Text and email marketing have become two of the most powerful tools for businesses that want to grow. When used separately, each has its own strengths. But when combined, they offer a smart and affordable way to connect with customers, build loyalty, and drive more sales. This article explores how you can bring these two methods together for better results and how other businesses are already doing it.
Why Combining Text and Email Marketing Works
People are always connected to their phones. Whether they are shopping, eating, or relaxing at home, they are only a click away. Text messages usually get opened within minutes, while emails offer space for visuals, longer messages, and branded content. Together, they make a strong marketing team.
1. Reach Customers Anywhere, Anytime
Mobile phones are always nearby. That means your message can reach your customer wherever they are. Text messages are great for instant updates like:
- Flash sales
- Appointment reminders
- Delivery tracking
Emails are better for:
- Detailed product updates
- Newsletters
- Special promotions
Combining both ensures your message gets noticed and acted upon.
2. Real-Life Business Example: A Local Clothing Brand
A small clothing business in Dubai used email to send out new arrival updates every Friday. But customers were missing out on weekend flash sales. By adding SMS messages on Saturday mornings, they saw a 40% rise in weekend sales. This shows how one fills the gap of the other.
3. Double the Engagement
When customers see your promotion in both their inbox and message list, they are more likely to respond. This increases the chances of:
- Clicks on your offers
- Store visits
- Website traffic
A coupon sent through email may be ignored, but a reminder SMS can push the customer to use it before the deadline.
4. Better Personalization with Segments
Text and email marketing work better when you don’t treat all customers the same. Using customer behavior, you can:
- Send product recommendations
- Remind them about abandoned carts
- Wish them a happy birthday with a discount
For example, someone who clicked on a men’s product email but didn’t buy can be sent an SMS reminding them about a limited-time offer.
5. Easy Signups Through Cross-Promotion
Make it easy for people to sign up for both. For example:
- Add an email sign-up link in your SMS
- Promote your SMS service in every email footer
You can also offer small rewards like:
- 10% off your next order
- Early access to new products
This helps you build a multi-channel contact list.
6. Use Tools That Support Both
To manage both channels smoothly, try marketing platforms that offer email and SMS features. Some common tools include:
- Mailchimp + Twilio
- Sendinblue
- RedSpider’s SMS Marketing Dashboard
These tools help you:
- Track open and click rates
- Schedule messages
- Segment your audience
7. Timing is Everything
Send emails when users are likely to be reading content, like in the morning or early evening. SMS should be used only when it’s urgent or time-sensitive, such as:
- “Last hour to get 20% off!”
- “Limited seats left – register now!”
Too many messages can annoy customers. Make a balance:
- Emails: 1–2 per week
- SMS: 1–4 per month
8. Measure the Impact
Use performance metrics to improve future campaigns. Look at:
- Open rates (SMS often 90%+)
- Click-through rates
- Unsubscribe rates
Example:
An email campaign that saw a 12% open rate increased to 28% after adding an SMS follow-up.
9. Keep It Legal and Respectful
Always get user permission before sending messages. This builds trust and keeps you compliant with regulations. Follow best practices:
- Ask users to opt in
- Provide an easy way to opt out
- Do not spam
Example opt-in message:
“Reply YES to get exclusive offers from RedSpider.”
10. Keep It Simple and Clear
Text messages are short, so keep them direct:
- Use 140 characters or less
- Add a clear CTA (call-to-action)
Email allows more design, but should still be:
- Mobile-friendly
- Clear and neat
- Action-focused
11. Visual and Design Tips
For emails:
- Use large fonts
- Add images and buttons
- Limit to one main message
For SMS:
- Use plain text
- Shorten links
- Include brand name (e.g., “RedSpider Deal: 20% off…”)
12. Sample SMS + Email Campaign Flow
You can plan a journey that combines both:
- Day 1: Email – Welcome and introduction to your brand
- Day 2: SMS – “Thank you for joining! Here’s 10% off your next order.”
- Day 5: Email – Showcase top products
- Day 7: SMS – “Last day to use your 10% discount!”
13. Cost Savings Over Traditional Marketing
Compared to TV or print ads, text and email marketing are budget-friendly. You avoid high ad spend and print costs. Instead, you focus on targeted, result-driven communication.
- Emails cost cents per send
- SMS campaigns cost less than traditional flyers
This means better ROI for small businesses.
14. Don’t Forget to Follow Up
Sometimes people don’t act the first time. Send friendly reminders:
- “Still interested in your cart?”
- “Your discount ends soon!”
These follow-ups can double conversion rates.
15. Build Loyalty and Community
Staying in touch through both channels keeps your brand in the minds of your customers. You can:
- Share customer stories
- Ask for reviews
- Invite them to events
Loyal customers are more likely to return and refer others.
Conclusion
Text and email marketing are a powerful match. While email gives you space to inform and inspire, SMS delivers speed and urgency. Together, they make sure your message is seen, read, and acted upon.
If you want your business to grow without spending too much, start combining both. Use smart tools, respect your audience, and always offer something valuable. RedSpider can help you create this marketing connection with ease.
