5 Best Text Message Marketing Platforms For Small Business

One of small businesses’ biggest challenges is maintaining consistent and effective communication with their customers.

With countless marketing messages consumers receive every day, it can be difficult to capture attention.

Traditional methods like email marketing often see low engagement rates, and social media platforms are competitive.

This is where text messaging services become beneficial. Text messaging has become a powerful tool for small businesses.

With the ability to reach customers instantly, it offers a direct line of communication that can boost engagement and drive sales.

This blog post will explore the five best text message services for small businesses, covering essential features, top providers, and implementation tips.

Why Should Small Businesses Use Text Message Marketing?

A text message marketing service allows businesses to send SMS (Short Message Service) or MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) messages.

These services can be used for various purposes, including marketing campaigns, customer support, and appointment reminders.

Unlike more generic forms of digital marketing, such as email or social media, SMS allows for highly targeted and personalized communication.

For small businesses with limited marketing budgets, SMS marketing can offer a high return on investment.

Text messaging platforms often have pay-as-you-go pricing models or low-cost monthly plans, which makes them accessible even to businesses that can’t afford large ad campaigns.

Moreover, with SMS marketing, there are no additional design costs. You don’t need to hire a graphic designer or spend time crafting elaborate emails—just write a concise, value-driven message and hit send.

Start-up businesses benefit from higher engagement rates because text messages are typically read quickly. Unlike social media posts, which may require multiple exposures to elicit a response, SMS prompts immediate action.

Small businesses often struggle with handling routine tasks like appointment reminders, follow-up messages, or order confirmations.

SMS marketing platforms allow for easy automation of these tasks, freeing business owners and staff time to focus on more strategic activities.

5 Best Text Messaging Services for Small Business

Given the numerous options available, choosing the best text messaging service for your small business can be daunting.

We have compiled a list of 5 top providers, highlighting their key features and pricing.

1. Textellent

Unlike many platforms that require customization or technical setup, Textellent is designed to be ready for immediate use.

Small businesses can get started quickly without the need for developers or complicated installations.

One of the standout features of Textellent is its drip campaign functionality, which allows businesses to automate a series of messages to nurture customer relationships over time.

Drip campaigns ensure your audience stays engaged with your brand without requiring constant manual effort.

Textellent simplifies building your subscriber list with tools that allow customers to opt-in by texting a keyword. The platform also supports various opt-in methods to make it easier to build a large, engaged audience over time.

For service-based businesses like salons, clinics, or restaurants, Textellent offers a robust scheduling app that allows customers to book appointments or make reservations.

Customers can schedule directly via text, which is a convenient experience while reducing manual booking tasks for your staff.

No-shows are a common problem for service-based small businesses, but Textellent helps reduce this with automated appointment reminders.

Automatically sending reminders before appointments can reduce missed bookings and boost customer satisfaction.

Small businesses often need to reach large groups of customers, and Textellent makes this easy with its bulk messaging feature. You can send promotions or important updates to your entire list or specific segments with just a few clicks.

Pricing

Textellent offers a 2-week free trial to test all key features.

• After that, the Essential Plan costs $49/month for 750 SMS credits, with free incoming messages.
• The Standard Plan is $99/month for two users and 2,000 SMS credits.
• Custom Premium Plans are also available for businesses with more specific needs.

2. TextMagic

TextMagic offers a simple and reliable messaging platform that helps businesses communicate quickly with customers, partners, and staff.

It easily connects to your helpdesk or other essential apps through API, Email to SMS, or Zapier for multi-channel support.

Image Source: TextMagic

The platform also improves efficiency with automated text messaging workflows that allow you to link EZ Texting to your favorite tools using no-code Zapier integrations or SMS APIs.

Additionally, EZ Texting supports two-way conversational SMS to keep conversations going, share responses with team members, and address urgent inquiries in real-time.

Pros

• Expand reach with SMS, email, and voice
• Contact thousands with one click
• Build lists with smart import
• Instant solutions to customer inquiries

Cons

• It may require some technical knowledge for advanced integrations
• Nurturing drip campaigns are unavailable

Pricing

TextMagic offers a pay-as-you-go pricing model, with rates starting at $0.02 per text message. This allows businesses to purchase credits as needed without any monthly fees.

3. SimpleTexting

SimpleTexting is a user-friendly SMS marketing tool that simplifies sending texts and conversing with customers. Its two-way messaging feature allows businesses to engage in real-time conversations with customers.

Image Source: SimpleTexting

For small businesses needing to reach large audiences, mass texting enables the quick delivery of messages to hundreds or thousands of recipients simultaneously.

SimpleTexting includes an AI message generator that helps users easily craft compelling messages.

The platform also supports scheduled and recurring texts to plan campaigns and ensure consistent communication with their audience.

Autoresponders can be set up to reply instantly to incoming messages and ensure customers receive timely replies outside business hours.

SimpleTexting’s segment features allow businesses to group their contacts based on different criteria.

Pros

• Engage in bidirectional communication
• No charge for incoming messages
• Costs 3 credits per message.
• Create texts using AI

Cons

• Fewer advanced features compared to some competitors
• Limited web/embed integrations
• Nurturing drip campaigns are unavailable
• Hi-Volume lines may not be available

Pricing

SimpleTexting’s pricing begins at $39 per month for 500 credits, with the option to scale up as your messaging requirements grow. You’re only billed for outgoing messages. They also offer carrier registration for an extra fee.

4. EZ Texting

EZ Texting provides a comprehensive suite of SMS marketing tools that simplify and speed up communication with your contacts.

You can send messages to your entire list or create segmented groups for more targeted messaging.

Image Source: EZ Texting

The platform’s two-way texting feature enables businesses to engage in real-time customer conversations, enhancing personalized communication.

With AI Compose, you can quickly generate messages, saving time and increasing response rates by up to 30%.

Their text automation ensures immediate engagement by sending automatic replies to incoming texts, while text scheduling allows you to plan and send messages at specific times.

Pros

• Easily trigger personalized texts
• Track performance effortlessly with EZ Texting’s reporting features
• Instantly deliver information with automated texts
• Handle unlimited contacts for large-scale texting
• Hi-Volume lines available

Cons

• Higher costs for larger message volumes
• Limited advanced features in lower-priced plans

Pricing

The Launch Plan costs $25/month for up to 500 contacts.

The Boost Plan covers 500 to 2,000 contacts, starting at $75/month.

The Scale Plan begins at $125/month for 2,000 to 50,000 contacts.

Large businesses with over 50,000 contacts can choose the Enterprise Plan, starting at $3,000/month.

5. ClickSend

ClickSend is a business communication platform that enables you to connect with customers and staff through SMS, rich media, email, and direct mail. 

Image Source: ClickSend

The platform supports multiple communication methods, including SMS, MMS, voice calls, letters, postcards, and chat.

For developers, ClickSend provides powerful APIs to build apps that use the fastest and most reliable cloud communication services.

It also supports rich multimedia messaging for engaging experiences with real-time conversations via RCS or messaging apps. It can also integrate with popular business apps to improve workflows without disruption.

Pros

• Multimedia messaging capabilities
• Advanced content options with rich messaging capabilities
• Audio communication features
• Digital to fax solutions

Cons

• Length of the text is short for its price
• Basic reporting tools

Pricing

ClickSend features a pay-as-you-go pricing structure, starting at $0.02 per text message. Volume discounts are available for businesses that send a large number of messages.

How to Start Text Message Marketing for Small Business

The key to successful text message marketing is to have a clear strategy, the right tools, and a solid understanding of connecting with your audience through SMS.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to launch SMS campaigns.

Step 1: Set Your Text Message Marketing Goals

Knowing exactly what you want to achieve will guide the direction of your messaging, the frequency of your texts, and the types of campaigns you run.

Here are some common goals for small businesses using text message marketing:

• Increase sales: Promote special offers, flash sales, or exclusive discounts.
• Improve customer engagement: Send personalized messages to build stronger customer relationships.
• Appointment reminders: Reduce no-shows by sending timely reminders.
• Customer support: Use SMS for quick responses to customer inquiries.

Step 2: Build Your Customer List

One of the fastest ways to grow your SMS list is by offering an incentive in exchange for a customer’s phone number.

People are more likely to sign up if they feel they are getting something valuable in return. You can offer discounts, freebies, or exclusive content as a reward for opting in.

Adding an opt-in form to your website or online checkout process is a seamless way to collect customer phone numbers.

Make sure the form is visible, easy to fill out, and includes a clear explanation of what customers are signing up for.

Customers are more likely to provide their information When they understand they’re opting in for exclusive offers or important updates.

Building trust with your audience is key to long-term success. One way to do this is by ensuring that your customers can easily opt out if they no longer wish to receive messages.

Always include simple opt-out instructions in your messages, such as “Reply STOP to unsubscribe.”

Step 3: Choose the Right Text Message Marketing Platform

As mentioned earlier, choosing the right platform is key to successful campaigns. Most platforms offer features like scheduling, automation, and analytics, but it’s essential to pick the one that fits your business’s specific needs.

Questions to ask when choosing a platform:

• Does the platform integrate with my CRM or eCommerce system?
• Can I segment my audience for personalized campaigns?
• Are there tools for automation and scheduling?
• Is the platform compliant with SMS marketing regulations?

Textellent is the best texting platform to get started. They offer flexibility to cater to companies looking for ease of use and powerful automation features.

Step 4: Create Your Text Message Campaign

With your goals set, your customer list built, and your platform chosen, it’s time to craft an impactful text message campaign.

You want to capture attention immediately while keeping the message personal and actionable.

To make your message effective, focus on the essential information. If possible, you can start with a warm greeting (using the customer’s name is a great way to personalize the message).

Then, clearly state your offer or announcement, and end with a strong call to action (CTA). Ensure the CTA tells the recipient exactly what you want them to do, such as clicking a link or replying to the message.

Remember, timing is essential for any text message campaign. The right time depends on your audience and the nature of your business, but there are general guidelines that can help.

For retail or promotional campaigns, sending messages late morning or early afternoon (around 10 AM to 2 PM) on weekdays typically works best.

If you’re running a weekend promotion, sending texts on a Saturday morning is ideal because customers are likely planning their shopping for the weekend.

Step 5: Monitor and Optimize Your Campaigns

Once your campaign is live, don’t forget to monitor its performance.

Many text message marketing platforms like Textellent offer analytics tools that allow you to track metrics like open rates, click-through rates, and conversions. You can use this data to make informed decisions about future campaigns.

If you notice that certain messages perform better than others, consider A/B testing different versions of your message to see which resonates most with your audience.

You can test different offers, CTAs, or even the time you send messages to optimize your results.

How to Choose the Best Text Messaging Service for Your Small Business

Selecting the right SMS service for your small business involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your needs and budget. Here are some key steps to help you make an informed decision.

Assessing Your Business Needs

Start by understanding what you need from a text messaging service. Consider the following questions:

• What is the primary purpose of using text messaging? (e.g., marketing, customer support, appointment reminders)
• How many messages do you plan to send each month?
• Do you need features like automation, personalization, or two-way communication?

Budget Considerations

Evaluate your budget and compare the pricing plans of different providers. SMS services often offer tiered pricing based on the number of messages or features included.

Ensure that your service offers good value for money without compromising on essential features.

Trial and Evaluation

Some SMS marketing services offer free trials or demo accounts. Use these opportunities to test the platforms and see how they fit your business operations. During the trial period, consider ease of use, feature availability, and customer support.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Research customer reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other small businesses.

Look for feedback on reliability, ease of use, customer service, and overall satisfaction. Reviews can provide valuable information about potential issues and benefits of SMS apps.

Best Practices for Implementing Business Texting Services

Implementing a text messaging service requires a strategic approach to maximize its benefits while providing value to your customers. Here are some best practices to follow.

Building Your Subscriber List

Growing a strong SMS subscriber list is the foundation of any successful text messaging campaign.

Encourage your customers to opt in to receive messages by offering incentives such as discounts, exclusive offers, or valuable content.

Crafting Effective Messages

Creating engaging and effective messages is crucial to keeping your audience interested.

Keep messages concise, clear, and action-oriented. Personalize messages whenever possible to make your customers feel valued.

Timing and Frequency

The timing and frequency of your messages can impact their effectiveness. Send messages at times when your customers are most likely to read them, and avoid sending too many messages to prevent irritation.

For example, a restaurant might find that sending promotional messages on Friday afternoons increases response rates as customers plan their weekend activities.

Monitoring and Adjusting Campaigns

Use analytics and reporting tools to monitor the performance of your text messaging campaigns regularly.

Track metrics such as open, click-through, and response rates to understand what works and what doesn’t. Use this data to adjust your strategy and improve future campaigns.

How to Integrate Textellent into Your Business

Integrating Textellent into your business is a simple process that can improve customer communication and marketing efficiency. Here’s how:

Step 1: Sign up for Textellent

First, create your account on Textellent. You’ll need to provide your business details and select a subscription plan that aligns with your business needs.

After registering, you can explore a 2-week free trial to test out the key features before committing to a plan.

During this period, you can set up your business profile, import your contact list, and familiarize yourself with the platform’s capabilities.

Step 2: Consider Integration Options

Decide if you want to integrate Textellent directly with your website or CRM system. You can find API documentation on Textellent’s website or contact their support team for assistance if you choose to integrate. 

This integration can seamlessly sync customer data and automate actions, such as sending SMS messages when a customer performs a specific task on your site.

Step 3: Compose Your Text Message

Access your Textellent dashboard and navigate to the message creation tool. Create your message carefully, considering character limits and your marketing objectives.

Use personalization features and add images to tailor messages directly to your audience.

Step 4: Select Your Audience

Choose who will receive your message. You can segment your audience based on previous interactions and tags or manually select contacts.

Tags can represent various things, such as events attended, products purchased, preferences, and more. 

To comply with legal regulations, always ensure that recipients consent to receive SMS messages.

Step 5: Schedule Messages

Decide when to send SMS messages. Textellent’s scheduling feature allows you to send messages immediately or set them for a future time. Consider your audience’s time zone and the relevance of your message’s timing.

Step 6: Track and Optimize

Once your message is sent, monitor its performance closely. Look at delivery rates, open rates, and any responses or actions that result from the message.

Use this feedback to tweak your approach, refine your messages, and improve the effectiveness of future marketing campaigns.

Drive Results with Textellent’s Easy-to-Use SMS Marketing Tools

Ready to boost your small business’s customer engagement? Textellent makes it easy for small businesses to connect with customers and drive results.

With simple, user-friendly tools and affordable pricing, you can build stronger relationships with your audience through effective text message campaigns.

From personalized promotions to appointment reminders, Textellent allows you to manage all your text marketing needs in one place.

You can automate and schedule messages, ensuring your customers receive timely updates while saving time and effort.

Simplify your SMS campaigns and drive meaningful engagement. Sign up for a free trial or schedule a demo today!

FAQs About Text Messaging Services for Small Business

Is text message marketing legal for small businesses?

Yes, text message marketing is legal if it complies with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). This law requires businesses to obtain explicit customer consent before sending promotional messages and provides guidelines on handling opt-outs and managing customer data.

Are there text messaging services for small businesses that offer free incoming SMS messages?

Several SMS services designed for small businesses include free incoming SMS messages, like Textellent,  as part of their features, but it is important to verify that. This allows businesses to receive texts from customers without incurring extra costs.

Can I send multimedia messages (MMS) as well as SMS? 

Many text messaging services support MMS, allowing you to send images, videos, and other multimedia content.

Textellent offers a rich media library where you can choose from high-quality images and videos to upgrade your messages. This feature makes it easy to create visually engaging content that captures your audience’s attention and drives higher engagement rates.