--- title: 1. SMS Messaging Best Practices description: "***This is a guide, not templates.*** **Stop** only relying on the **phone** and \"**doing business one way**\". The **majority** of leads we pass on to our agents will respond to a **text** before hopping on a **phone call**. Below are…" url: "https://clients.financevine.ca/docs/sms-messaging-best-practices/" updated: "2025-03-05" category: 9. SMS and Email Messaging Standards --- # 1. SMS Messaging Best Practices ***This is a guide, not templates.*** **Stop** only relying on the **phone** and "**doing business one way**". The **majority** of leads we pass on to our agents will respond to a **text** before hopping on a **phone call**. Below are some examples of what **to do** and **not to do**. **Cut Through the Noise:** People are bombarded with generic marketing. Tailoring your message to their pain points immediately grabs their attention. **Demonstrate Understanding:** Showing you understand their specific challenges builds trust and rapport. **Respect Their Time:** Short, focused messages that address their immediate needs are more likely to get a response. **Drive Action:** By highlighting how you can solve their problem *now*, you create a sense of urgency and encourage them to engage. **Personalization is Key:** Generic "we're the best" statements are easily ignored. Personalized messages that speak to their individual circumstances are far more effective. **SMS is Immediate:** SMS is a very direct and immediate form of communication. Wasting that communication channel with generic information is a missed opportunity **SMS examples and analysis - What to do and what not to do** **SMS 1: Original vs. Re-write** **and analysis** Hi, it's [Agent Name], when are you available for your consultation? **SMS 1 Re-write:** Hi, it's [Agent's Name], I have some free time now or tomorrow at [specific time] tomorrow? Please let me know which works best for you. I’m looking forward to helping you :) - **Original Weaknesses:** - **Too Open-Ended:** "When are you available?" puts the onus entirely on the lead and requires them to do all the work. - **Lacks Specificity:** It doesn't offer any concrete options, making it easy for the lead to delay or ignore. - **Impersonal:** It is a very generic message. - **Re-write Strengths:** - **Offers Specific Options:** Providing two concrete time slots makes it easier for the lead to choose. - **Creates Urgency:** Offering "now" as an option can create a sense of immediacy. - **Positive and Friendly Tone:** The smiley face and "looking forward to help you" create a welcoming atmosphere. - **Easy to respond to:** By giving 2 options, the lead can simply reply with "Now" or "Tomorrow". ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **SMS 2: Original vs. Re-write and analysis** Hi, it’s [Agent’s Name], you filled in a mortgage form request with FinanceVine. I’ve tried several times to reach out to you via email and phone. Please let me know how we can help you **SMS 2 Re-write:** Hi [lead’s name], [Agent’s Name] here, I’m still looking to help with [specific mortgage request]. I know life is hectic, to make it easier for you, please pick a time here: [Calendar link] that works best for you. See you soon! - **Original Weaknesses:** - **Slightly Accusatory:** "I've tried several times to reach out" can make the lead feel guilty or pressured. - **Vague Call to Action:** "Please let me know how we can help you" is generic and doesn't provide a clear next step. - **Lacks Personalization:** It does not use the lead's name. - **Re-write Strengths:** - **Personalized:** Using the lead's name creates a connection. - **Empathy:** "I know life is hectic" acknowledges the lead's potential busyness. - **Clear Call to Action:** The calendar link provides a simple and convenient way to schedule a consultation. - **Reinforces Value:** Reminds the lead of the specific mortgage request. - **Friendly Ending:** "See you soon!" ends the message on a positive note. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **SMS 3: Original vs. Re-write** Hello, my name is [Agent’s Name], I see that you inquired with FinanceVine for debt consolidation, we have low rates and a great team.  Please let me know when you are available to chat.  **SMS 3 Re-write:** Hello [Lead’s name], you’ve come to the right place, I work primarily with debt consolidation cases and have access to top-tier lenders ready and able to assist you in borrowing at fair rates. I know how stressful these situations can be, but rest assured I’m here to help. Please pick a time here: [Calendar Link], and we can get you those needed funds ASAP! - **Original Weaknesses:** - **Generic and Formulaic:** "We have low rates and a great team" is a common and uninspiring statement. - **Weak Call to Action:** "Please let me know when you are available to chat" is vague and doesn't encourage immediate action. - **Lacks empathy:** Debt consolidation is normally a stressful situation, and this message does not acknowledge that. - **Re-write Strengths:** - **Personalized:** Using the lead's name creates a connection. - **Empathy and Reassurance:** "I know how stressful these situations can be, but rest assured I'm here to help" builds trust. - **Highlights Expertise:** "I work primarily with debt consolidation cases" establishes credibility. - **Strong Call to Action:** The calendar link provides a simple and convenient way to schedule a consultation, and the "ASAP" creates urgency. - **Focuses on Benefits:** "Get you those needed funds" emphasizes the desired outcome. **Key SMS Messaging Principles** - **Brevity is Key:** SMS messages should be short and to the point. - **Personalization Matters:** Use the lead's name whenever possible. - **Clear Call to Action:** Tell the lead exactly what you want them to do. - **Create Urgency:** Encourage immediate response. - **Be Empathetic:** Acknowledge the lead's potential concerns. - **Provide Value:** Highlight the benefits of your services. - **Use Calendar Links:** Make scheduling as easy as possible. - **Positive Tone:** Keep the message friendly and welcoming.