In today's digital age, businesses are always looking for new ways to reach out to potential customers. SMS marketing is one such method that has gained popularity over the years due to its high open rates and quick delivery. However, including links in SMS marketing messages can be tricky due to character limits. This is where shortened links come in. In this article, we will discuss SMS marketing with shortened links.
Introduction
SMS marketing is a popular marketing technique that involves sending promotional messages to potential customers via text message. This method is effective due to its high open rates and quick delivery. However, including links in SMS messages can be tricky due to character limits. This is where shortened links come in. By using shortened links, businesses can include links in their SMS messages without exceeding the character limit.
What is SMS Marketing?
SMS marketing is a marketing technique that involves sending promotional messages to potential customers via text message. These messages can include promotional offers, updates, reminders, and more. SMS marketing is popular due to its high open rates and quick delivery. According to a study, SMS messages have a 98% open rate, and 90% of these messages are read within three minutes of receipt.
The Limitations of SMS Marketing
Despite its effectiveness, SMS marketing has certain limitations. One of the most significant limitations is the character limit. SMS messages can only contain 160 characters per message. This makes it difficult for businesses to include links in their messages. Links take up a lot of characters, which leaves less room for the actual message. This is where shortened links come in.
What are Shortened Links?
Shortened links are a type of URL that has been shortened to take up less space. These links are created by using a URL shortening service. URL shortening services take long URLs and create a shorter version that redirects to the original URL when clicked. Shortened links are often used on social media platforms like Twitter, where character limits are strict.
How do Shortened Links Work?
Shortened links work by redirecting to the original URL when clicked. When a user clicks on a shortened link, they are redirected to a page that contains the original URL. This process happens automatically, and the user doesn't have to do anything else. Shortened links are created by using a URL shortening service. These services take long URLs and create a shorter version that redirects to the original URL when clicked.
The Benefits of SMS Marketing with Shortened Links
SMS marketing with shortened links has several benefits for businesses. Some of these benefits include:
- Increased click-through rates: By using shortened links, businesses can increase the click-through rates of their SMS marketing messages. Shortened links take up less space, which leaves more room for the actual message. This makes it more likely that users will click on the link.
- Increased engagement: Shortened links can also increase engagement. By including links in SMS marketing messages, businesses can direct users to their website or social media pages. This can increase engagement with the business and lead to more conversions.
- Improved tracking: Shortened links can also help businesses track the effectiveness of their SMS marketing campaigns. By using a URL shortening service, businesses can track how many people clicked on the link and how many of those clicks resulted in a conversion. This information can be used to improve future SMS marketing campaigns.
Examples of SMS Marketing with Shortened Links
There are many ways businesses can use SMS marketing with shortened links. Here are a few examples:
- Retail: A retail business can send SMS messages to customers with a promotional offer and a shortened link to their online store. Customers can click on the link to take advantage of the offer.
- Restaurant: A restaurant can send SMS messages to customers with a link to their online menu. Customers can click on the link to view the menu and place an order.
- Real estate: A real estate agent can send SMS messages to potential buyers with a link to a virtual tour of a property. Potential buyers can click on the link to view the tour and get more information about the property.
Best Practices for SMS Marketing with Shortened Links
When using SMS marketing with shortened links, it's important to follow best practices to ensure the success of your campaign. Here are a few best practices:
- Keep it short: Keep your message short and to the point. Remember that you only have 160 characters to work with.
- Include a CTA: Include a call-to-action in your message to encourage users to click on the link.
- Use a URL shortening service: Use a reputable URL shortening service to create your shortened links. This will ensure that your links are safe and secure.
- Test your links: Before sending your SMS message, test your links to make sure they work properly.
- Track your results: Use analytics to track the effectiveness of your SMS marketing campaign. This will help you improve future campaigns.
Conclusion
SMS marketing with shortened links is an effective way for businesses to reach out to potential customers. By using shortened links, businesses can include links in their SMS messages without exceeding the character limit. Shortened links can increase click-through rates, engagement, and improve tracking. When using SMS marketing with shortened links, it's important to follow best practices to ensure the success of your campaign.
FAQs
Are shortened links safe to use in SMS messages?
Yes, shortened links are safe to use in SMS messages as long as you use a reputable URL shortening service.
How can I track the effectiveness of my SMS marketing campaign with shortened links?
You can track the effectiveness of your SMS marketing campaign with shortened links by using analytics to measure how many people clicked on the link and how many of those clicks resulted in a conversion.
Can I use multiple shortened links in one SMS message?
Yes, you can use multiple shortened links in one SMS message, but it's important to make sure the message is still clear and concise.
How often should I send SMS marketing messages with shortened links?
It's best to send SMS marketing messages with shortened links on a regular basis, but not too frequently. Once a week or once a month is a good place to start.
Are there any character limits for shortened links in SMS messages?
No, there are no character limits for shortened links in SMS messages. However, it's important to remember that the entire message, including the link, must be 160 characters or less.
