alt="benefits-of-sms-links" src="/images/blog/142/body/benefits-of-sms-links.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Benefits of Having a SMS Link Service</h2>

<p>An HTML SMS link can prove beneficial for your business in several different ways.</p>

<p>And considering how simple it is to add one to your website, those benefits are all the more attainable.</p>

<p>Here&rsquo;s how setting up a click-to-text link can come in handy:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Generating more text messages since many people use smartphones to visit your website</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Providing your customers with a fast and convenient way to get in touch with you</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Boosting conversion rates and&nbsp;customer engagement thanks to a seamless user experience</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Being able to manage all your hyperlink text messages in one place</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2>How to Set Up a&nbsp;Texting Link</h2>

<p>Setting up an HTML SMS link isn&rsquo;t any different from creating any other type of link. It is essentially the same process but with minor tweaks.</p>

<p>These are the steps you need to follow to add an SMS link to your landing page:</p>

<h3>1. Write the Link Text&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Start by writing a text for your click-to-text link.</p>

<p>It doesn&rsquo;t need to be anything too fancy.</p>

<p>You can write something like &ldquo;Text us today&rdquo; or &ldquo;Click here to send a text&nbsp;message.&rdquo;</p>

<p>A&nbsp;link to SMS can fit in perfectly with just about any web page or landing page layout.</p>

<p>A few other options include images, your contact page, and the header or footer navigation.</p>

<p>Simply put, a click-to-text link can go wherever you can place an HTML.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>2. Type the Default Message</h3>

<p>When a website visitor selects your SMS link, their native messaging app will open with a pre-written text that they&rsquo;ll send you.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll want this message to be short, straightforward, and relevant to the offer or landing page the visitor is engaging with.</p>

<p>A hyperlink text message for a healthcare website, let&rsquo;s suppose, can be something like &ldquo;Hello, I&rsquo;d like to&nbsp;schedule an appointment with your clinic.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="choose-the-form-of-sms-link" src="/images/blog/142/body/choose-the-form-of-sms-link.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h3>3. Choose the Form of SMS Link</h3>

<p>Once you have your hyperlink text message ready, choose whether you want to set up a text link or a button link.</p>

<p>This would largely depend on the page layout as well as your own preferences.</p>

<p>Regardless of the format you decide on, the benefits are all the same.</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s worth mentioning that button links may warrant some knowledge of the CSS programming language.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>4. Build the Hyperlink</h3>

<p>Proceed to create your HTML SMS link the same way you would with any button or hyperlink.</p>

<p>Certain website builders will require you to simply type &ldquo;sms:[phone number]&rdquo; in the same place where you&rsquo;d otherwise add a link to a different web page.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If that option isn&rsquo;t available, you may need to add a custom HTML.</p>

<p>As you probably know, it&rsquo;s the &ldquo;&lt;a&gt;&rdquo; tag that defines HTML links.</p>

<p>The code also consists of an &ldquo;href&rdquo; tag which defines the link&rsquo;s destination.</p>

<p>This is how a basic HTML code should look like:&nbsp;</p>

<p>&lt;a href=&rdquo;sms:[phone number]&amp;body=[default message]&rdquo;&gt;[link text]&lt;/a&gt;</p>

<h3>5. Run a Test</h3>

<p>Try running a quick test to check if your link&nbsp;SMS texts the right message to the right number.</p>

<p>Use your mobile phone to go to your landing page.</p>

<p>Once you&rsquo;re there, select the click-to-text button and send the default SMS text.</p>

<p>Next, you&rsquo;ll want to make sure the text went through by checking your text notifications.</p>

<p>If everything goes as planned, you should be ready to receive SMS messages from the click-to-text link.</p>

<p><img alt="best-practices-for-creating-sms-links" src="/images/blog/142/body/best-practices-for-creating-sms-links.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Best Practices for Creating SMS Links</h2>

<p>There are a few tips you may need to consider when creating an SMS link for your website.</p>

<p>Following these best practices allows you to make the most of this useful tool.</p>

<p>Keep in mind that SMS links are incredibly beneficial, but only if you use them right.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Use a Dedicated Phone Number for Your Hyperlink Text Message</h3>

<p>If you are creating a click-to-text link for a new product&rsquo;s landing page, using a dedicated phone number to manage incoming messages is a good idea.</p>

<p>Consider using SMS chat so your customer service team receives all messages in one place.</p>

<h3>Offer Alternative Options for Contacting Your Business</h3>

<p>Not every device or operating system supports SMS links, which is why it&rsquo;s important to provide alternative ways for visitors to contact you.</p>

<p>You can include a click-to-call button that your visitors can tap to get in touch with your business from any mobile phone.</p>

<p>Adding a chatbot, for example, would cater to desktop users.</p>

<h3>Find Out What Devices Your Visitors Use</h3>

<p>Since SMS links only work on mobile phones, it pays to know what devices and operating systems your website visitors are using.</p>

<p>Tools like Google Analytics would come in handy here.</p>

<p>Use that information to optimize your click-to-text link for the device or operating system that the majority of your customers use.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Create Snippets</h3>

<p>Using snippets allows you to be quick, precise, and on-brand, which is key when you&#39;re replying to text messages from customers.</p>

<p>Snippets are business SMS message templates that you can use to reply to your customers as quickly as possible.</p>

<p>They are especially useful for composing common answers.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Make Use of Auto Replies for After-Hours</h3>

<p>Consider using&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/auto-reply-text/" title="The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up Auto-Reply to Text Messages">auto&nbsp;replies</a> for hyperlink text messages that you receive after business hours.</p>

<p>Something along the lines of &ldquo;we&rsquo;ll get back to you within 24 hours&rdquo; would let customers know their message has gotten through, and set expectations on when you&rsquo;ll get back to them.</p>


SMS links can boost lead generation for your business. Discover how to create them for your website and maximize their potential. Read now!

SMS Links: What They Are and How to Start

SMS Links: Definition, Benefits, and How to Get Started

Here are the best SMS marketing platforms to take your business to the next level; the ones on this list come highly recommended.

23 Best SMS Marketing Platforms to Use in 2023

23 Best SMS Marketing Platforms for Businesses in 2023

Boost your eCommerce SMS marketing with high-converting templates, smart notifications, and proven strategies to engage customers and increase conversions.

50 eCommerce SMS Templates That Drive Sales

50 SMS Templates for eCommerce to Engage Your Customers

<p>To attract and retain customers, businesses must do everything in their power to ensure the best customer experience.</p>

<p>Personalization is the most important factor for delivering the best customer experience.</p>

<p>Businesses easily reach their customers with personalized messages thanks to text message subscriptions.</p>

<h2>Understanding Text Message Subscription</h2>

<p>A business uses this service to create direct customer engagement, ensuring a personalized approach in the process.</p>

<p>A customer subscribes to an <a href="https://dexatel.com/channels/sms/" title="Business Text Messaging Service">SMS service</a> to easily communicate with the business and simplify their lives.</p>

<p>Advantages include:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Serving as a bridge</li>
	<li>Improving communication</li>
	<li>Personalizing messages</li>
	<li>Building a list of phone numbers</li>
	<li>Providing an individual approach</li>
</ul>

<p>Consumers <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-opt-in/" title="The Complete Guide to SMS Opt-In">opt-in</a>, thereby agreeing to receive SMS&nbsp;from a business.</p>

<p>This allows businesses to send individual and group messages to clients to make the process straightforward.</p>

<p>According to statistics, <a href="https://techjury.net/blog/sms-marketing-statistics/" title="35+ Must-Know SMS Marketing Statistics in 2024">75%</a> of clients prefer to receive marketing messages via SMS.</p>

<p>Businesses send newsletters, coupons, surveys, bookings, special offers, discounts, and more via SMS.</p>

<h2>Things to Keep in Mind About Text Message Subscriptions</h2>

<h3>1. Only Send Messages to Users Who Opted in</h3>

<p>Businesses can send and receive SMS only to recipients who have opted in for the listing.</p>

<p>By opting in, the recipient permits you to send a message to them.</p>

<h3>2. Send Messages During Work Hours</h3>

<p>Did you know that certain areas prevent businesses from texting subscribers during specific periods?</p>

<p>Refrain from sending messages in the early morning and late-night hours.</p>

<h3>3. Create an Easy Opt-In and Opt-Out Process</h3>

<p>Make sure to require minimum information for opt-in and make the process smooth.</p>

<p>The rule of thumb is not to have more than three to five fields in the form.</p>

<p>The same thing goes for <a href="https://dexatel.com/features/sms-opt-out/" title="SMS Opt-Out Solution">opt-out processes</a>.</p>

<p>Remember that businesses need to provide information on opt-out during the opt-in process.</p>

<h2>How to Create&nbsp;Subscriptions for SMS</h2>

<p>An SMS subscription service is helpful to your text marketing campaign.</p>

<p>Many platforms are available for businesses to choose from to get started.</p>

<h2>Selecting a Platform Provider</h2>

<h3>1. Ease of Use</h3>

<p>User-friendliness is a basic feature that every platform must provide.</p>

<p>However, some platforms are relatively easier to use than others.</p>

<h3>2. Two-Way Messaging</h3>

<p>Most customers opt in to communicate with the business.</p>

<p>Therefore, while selecting platforms, it&rsquo;s an absolute must that they provide two-way messaging.</p>

<h3>3. Integration</h3>

<p>Ensure that the platform has no issues integrating the product with other apps and services.</p>

<p>This will come in handy for automating processes in the future.</p>

<h3>4. Affordable pricing</h3>

<p>The best solution for small businesses is a pay-as-you-go option.</p>

<p>This means that you make the payment as you send the messages.</p>

<p>There is no prior requirement or obligation involved.</p>


<h3>5. Scalability</h3>

<p>Select a provider that will have no trouble taking care of your needs when your business grows.</p>

<h2>Budgeting for SMS Subscriptions</h2>

<p>If you ask us, it&rsquo;s best to allocate a budget for your&nbsp;services. Why?</p>

<p>If you want to provide an excellent customer experience, you can&rsquo;t do it if your customers can&rsquo;t connect with you.</p>

<p>Hence, you need two-way messaging right off the bat.</p>

<p>With services that provide free SMS, it&rsquo;s usually a one-way street.</p>

<p>In any case, before selecting a provider to work with, you need to research to see what works best for you.</p>

<p>Determine the best one that suits your budget, marketing strategy, company goals, and what you can get out of it.</p>

<h2>Free SMS Subscription Providers for Nonprofits</h2>

<h3>1. Twilio</h3>

<ul>
	<li>$.0075 per message sent</li>
	<li>$500 in-kind grants for nonprofits available</li>
	<li>Allows custom message flows but requires knowledge of the platform to customize</li>
</ul>

<h3>2. Expert Texting</h3>

<ul>
	<li>$0.0083 per message ($8.30 for 1,000 messages)</li>
	<li>Unlimited keywords</li>
	<li>Free to receive SMS</li>
</ul>

<h3>3. MoboMix</h3>

<ul>
	<li>$50 per month for 2,000 messages</li>
	<li>1 keyword</li>
	<li>Free to receive SMS</li>
</ul>

<h3>4. Textmarks</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Low-cost texting</li>
	<li>$199 per month for 3,500 messages</li>
	<li>10 keywords</li>
	<li>Use credits to send and receive messages</li>
</ul>

<h3>5. EZ Texting</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Free messaging tier up to 250 messages per month</li>
	<li>$49 per month for 1,000 messages</li>
	<li>1 keyword</li>
	<li>Free to receive SMS</li>
</ul>

<h3>6. SimpleTexting</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Starting at $45 per month for 1,000 messages</li>
	<li>Unlimited keywords</li>
	<li>Free to receive messages</li>
</ul>

<h3>7. BurstSMS</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Available pricing volume discounts</li>
	<li>$0.016 per sent message</li>
	<li>3 keywords for a short shared code</li>
	<li>Free to receive messages</li>
</ul>

<h2>Free Messaging Subscription Providers for Businesses</h2>

<h3>1. TextEm</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Account creation required</li>
	<li>No anonymity</li>
	<li>Send free messages</li>
	<li>Curate a list of frequently used contacts and get their replies back to your account inbox</li>
	<li>Doesn&#39;t support <a href="https://dexatel.com/solutions/bulk-sms/" title="Bulk SMS Service">bulk text messaging</a></li>
	<li>Send the same message to several numbers at the same time</li>
	<li>Can&rsquo;t send messages outside North America</li>
</ul>

<h3>2. SendSMSnow</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Account creation required</li>
	<li>Generate phonebooks</li>
	<li>Receive replies in your inbox</li>
	<li>Paid group messaging</li>
	<li>Works worldwide</li>
</ul>

<h3>3. OpenTextingOnline</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Account creation not required</li>
	<li>Send free messages</li>
	<li>Works with carriers in over 50 countries</li>
	<li>Supports pictures, videos, and audio content</li>
	<li>Supports 140 characters per message</li>
</ul>

<h3>4. txtDrop</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Account creation not required</li>
	<li>Send free messages</li>
	<li>Receive replies in your inbox</li>
	<li>Available in the US and Canada</li>
	<li>Offers a macOS widget</li>
</ul>

<h3>5. SendAnonymousSMS</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Account creation not required</li>
	<li>Send free SMS messages</li>
	<li>Supports 145 characters per message</li>
	<li>Available in over 80 countries</li>
</ul>

<h3>6. TextEmNow</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Supports up to 300 characters</li>
	<li>Send messages to any mobile number worldwide</li>
</ul>

<h3>7. Globfone</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Account creation not required</li>
	<li>Send free local, national, and international messages</li>
	<li>Doesn&rsquo;t support receiving replies</li>
	<li>Doesn&rsquo;t support pictures and videos</li>
</ul>

Text message subscriptions can help your business build customer lists and communicate with them directly. Read now to find out how.

Text Message Subscription: What It Is & How to Start Easily

What is Text Message Subscription and How to Start?

<p>Drip, drip, drip&mdash;it&rsquo;s the sound of your SMS drip campaign messages hitting your recipients&rsquo; inboxes. Messages your leads or customers are receiving from you that will at some point spur them to take action. The idea is that you give your audience a little bit at a time without drowning them in a torrent of information all at once. Instead, there&rsquo;s a constant flow of marketing material sent to customers over a period of time.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What is Drip Marketing?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Drip SMS marketing is a strategy that involves sending a series of pre-written,&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/automated-text-message/">automated text messages</a> to a target audience over a specific amount of time. This period can be days, weeks, or even months. Some sales funnels are designed for a slow and steady approach that nurtures leads and builds relationships with potential customers, while others want to convert as quickly as possible. No matter the timeline or stages, the point is to go from lead to sale.</p>

<p>Drip texting helps in this regard by providing your recipients with valuable content that moves them down the sales funnel. By timing the messages and adding relevant incentives, you can target your leads at the right place and time, increasing the likelihood of conversion or repeat purchase. The content is usually sent via email marketing, although it can also be sent via other channels like social media, SMS, or even physical mail.&nbsp;</p>


<p>Out of these,&nbsp;SMS marketing is one of the most effective ways of reaching your audience. Thanks to high&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-open-rates/" title="SMS Open Rates Statistics ">open rates</a>, the messages are received and viewed almost immediately and can lead to quick action being taken. Text messaging is a fast, easy, and cost-effective marketing channel. A successful <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-marketing-campaign/" title="Creating an SMS Campaign: An Advanced Guide">SMS marketing campaign</a> converts leads into customers by delivering personalized and relevant messages to your target audience in a small and digestible format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Text message drip campaigns can be personalized and segmented based on user demographics, behavior, and other criteria, allowing you to tailor your content to specific groups of users. This approach can help with increased engagement and conversions over time, as users become more familiar with your brand and products or services. For more&nbsp;advanced SMS campaigns, you can use drip marketing in conjunction with social media marketing, landing pages, and lead magnets. But let&rsquo;s get your feet wet before we swim.</p>

<p><img alt="what-is-a-drip-campaign" src="/images/blog/149/body/what-is-a-drip-campaign.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>What is a Drip Campaign?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Although drip marketing and drip campaigning are often used interchangeably, you can think of the latter as the specific set of messages you will be sending. As the name implies, this type of campaign is a series of thematically connected messages, or drips, sent as a campaign. This means that each message ideally follows a logical continuation. For example, after initial registration or contact, you can start nurturing your lead by introducing them to your products or services and eventually scheduling a sales call.</p>

<p>One of the key benefits of a drip SMS text campaign is that it allows you to automate your marketing efforts. This not only saves you time and resources, but reaches your customers at the right time. With a well-designed campaign, you can create a sequence of messages that are tailored to your audience&#39;s interests, behaviors, and preferences, and let the campaign do its thing.</p>

<h2>How to Build a Drip Campaign&nbsp;</h2>

<p>To launch a text message drip campaign, all you need is a marketing automation platform, or in the case of texting&mdash;an&nbsp;SMS platform. These offer wide functionality and feature sets like&nbsp;mass texting to streamline and tweak your campaigns for a wide audience. But before hitting send, you have some important steps to take. Following these will ensure that you maximize the effectiveness of your drip messaging.</p>

<h3>Define Your Goals</h3>

<p>The first step is to define your campaign goals. Ask yourself what you want to achieve.</p>

<p>Some people just want to increase brand awareness, and drip marketing can help with that. Others want to reach out to prospective customers and generate leads. And others want to turn those leads into sales. The goals you set will guide the type of content you create and the audience you target.</p>

<h3>Identify Your Target Audience</h3>

<p>With your goals set, you need to identify your target audience. Who are the people you want to reach and what are their motivations? Are they your existing customers, prospects who have shown interest, or cold leads? What interests, pain points, and buying behaviors do they have?&nbsp;</p>

<p>The more you know the better, but don&rsquo;t despair if all you have is a name and a number. You can use data from your CRM or text message marketing platform to segment your audience based on demographics, behavior, and other criteria.</p>

<h3>Choose Your Triggers</h3>

<p>Drip campaigns can be triggered based on certain actions like registration, subscription, orders, or just a newsletter sign-up. For any given trigger, you can choose what messages and how many to send, including the rate at which to send them.</p>

<p>These messages can be personalized with information like the contact&rsquo;s name and a reference to the action that triggered it. You might send a message to someone who signs up for your website, for instance. Or you could send it to people who have abandoned shopping carts.</p>

<h3>Plan Your Content</h3>

<p>After you&#39;ve identified your goals and the target audience, you can plan your content accordingly. Create a series of messages that will be sent to your audience over a specific time period. The content should be valuable, relevant, and engaging to your recipients, and ultimately move them down the sales funnel.</p>

<h3>Set Up Your Campaign</h3>

<p>Once you have your content planned out, it&#39;s time to set up your campaign. This involves creating a schedule for when your emails or messages will be sent, as well as setting up any automation or triggers that will be used to send them.</p>

<h3>Test and Refine</h3>

<p>After your campaign is up and running, make sure to test and refine it over time. This includes monitoring your open and click-through rates, as well as making adjustments to your content and targeting based on user behavior.</p>

<p><img alt="how-drip-campaigns-are-used" src="/images/blog/149/body/how-drip-campaigns-are-used.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>How Drip Campaigns Are Used&nbsp;</h2>

<p>You should use SMS drip marketing campaigns to connect with your audience following important actions like sign-ups or to mark dates like birthdays or holidays. Drip messages can target each potential customer at various points in your sales pipeline. These can be welcome drips, onboarding sequences after purchase, lead nurturing, re-engagement campaigns, and product recommendations.</p>

<h3>1. Placing an Order</h3>

<p>A first order is a big occasion. In addition to the regular thank you email, you can follow up with information about the product and its best uses and check in to see if everything went well with the order. This keeps your business top of mind for the customer and shows care.</p>

<h3>2. Attending an Event or Virtual Course</h3>

<p>A drip SMS campaign can be an effective way to keep new audiences informed about your businesses or to share new events that may be of interest to them. Follow up with someone from an event you hosted or attended and build a relationship.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>3. Registering for a Free Info Pack or Trial</h3>

<p>If someone has registered on your website or for a freebie, you can start sending drip text messages to them as you try to convert them into a paying customer. Present your other offerings that are related to the item or service they showed interest in, but don&rsquo;t be too pushy.</p>

<h3>4. Not Placing an Order for a While</h3>

<p>If your customers have been dormant for a long time, you can set up an automated drip texting campaign after a certain period has passed since their last purchase. You can include new product recommendations or inquire about their experience to see if something is wrong.</p>

<h3>5. Important Occasions</h3>

<p>Automated campaigns can send out messages on important dates such as birthdays, anniversaries, or around the holidays. For example, you can create a series of messages leading up to Christmas or the New Year.</p>

<h3>6. Subscription Renewal or Reorders</h3>

<p>If your customer&rsquo;s subscription is nearing its end, you can start sending out a message a month or two beforehand to remind them and even offer some incentives for renewal. If you offer a product that&rsquo;s regularly ordered (such as personal hygiene products or office supplies), you can remind your customers that it&rsquo;s time to stock up.</p>

<h2>Why Use Drip Campaigns?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Drip SMS campaigns can help turn your visitors into buyers, increase repeat purchases or upsells, and re-engage a dormant audience. By communicating your brand and its value, you build a relationship with your audience and show that you&rsquo;re a great resource&mdash;before, during, and after a purchase.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main draw of drip marketing is that the campaigns are prewritten, automated, and personalized. For each campaign, you write the messages once, and then automate the personalization and sending. Once they&rsquo;re set up, your drip marketing campaigns launch automatically in response to user action or other strategic points in the mapped-out customer journey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="do-drip-campaigns-work" src="/images/blog/149/body/do-drip-campaigns-work.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Do Drip Campaigns Work?</h2>

<p>They can be effective for engagement and conversion with both existing and potential customers. The efficiency of a campaign depends on the quality and relevance of the content and the correct segmentation of your audience. If you create relevant and engaging content for your target audience and segment your list properly, you can increase the chances of converting leads and driving return business.</p>

<h2>What Should a Drip Campaign Include?</h2>

<p>The content of your drip campaign depends on the goals and objectives of the campaign and the interests and behaviors of your target audience. SMS drip campaign examples include:</p>

<h3>Welcome Message</h3>

<p>The first message of a drip campaign is usually a welcome or a thank you that introduces your brand and sets expectations for future communication.</p>

<h3>Educational Content</h3>

<p>Educational content, such as blog posts or eBooks, provides value to your subscribers, especially if it addresses a user&rsquo;s pain points.</p>

<h3>Promotional Offers</h3>

<p>Customers are so used to promo offers that they may not even take action without one. Offer discounts, free trials, or other promotions to incentivize purchases.</p>

<h3>Social Proof</h3>

<p>Social proof in the form of customer testimonials or success stories can build trust and credibility with your audience. It shows them the effectiveness of your product or service in real cases.</p>

<h3>Calls-to-Action</h3>

<p>CTAs encourage your recipients to take a specific action, such as visiting your website, signing up for a free trial, or making a purchase.</p>

<h3>Follow-Ups</h3>

<p>Send follow-up messages to remind subscribers about upcoming events, promotions, or limited-time offers that are about to expire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To be successful, a text drip campaign should be well-planned, tailored to your audience, and provide value at every stage of the customer journey. Regularly analyze the data and feedback from your campaign to optimize and improve the effectiveness of your messages. Use our handy guide to&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/insights/best-practices/" title="List of SMS Marketing Best Practices">SMS marketing best practices</a> to optimize your content and ensure that every message counts</p>

Learn how to effectively launch a drip campaign with our comprehensive guide. Start driving conversions and building customer relationships today.

What is an SMS Drip Campaign and How to Launch One

SMS Drip Campaign: What Is It and How Do You Launch It

 Learn how to improve customer service in healthcare with actionable strategies, communication tools, and support services that enhance the experience.

Customer Service in Healthcare: A Better Approach

How to Improve Customer Service in Healthcare

<p>Many healthcare providers tend to communicate with their colleagues and patients via text messaging. It&rsquo;s fast, simple, and convenient. But with the confidentiality of patient data in the picture, those messages need to follow the requirements of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). That&rsquo;s where secure text messaging for healthcare comes in, protecting sensitive information while still allowing quick, effective communication.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What Is HIPAA-Compliant Texting?</h2>

<p>HIPAA-compliant text messaging is essentially how healthcare providers, insurance companies, and other institutions that carry protected health information (PHI) share sensitive data in accordance with HIPAA rules and regulations. To make sure that your organization follows HIPAA messaging guidelines, there are a variety of apps and solutions you can choose from to maintain industry standards and protect the integrity of PHI.</p>

<p>HIPAA-compliant patient texting&mdash;such as <a href="https://dexatel.com/solutions/reminders/">SMS reminders</a> for appointments or even mass texts for public health warnings&mdash;is normally encrypted on a secure server that carries the data locally. This keeps mobile phone networks from holding a copy.</p>

<h2>What Are the HIPAA Requirements for SMS Messaging?</h2>

<p>Healthcare organizations often deal with the risk of critical information being compromised or misused by unauthorized individuals. Having said that, practitioners need to apply security controls and practice secure healthcare messaging when it comes to digital PHI. This includes educating employees about HIPAA guidelines as well as the dangers of data breaches. Some of those main regulations include:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Settings procedures regarding who can access patient health information and how they can use that information</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Running risk assessments on a periodic basis to detect and handle threats that can compromise the integrity of sensitive data</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Having encryption and data protection in mobile devices before accessing PHI</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Not storing PHI in mobile devices that belong to employees or subcontractors</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Deleting all PHI remotely if a mobile device is lost, stolen, given away, or disposed of, all PHI stored on it should be deleted remotely</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Organizations can share PHI with a patient as long as the patient is aware of the risks that come with unauthorized disclosure</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Having a function that logs off after a certain period of idle time (for software that contains PHI, including a secure SMS platform)</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Only giving PHI access to those with a unique and trackable user ID</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2>The Importance of HIPAA-Compliant Messaging in Healthcare</h2>

<p>There&rsquo;s no denying the benefits of SMS messaging. However, it&rsquo;s also important to be aware of the HIPAA violation risks that may be involved. Texting normally leaves a digital footprint for the messages that go around. This includes everything from day and time to context.</p>

<p>In the case of messages containing PHI, being HIPAA-compliant prevents data breaches and even identity theft. This only goes to show how critical it is to take HIPAA SMS measures.</p>

<h2>Benefits of Secure Texting for Healthcare</h2>

<p>Besides being mandatory, HIPAA-compliant healthcare texting allows for a modern patient experience through secure, convenient, and real-time communication. Here are some benefits of HIPAA compliance when it comes to SMS messaging.</p>

<h3>Secure Information</h3>

<p>By using HIPAA-compliant solutions to connect with your patients and associates, any piece of information you share will be transmitted and stored safely.</p>

<h3>No Violation Fees</h3>

<p>Not following HIPAA regulations can result in hefty penalties. With secure patient text messaging, you won&rsquo;t have to worry about any violation fees.</p>

<h3>Less Need for Phone Calls</h3>

<p><a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/hospital-text-message/">Secure texting in healthcare</a> can help reduce a great deal of time on outgoing calls. This allows providers to allocate more time for incoming calls, directing patients to the care they need, and carrying out insurance verification. An <a href="https://dexatel.com/solutions/alerts/">SMS alert</a>, for instance, is a much more convenient way to let a patient know that their test results are out.</p>

<h3>Easier to Schedule Appointments</h3>

<p>As people spend a considerable portion of their time on their phones, self-scheduling is becoming a more common option for making appointments. It&rsquo;s a win-win situation, considering how effortless it can be for both parties involved. With <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-marketing-platforms/">SMS platforms</a>, healthcare providers can even send automated HIPAA-compliant appointment reminders.</p>

<h3>Integration With Internal Systems</h3>

<p>With a smooth and secure flow of information going in and out of your practice management system, all patient data will be accessible on one platform.</p>

<h3>Increased Patient Engagement</h3>

<p>Thanks to its higher click-through rate, SMS messaging is proven to reign supreme over other modes of communication. This translates into higher patient engagement when it comes to two-way SMS messaging, especially when the patients know that their information is secure.</p>

<h2>Best Practices for Using HIPAA-Compliant Secure Messaging</h2>

<p>Legal guidelines can be intimidating, and you&rsquo;ll need to be extra careful with patient information. However, sticking to a set of best practices often goes a long way towards being HIPAA-compliant.</p>

<h3>Defining an Authorization Hierarchy</h3>

<p>Establishing a clear authorization hierarchy helps determine which personnel can access specific types of patient information&mdash;and for how long. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access by aligning data access with job roles and responsibilities. Regular audits can then be used to access patterns match this hierarchy and to flag any anomalies.</p>

<h3>Getting Consent from Patients</h3>

<p>Before initiating SMS patient communication, it&rsquo;s always important to get their consent in formal writing. This document should let them know the kind of data they will be receiving and that it&#39;s their duty to prevent the information from reaching unauthorized individuals.</p>

<h3>Making Sure the Devices Are Secure</h3>

<p>Keeping professional messages separate from personal ones is crucial if you&rsquo;re texting in healthcare. This means securing work-related messages that carry PHI with strong password authentication. The only way to access the messages should be via a HIPAA-compliant SMS messaging service.</p>

<h3>Keeping PHI out of Screen Notifications</h3>

<p>HIPAA-compliant text messaging apps will make sure to hide the text preview whenever an SMS that contains PHI is received&mdash;only the sender of the SMS will be visible. To view the contents of the message, the user would have to unlock their device via a PIN, password, or face recognition.</p>

<h3>Encrypting Messages in Transit and Storage</h3>

<p>Besides encrypting your SMS messages that are in transit, secure SMS platforms will also encode any proprietary information you have on your device, including stored messages. This prevents data leakage should your phone ever go missing.</p>

<h3>Enabling Two-Factor Authentication</h3>

<p>A two-factor <a href="https://dexatel.com/solutions/authentication/">authentication service</a> essentially allows you to verify a user&rsquo;s identity and make sure they have the clearance to access sensitive data. Since passwords alone can be prone to security breaches, 2FA serves as an additional layer of protection. You can set a 2FA for new patients, confirming their phone numbers and email addresses.</p>

<h3>Integrating Audits</h3>

<p>Your healthcare practice will need to go through HIPAA audits in order to assess how PHI is handled across all systems and processes. A HIPAA-compliant SMS solution will automatically audit and log any administrator activity that has to do with users, protocols, passwordless authentication, and viewing message receipts.</p>


Find out how secure text messaging for healthcare lets you stay HIPAA-compliant while communicating with patients and staff quickly, easily, and safely.

Secure Text Messaging for Healthcare With HIPAA Compliance

HIPAA Compliance and Secure Text Messaging for Healthcare

<p>It&rsquo;s hard to tell when you might be facing an emergency.</p>

<p>Natural disasters, safety hazards, severe weather conditions, and other unfortunate scenarios are bound to happen at any given time.</p>

<p>That being said, it&rsquo;s always a good idea to be prepared and know how to react.</p>

<p>Emergency SMS alert system can be a lifesaver in these situations.</p>

<p>And the&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-open-rates/" title="SMS Open Rates: What Makes Them So High?">high open rates</a> of text messaging make it an effective way to spread information about an urgent case.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Understanding Emergency Texting Systems</h2>

<p>A text message emergency alert system is a communication platform that lets you deliver vital information or instructions to a certain group of recipients during crises.</p>

<p>Organizations, government agencies, and other institutions send these alerts to spread awareness about an urgent situation and let recipients who are at risk know what to do.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These systems are critical tools for public safety and disaster response.</p>

<p>You can use them to convey various kinds of information, like health alerts, security threats, weather warnings, and evacuation instructions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By using SMS as a communication channel, these critical messages can reach a wide audience as quickly and reliably as possible.</p>

<p>Text alert systems often include features like mass messaging, audience segmentation, and delivery reports, making them more effective in emergencies.</p>

<h2>Who Uses Emergency Text Alert Systems?</h2>

<h3>Human Resources</h3>

<p>Human resource teams use an emergency text service to get in touch with their employees.</p>

<p>They send critical updates that require instant attention to the entire workforce.</p>

<p>This is especially useful for companies that have a large workspace or building, and for teams that work in separate offices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Example: &ldquo;Attention! The fire alarm has been activated. Please evacuate the building immediately.&rdquo;</p>

<h3>Weather Services</h3>

<p>Weather services and meteorological agencies utilize&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/solutions/alerts/" title="SMS Alert Service">SMS alert service</a> to send emergency messages.</p>

<p>These can include severe weather forecasts, warnings, and other weather-related updates for the public.</p>

<p>By receiving these emergency alerts, residents can take safety precautions or other appropriate measures.</p>

<p>Example: &ldquo;Hurricane watch for Los Angeles, California, until tomorrow. Be prepared to move to a safer area and check local media for more updates.&rdquo;</p>

<h3>Facility Managers</h3>

<p>Facility managers often send SMS text alerts to notify a building, business center, or whole campus about an emergency.</p>

<p>They can advise off-site employees or students to stay away and warn those who are on-site about the possible risks.</p>

<p>In turn, recipients can follow instructions or standard emergency protocols.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Example: &ldquo;There is a gas leak in Block A. Please evacuate immediately and gather in the East parking lot. We will send more updates soon.&rdquo;</p>

<h3>Local Municipalities</h3>

<p>Government agencies and local municipalities make use of emergency texting services to let residents know about local cases like blocked roads, power outages, and epidemics.</p>

<p>You can also expect these kinds of messages from health departments, police departments, fire departments, and other local bodies.</p>

<p>Examples: &ldquo;As a result of the heavy flooding, city buses will not be available today. Please stay indoors and avoid using alternative transportation unless necessary.&rdquo;</p>

<h3>School Administrators</h3>

<p>The safety of students and staff is a top priority for schools and other educational institutions.</p>

<p>An emergency text notification system can be useful for informing students, teachers, and parents about lockdowns, snowstorms, and evacuations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Examples: &ldquo;Due to the snowstorm, Edgewood School will be closed for the rest of the week. Classes will resume on Monday.&rdquo;</p>

<h3>Non-Profit Organizations</h3>

<p>Non-profit organizations that take part in disaster response, community outreach, and humanitarian aid use text message alert systems to reach out to donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries.</p>

<p>These messages can be anything from deployment locations to urgent relief efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Examples: &ldquo;Blood donors urgently needed at Cordial Care Hospital. Address: 795 E&nbsp; Willow Ave. Los Angeles CA 85705.&rdquo;</p>

<h2>How to Set Up an Emergency Texting Alert System</h2>

<h3>1. Choose a Reliable Texting Platform</h3>

<p>Go for a reputable messaging platform provider that specializes in SMS emergency alerts and other features that suit your needs.</p>

<p>The platform should support&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/solutions/mass-text/" title="Mass Text Messaging Solution">mass texting</a>, guarantee high deliverability, and offer tools that let you manage your contact lists and track message status.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll also want to make sure the service is compliant with <a href="https://dexatel.com/guide/sms-compliance/" title="SMS Compliance Guide">data protection and privacy laws</a>.</p>


<h3>2. Build and Sort Your Contact List</h3>

<p>Create and segment your contact lists based on factors such as demographics, geographic location, or specific needs.</p>

<p>Regularly updating contact information is essential for maintaining list accuracy and making sure your alerts reach the intended recipients.</p>

<p>You can either import contacts manually or integrate the system with existing databases to guarantee that the lists are always up-to-date.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>3. Compose Predefined Message Templates</h3>

<p>Create a series of <a href="https://dexatel.com/insights/templates/" title="Text Message Templates">predefined message templates</a> that you can use for a variety of emergencies.</p>

<p>You can customize the templates with key details that are specific to each scenario, including location, type of emergency, recommended steps, and contact information for assistance.</p>

<p>Preparing messages in advance helps speed up the alert process in critical cases.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>4. Integrate With Other Systems</h3>

<p>Efficiency is key for emergency alert systems.</p>

<p>To benefit from an efficient solution, integrate your alert service <a href="https://dexatel.com/channels/sms/api/" title="Text Message API">via API</a> with internal tools, databases, and emergency management software to ensure that your contact lists are accurate and up-to-date.</p>

<p>This helps prevent inconsistencies and guarantees that each intended recipient actually receives the text alert.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>5.&nbsp; Define Clear Protocols for Activation</h3>

<p>Establish clear protocols for when and how the emergency text system should be set in motion.</p>

<p>Define the criteria for delivering alerts, determine who has the authority to send them, and lay out the process for validating an emergency.</p>

<p>By doing so, you&rsquo;ll be avoiding false alarms and ensuring that alerts are only sent when necessary.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>6. Conduct a Test</h3>

<p>Make sure to test the notification system before you use it in an actual crisis.</p>

<p>Send out test alerts to a small group of people to verify that the system is working properly and that the messages are being received instantly.</p>

<p>Consider testing features like link integration, personalization, and interactive options for recipients to reply or confirm their status.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>7. Train Your Staff</h3>

<p>Train those who will be responsible for handling the text alert platform.</p>

<p>Demonstrate how to use the system, access templates, manage contact lists, and deliver alerts.</p>

<p>Besides the initial training session, carrying out drills helps the team become proficient in using the platform effectively when disaster strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>8. Introduce the System to Your Audience</h3>

<p>Let your audience know what your emergency text alert system is for and how it can benefit them.</p>

<p>Spread the word using various communication channels like email, social media, and your website.</p>

<p>Clarify how <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/text-message-subscription/" title="The Ultimate Guide to Text Message Subscriptions">recipients can subscribe</a> to receive emergency messages and specify what type of information they can expect to receive.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Best Practices of Using an Emergency Texting System</h2>

<h3>Keep It Clear and Concise</h3>

<p>Messages you send via the emergency text service need to be short and easy for the recipient to grasp quickly.</p>

<p>This is especially crucial for notifications that call for immediate action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Make sure to include key details such as the type of emergency (fire, tornado, gas leak), the location, what the recipient should do (evacuate, seek shelter, stay indoors), as well as helpful resources or contact information.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Ensure Prompt Delivery</h3>

<p>Timing is vital when it comes to emergencies&mdash;you should be able to send alerts instantly and without lag.</p>

<p>Modern SMS alert systems are designed to process a significant number of messages, reducing delivery delays.</p>

<p>This level of responsiveness guarantees that people receive urgent notifications swiftly, allowing them to react on the spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For example, it wouldn&rsquo;t make sense to receive an emergency alert text message about a tornado that&rsquo;s already close enough to send you flying.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Allow Two-Way Communication</h3>

<p>Recipients should be able to reply to alerts or ask any questions they may have about the emergency.</p>

<p>Either include a way for them to respond directly to the message or provide a channel that&rsquo;s designated for inquiries, such as a separate hotline.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://dexatel.com/features/two-way-sms/" title="Two-Way Texting">Two-way communication</a> allows contacts to ask for further clarifications or report their status, boosting responsiveness and situational awareness.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Regularly Update Contact Information</h3>

<p>Make sure your contact list is always up-to-date by performing regular <a href="https://dexatel.com/tools/carrier-lookup/" title="Free Carrier Lookup">carrier lookups</a> and encouraging contacts to update their information whenever they change locations or phone numbers.</p>

<p>Obsolete details can result in notifications not reaching their intended destination.</p>

<p>However, a reliable contact management system ensures that your emergency SMS alerts reach the recipients, even if they&rsquo;ve changed their number or address.</p>

<h3>Regularly Test the System</h3>

<p>You&rsquo;ll want to test your emergency text message alerts regularly to ensure that they&#39;re functioning properly.</p>

<p>This involves carrying out simulated drills every now and then.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Being prepared and having an emergency text alert system you can rely on goes a long way in preventing glitches or other issues during actual crises.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Have a Multichannel Strategy</h3>

<p>While there&rsquo;s no denying that SMS is effective as it is, you can reach a wider audience if you combine it with other communication channels.</p>

<p>These can include email, social media, and voice calls.</p>

<p>Different people prefer different methods of communication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That being said, a multichannel approach guarantees that your emergency alerts reach everyone, regardless of which method they prefer.&nbsp;</p>

Emergency SMS Alert Systems can potentially save lives—discover how they work and get familiar with the ins and outs of using one for urgent situations.

Emergency SMS Alert Systems: How to Set Up and Send

Emergency SMS Alert Systems: Step-by-Step Setup and Sending

<p>With the types of messages available today, staying connected is as simple as ever. Mobile messaging is fast, accessible, and offers an enhanced user experience. This makes it a great tool for individuals and businesses alike&mdash;whether it&rsquo;s something as basic as an SMS text or a well-crafted MMS campaign. The difference between each form of messaging essentially depends on how you use them and what you use them for.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What Are the 6 Common Types of Text Messages?</h2>

<p>Mobile messaging comes in many forms. Each of these different types of messages is useful in its own unique way. From simple SMS texts to in-app messages, let&rsquo;s take a look at each type of mobile messaging channel.</p>

<h2>Short Message Service</h2>

<p>Among the most <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-meaning/" title="What is SMS?">basic forms of mobile messaging is SMS</a>, or short message service. It&rsquo;s a technology that dates back all the way to the early 80s and one that&rsquo;s still as popular as ever. To send an SMS text, all you need is a cellular network, a signal, and a functioning mobile phone. This type of message has a&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-character-limit/" title="What is the SMS Character Limit?">limit of 160 characters</a> and is completely text-based.&nbsp;</p>


<p>SMS messaging serves as a handy tool for <a href="https://dexatel.com/features/two-way-sms/" title="Two-way SMS Solution">two-way communication</a> with friends, family, customers, businesses, and more. Even without an unlimited messaging plan, sending a text message doesn&rsquo;t cost more than a few pennies. The efficiency and&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-open-rates/" title="Why Are SMS Open Rates So High?">high open rate of SMS</a> messaging even make it a great&nbsp;marketing tool for businesses to connect with their customers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="ultimedia-message-service" src="/images/blog/144/body/multimedia-message-service.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Multimedia Message Service</h2>

<p>Much like SMS, MMS makes use of a cellular signal to transmit messages. But the main difference is that multimedia messaging service texts accommodate media files such as images, videos, and links.</p>

<p>Another distinction is that the 160-character limit doesn&rsquo;t apply to MMS texts. Instead, they have a limit of 1600 characters and 5 MB. However, MMS uses more data than other types of text messages&mdash;sending MMS messages also costs a bit more than SMS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>MMS messaging is a common way for consumers to interact with each other and with businesses. Companies are also known to use&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/mms-marketing/" title="What is MMS Marketing: Benefits, Tips, and Strategies">MMS for marketing strategies</a> as it allows them to introduce their products visually. This, in turn, helps them engage their audiences more effectively.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Instant Messaging</h2>

<p>As opposed to&nbsp;SMS and MMS&mdash;both of which use cellular signals&mdash;instant messaging takes place over the internet. Examples of instant <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/best-android-messaging-app/" title="25 Best Messaging Apps for Android">messaging apps for Android</a> and iOS&nbsp;include Whatsapp, Telegram, Viber, and Facebook Messenger. And unlike the two, these&nbsp;messages don&rsquo;t have a character limit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s needless to say that both users need to have the same mobile app. But it is possible to send instant messages from tablets, laptops, and desktop computers, and not just smartphones. Instant messaging enables users to send and receive photos, videos, GIFs, links, and files.</p>

<p>Businesses can use instant messaging to chat directly with customers across the globe. Apps like Whatsapp also support voice and video calls. This allows users to communicate globally without getting slapped with a huge cellular bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="push-notifications" src="/images/blog/144/body/push-notifications.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>Push Notifications</h2>

<p><a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/mobile-push-notifications/" title="Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Push Notifications">Push notifications are short pop-up messages</a> that appear on the lock screen or while you&rsquo;re using your smartphone. In most cases, you&rsquo;ll need to enable these&nbsp;messages for an application to send them. A push notification doesn&rsquo;t appear in the app itself; it is a tool that businesses use in mobile marketing to prompt users into entering and engaging with the app.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main types of push notifications are banner notifications and badge notifications. Banner notifications are the ones that pop up and disappear shortly afterwards. You&rsquo;ll see these on your phone&rsquo;s home screen or lock screen.</p>

<p>Badge notifications, on the other hand, are those tiny red circles with numbers that appear on the corner of an app&rsquo;s icon. They let you know how many messages or notifications you have in that app.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Rich Communication Services</h2>

<p>Short for Rich Communication Services, RCS is a messaging platform from Google that serves as an alternative to traditional text messaging. The purpose of this technology is to provide users with an app-like texting experience&mdash;similar to Whatsapp and Facebook Messenger&mdash;with their phone&rsquo;s built-in messaging system.</p>

<p>RCS allows users to interact with each other in a richer and more engaging way. This includes sharing high-quality images and seeing read receipts. When it comes to&nbsp;SMS marketing, companies would have more creative freedom regarding how they interact with their audiences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interestingly enough, Google developed RCS to counter Apple&rsquo;s iMessage. This is because of the substandard text messaging experience between iPhone and Android users.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.android.com/get-the-message/" title="A better texting experience is coming soon to all">In a website campaign</a>, Google puts pressure on Apple to implement RCS as a solution.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2>In-App Messages</h2>

<p>In-app messages are ones you would only receive when you&rsquo;re actively using the application. The main purpose of these types of marketing messages is to boost and maintain user engagement. Once you enter an app, you may see a welcome message informing you about a new deal or an update.</p>

<p>Companies may also add side messages that encourage you to upgrade your account, sign up for a loyalty program, or cash in on special offers. One example is when Duolingo sends a message in-app, welcoming users back who haven&rsquo;t used the app for a while.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="what-you-can-do-with-the-two-main-types-of-messages" src="/images/blog/144/body/what-you-can-do-with-the-two-main-types-of-messages.webp" style="width:100%" /></p>

<h2>What You Can Do With SMS and MMS?</h2>

<p>Now that you&rsquo;re familiar with the different types of text messages, let&rsquo;s shift our focus to the two main forms of texting: <a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-vs-mms/" title="The Difference Between SMS and MMS">SMS and MMS</a>. These are the two primary tools that make up text message marketing. But of course, there&rsquo;s more to text marketing than just exchanging messages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is where an&nbsp;SMS platform comes in, allowing businesses to significantly expand the potential of SMS and MMS. This includes sorting customer lists, automatically filtering phone numbers, personalizing messages, and sending&nbsp;mass texts, just to name a few. Other examples include:</p>

<h3>Triggers</h3>

<p>In cases when timely responses are important, triggers enable you to automate instant responses to frequently asked questions. The trigger would reply with a preset answer whenever a customer texts a keyword. For example, you can create a &ldquo;CONTACT&rdquo; trigger that will send your contact information every time a customer texts that keyword.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Polls</h3>

<p>To do a survey, you would most probably send a question to a group of contacts, wait for their replies, count the answers, and report the results. A marketing software will help you text a poll to hundreds of contacts in a matter of seconds. You&rsquo;ll also be able to see the results in real time.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Templates</h3>

<p>Templates allow you to save time that you would otherwise spend typing the same messages over and over again. For instance, you could select a pre-written template for an order confirmation SMS and send it whenever a customer places an online order. Templates will also help you avoid making typing mistakes that may occur when rewriting messages.</p>

<h3>Autoresponders</h3>

<p>Autoresponders are a set of staggered messages that you automatically space out and send over a period of time. These automated texts go out to contacts who have subscribed to your SMS campaign. This helps you keep your customers engaged and can be an easy way to boost conversions. You can also use autoresponders along with customer segments to set up drip campaigns.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Scheduled Messages</h3>

<p>Being on your phone 24/7 to keep up with your&nbsp;SMS campaigns isn&rsquo;t practical. It can also keep you from planning your next marketing strategy. As for scheduled texts, you can set them in advance to go out after days, weeks, or even months.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Birthday Texts</h3>

<p>It&rsquo;s hard enough to remember the birthdays of your friends and relatives&mdash;imagine having to keep up with the birthdays of customers and business partners. Why waste time checking for that information and sending out wishes when you can automate it? Birthday texts are one of the many features that SMS platforms offer, and they&#39;re a great way to make your customers feel valued.</p>

There are various types of messages available today. Here’s a list of the six most common ones that individuals and businesses alike use on a daily basis.

6 Types of Messages and Why People Use Them

6 Types of Messages People Use Today

<p>With companies shifting their focus to customer experience, businesses are making sure they&rsquo;re available across multiple platforms. This buzz has resulted in two approaches&mdash;having an omnichannel presence as opposed to a multichannel presence. At first glance, these two terms may seem interchangeable. And while people do use them along these lines, each conveys a different meaning.</p>

<h2>What is a Multichannel and Omnichannel Marketing Strategy?</h2>

<p>The strategies by which a brand raises awareness and advertises its product or service are known as marketing channels. These could be websites, actual stores, billboards around the city, or even the packaging design. Customers can contact a company through a variety of methods, including&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-in-omnichannel/">omnichannel SMS</a>, email, live chat, and phone calls.</p>

<p>Channels may be used as a marketing tool and a means of interaction in many circumstances. Email, for instance, may be used for&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-marketing-campaign/">marketing campaigns</a> as well as responding to a customer&#39;s query. Physical stores provide a way for customers to reach out to a company and have their questions answered.</p>

<p>Keep in mind that channels have multiple functions. When communicating with clients via a contact channel, you&#39;re still advertising your company.</p>

<p>Now, on to the bigger picture&mdash;what are multichannel and omnichannel in marketing and&nbsp;customer engagement? The term &ldquo;multichannel&rdquo; entails using more than one channel for spreading brand awareness or contacting customers. You may use&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/guide/sms-marketing/">SMS marketing</a>, put up a billboard promoting your product or service, and so on. While SMS and billboards are not directly related to your company website, they are two different channels that play a role in promoting your business.</p>


<p>Simultaneously, an omnichannel marketing strategy also entails using more than one channel. Here is where it gets tricky. The channels used are integrated to provide a seamless customer experience. This means that if a customer stops using a specific channel, they can pick up where they left off on another channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For example, you may engage in a live chat with a customer service agent and then switch to a video chat without having to start over.</p>

<h2>The Key Differences Between Multichannel and Omnichannel Marketing</h2>

<p>Businesses that use omni vs. multichannel support and marketing may run into an array of issues. Those who primarily use a multichannel solution may experience inconsistencies between channels such as tone and voice. Moreover, the chances of miscommunication are higher, with customers growing frustrated.</p>

<p>Businesses may switch to&nbsp;omnichannel marketing from multichannel marketing to tackle these issues in their strategies. This way, a brand can be more consistent, communication becomes straightforward, and you won&rsquo;t have consistent customers dissatisfied with your services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The key distinction between omnichannel and multichannel marketing is integration. It makes all the difference. Customers may indeed access information through several channels, but multichannel marketing can&rsquo;t get them to function coherently. This is because each channel offers distinct services and operates independently of the others.</p>

<p>The consumer is at the core of omnichannel marketing. They concentrate on the customer&#39;s demands, sending them a tailored message in a cohesive, seamless experience. Because all of the channels are linked together, the client can readily obtain information from any of them.</p>

<p>Customers want a consistent experience across all channels. If they visit your Instagram page, they want to see similar content to your website&rsquo;s tone and voice or your newsletter&rsquo;s wording. This way, you show your client base that you are unified, consistent, and reliable. Every detail matters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a nutshell, a multichannel marketing strategy is when a business uses multiple channels to deliver a particular message to clients. The company is now at the core of the plan, and the channels work actively to transmit that message.</p>

<p>An omnichannel strategy takes a different route. It puts the consumer at the heart of the strategy, with a single message that adjusts to each customer&rsquo;s touchpoint. A multichannel strategy does not allow for that degree of personalization; it&#39;s not as customer-centric as omnichannel.</p>

<h2>Advantages of an Omnichannel Approach</h2>

<p>While a multichannel strategy does have its perks, such as flexibility and channel independence, an omnichannel approach has several added advantages. These include:</p>

<h3>Higher ROI</h3>

<p>An omnichannel solution allows you to allocate your budget and resources more efficiently by focusing on the most successful channels. An omnichannel marketing platform provides a comprehensive view of the performance metrics across all channels, helping you enhance the allocation of resources for optimal results and&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/sms-marketing-roi/">return on investment</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Increased Sales</h3>

<p>By letting customers move seamlessly between channels, an omnichannel solution tends to smooth the customer journey. This has the potential to maximize conversion rates since your customers can carry out transactions on any channel they prefer.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Improved Customer Experience</h3>

<p>An omnichannel strategy aims to provide a consistent experience for audiences across each channel, whether it&rsquo;s SMS, email, phone calls, social media, or&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/instant-messaging-for-businesses/">instant messaging apps</a>. This coordinated and tailored approach helps deliver the best customer experience, increasing brand loyalty and buyer satisfaction.</p>

<h3>Competitive Advantage</h3>

<p>With competition being high, a special offer once in a while or a couple of products isn&rsquo;t enough to gain a customer. To really set your business apart, you&rsquo;ll need to have a successful omnichannel marketing strategy in place. It shows that your business is dedicated to meeting the expectations of customers as well as providing a smooth, customer-centric, and unified experience.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Enhanced Data and Analytics</h3>

<p>An omnichannel approach gives you the ability to not only gather but also unify customer data from various channels. By extracting information from social media channels, website cookies, shopping carts, mailing lists, and point-of-sale systems, you can get a better view and understanding of your audience. You can leverage that information to offer tailored experiences and optimize your campaigns.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Omni Vs. Multichannel Marketing Examples</h2>

<p>Analyzing customer insights about their behavior or attitudes is a concern for many companies. They have a small grasp of how the discovery occurred and what behaviors transpired throughout their engagement with the brand. The most critical component of deciding between the two strategies is determining which one is best for your company. Let&rsquo;s take a look at multi vs. omnichannel examples to better understand each case.</p>

<h3>Multi Vs. Omnichannel Support</h3>

<p>Multichannel support differs from omnichannel support in that the context and history of the customer are not shared across channels. Every channel is responsible for a separate chat stream. Typically, separate agents handle the interactions across these separate channels.</p>

<p>However, this isn&#39;t to say that multichannel capability isn&#39;t useful. Samsung, for example, provides help for inquiry resolution across a variety of channels, including call centers, online and offline messaging, social media, and community support.</p>

<h3>Multi Vs. Omnichannel Contact Center</h3>

<p>Having a multichannel contact center means that your support function is now available across several channels. Omnichannel, on the other hand, refers to a consistent experience across all of these channels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although multichannel appears to require less time and commitment, omnichannel provides more benefits. An omnichannel contact center runs across several platforms with customer data continuity. Multichannel implies that agents specialize in a specific channel and handle that particular channel only&#39;s interactions independently.</p>

<h3>Omni Vs. Multichannel Marketing</h3>

<p>The goal of multichannel strategies is to deliver a single message across multiple channels. You may promote a certain promo code on a social media account to entice people to buy a product or service using the promo code.</p>

<p>An omnichannel marketing strategy aims to engage users by delivering various sorts of information across several channels. A person may receive an email advertising a new product while also getting a promo code for the same product on Instagram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In short, multichannel vs.&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/products/omnichannel/">omnichannel messaging</a> can be broken down into these points:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Multichannel is the old way; omnichannel is the new way</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Multichannel requires one main message; omnichannel marketing has multiple&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Multichannel implies one-on-one interaction; omnichannel marketing is more personalized</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h3>Omni Vs. Multichannel eCommerce</h3>

<p>Both omnichannel and multichannel&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/industries/ecommerce/">eCommerce</a> entail engaging customers across numerous channels throughout the customer experience. Multichannel emphasizes the channel itself, whereas omnichannel focuses on the customer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since each channel is managed separately, with its own strategy, performance metrics, and unique customer experience, a multichannel approach typically reinforces current channel silos. All consumer interactions are integrated with omnichannel eCommerce, offering a smooth experience despite how and where they interact with your company.</p>

<h3>Omni Vs. Multichannel Marketing for Retail</h3>

<p>How brick-and-mortar stores and a company&#39;s online activities operate together is known as&nbsp;omnichannel retailing. A multichannel retail strategy involves a company that has both physical and online stores, but its activities are divided into various channels rather than being integrated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Multichannel retailing sends the same or unrelated material to a consumer across several channels, whereas omnichannel retail also builds on interactions across multiple channels to progress the customer journey at every touchpoint.</p>

<h3>Multichannel Vs. Omnichannel Marketing for Banking</h3>

<p>Omnichannel banking ensures that customers can access several integrated support and service channels and seamlessly migrate between them to&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/industries/financial-services/">fulfill their financial needs</a>. These include voice and phone calls, SMS, live chat, email, and so on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Customers can access banking services through a variety of channels, including ATMs, call centers, mobile banking, and more. However, since these are not designed to provide a seamless experience, the services may not perform consistently across the channels.</p>

<p>Each of these channels offers a variety of services, some of which may overlap. Each channel, on the other hand, functions independently from the others. This strategy is multichannel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Multi Vs. Omni: Which Should You Choose?</h2>

<p>It&rsquo;s fair to say that both approaches have their benefits, even though omnichannel is ahead of the game. In any case, choosing the right strategy essentially depends on your business needs.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>When to Choose Multiple Channels</h3>

<p>If you happen to be a bit short on resources and prefer not to invest in an omnichannel solution, multichannel is the next best thing. Implementing an omnichannel approach involves a great deal of work. That being said, going for multichannel marketing might be easier and can still yield pretty decent results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main advantage of multichannel is that it tends to be flexible since each channel works separately. Cooperation isn&rsquo;t as vital in this case, which means those responsible for each channel can focus on their own platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Be that as it may, multichannel isn&rsquo;t as cheap as it may seem. You&rsquo;ll still need to invest in the right infrastructure to be able to scale your operations. Marketing automation is an integral part of the strategy as it enables growth without compromising on quality.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>When to Choose Omnichannel Marketing</h3>

<p>Omnichannel is an excellent choice for businesses of any size&mdash;if done correctly. Investing in and maintaining an omnichannel strategy is known to be resource-intensive. But if you have the resources to spare, the payoff is worth it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This communication approach is proven to bring exceptional outcomes in terms of conversions, customer retention, brand loyalty&mdash;the list goes on. With a solid strategy in place, you can form a unified platform where you guide prospects through the buying process and turn them into frequent customers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>How to Implement Successful Omnichannel Strategies</h2>

<p>As mentioned above, implementing an omnichannel solution involves relatively more work and resources. But it&rsquo;s no less a fruitful path to venture down. Taking a few key measures will help you maximize the payoff.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Invest in the Right Solutions</h3>

<p>To implement a solid omnichannel strategy, your marketing and sales teams need to have the right tools at their disposal. Consider investing in sales, communication, and CRM systems that are integrated and user-friendly.</p>

<p>The platforms you choose should be adaptable to customers&rsquo; needs and the contextual aspects of their interactions. Developing an omnichannel approach also involves opting for advanced software that can streamline your workflows.&nbsp;</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll want to invest in a contact center as well as a customer engagement solution that can allow you to offer omnichannel support and service. This helps in guaranteeing customer satisfaction. Aim for a&nbsp;<a href="https://dexatel.com/blog/cloud-contact-center-provider/">cloud contact center</a> that supports digital interactions in addition to inbound and outbound calls. Certain platforms also feature internal messaging, CRM integrations, skill-based routing, and AI-powered smart routing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Know Your Audience</h3>

<p>Understanding your audience is essential for a successful omnichannel strategy. Know what they want, what they expect, and what their pain points are to figure out how you can help them throughout their customer journey.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll also want to find out which channels they prefer to tailor your messaging and provide personalized customer experiences. Using a customer persona can help you understand your audience better. Make use of the information about customer preferences you extract from data and analytics, as well as customer feedback and social listening, to make data-driven decisions for your business.</p>

<h3>Leverage Insights and Prioritize Data Security</h3>

<p>The success of an omnichannel strategy largely depends on the insights you leverage from various systems. Storing and sharing data securely and effectively is key to providing a smooth and consistent customer experience. By integrating data from inventory management, CRM, and other systems, you can take the right steps to enhance your campaigns and guarantee a personalized and seamless customer journey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And speaking of customer data, you must take all the necessary security measures. Customers trust you by sharing their personal details with you, so it&#39;s only fair that you respect their privacy by adhering to data protection principles.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Reorganize Your Structure</h3>

<p>Adopting omnichannel strategies involves effective communication and cooperation between sales, marketing, warehousing, development, and customer service teams. This means rethinking the organizational structure of your business. You&rsquo;ll also need to equip your teams with the tools and technology needed to facilitate cross-department workflows.</p>

An omnichannel vs. multichannel approach refers to using digital and traditional methods to communicate with customers. Here's how to differentiate them. 

Dexatel Blog

The Ultimate Omnichannel Vs. Multichannel Comparison Guide