Most local businesses are sitting on a list of past customers they never contact. Phone numbers in the CRM, emails from old invoices, contacts in the owner’s phone. That list is the cheapest marketing you will ever have, because those people already know and trust you.
The question is how to reach them. Email or text? The answer is both, for different jobs.
When text wins
Text messages are short, personal and usually seen within minutes. That makes them perfect for anything time sensitive:
- Open slots: “We have 3 openings Thursday and Friday. Reply YES to grab one.”
- Reminders: appointment reminders, service due dates, reservations
- Quick offers: a weekend special, a limited time deal
- Follow up: checking in on a quote or a lead that went quiet
- Review requests: a thank you with a direct review link
Keep texts short, clear and human. One message, one action. And do not overdo it. Texting is personal, so two to four texts a month is plenty for most businesses.
When email wins
Email gives you room. Photos, stories, before and afters, explanations. That makes it better for building trust over time:
- Helpful tips: a seasonal checklist, a how to, what to watch out for
- Proof: customer stories, reviews, project photos
- Announcements: new services, new locations, new hours
- Welcome series: introducing new customers to everything you offer
Email works best when it is useful, not just a coupon. People open emails from businesses that consistently teach them something or show them something interesting.
A simple monthly plan
You do not need a complicated calendar. This four week rhythm works for most local businesses:
- Week 1, email: a helpful tip or seasonal checklist
- Week 2, text: open slots or a short offer
- Week 3, email: a customer story, before and after or new reviews
- Week 4, text: a last call reminder before the month ends
Automations that run on their own
Campaigns are what you send on purpose. Automations are what run in the background every day:
- Welcome messages for new customers
- Appointment reminders and no show follow ups
- Win back messages for customers who have not booked in 90 days
- Service reminders for tune ups, cleanings or renewals
- Review requests after every job
Set these up once and they keep bringing customers back without you lifting a finger.
Stay legal and respectful
For texting, register your business number with the carriers, only text people who have done business with you or opted in, and always include a way to opt out. For email, include your business address and an unsubscribe link. It keeps you compliant and it keeps your list happy.
Want it done for you?
Our email and SMS marketing service plans your month, writes every message in your voice, handles business texting registration and tracks everything back to replies and bookings. Built for St. Louis and Metro East businesses that want repeat customers without the busywork.
