How to Write a Brilliant Introduction Text Message

Introducing yourself or your business by text message is fairly tricky. You only have a tiny amount of space in which to craft your message (160 characters, to be precise – which equates to very few words!).

There's a definite skill to writing a short yet memorable introduction while also laying the foundations for a two-way conversation. This article shares some valuable tips and best practices for introducing yourself via text messaging.

What is an introduction text?

An introduction text is simply the very first text message you send to someone you want to get acquainted with, such as a customer, colleague, supplier or networking connection.

No matter who you're contacting for the first time, it's essential to make a positive and memorable introduction – doing so helps pave the way for great business opportunities and professional relationships.

If you want to increase your chances of a response, it makes sense to use SMS to introduce yourself compared to email. Text response rates are as high as 45%, whereas email response rates can be as low as 6%.

Related: 28 Important (and Fascinating) Facts About Texting

The basic structure of an introduction text

So what exactly should you include, and what's ok to leave out when introducing yourself via text? Here's how to structure your message...

• Start with a greeting – just like you would when you introduce yourself in person, say 'Hello'. Or, more specifically, say 'Hi' to reduce character count!

• Explain who you are – include your name and business. You can do this via a signature at the end of your text or weave it into the content at the beginning.

• Say what you want – whether you're after referrals, wish to schedule a meeting or want to help a customer with an enquiry, get straight to the point and explain the reason for your text as succinctly as possible.

• Include a call-to-action – tell the recipient what you want them to do (for example, book a slot in your calendar or reply with an answer to your question). Make it easy for them by including a URL to visit or a phone number to call.

Here are a few examples of a well structured introductory text:

Hi Sue, nice to meet you at the networking group yesterday. Can we discuss swapping referrals? Here’s my calendar: [URL] Tim Watson, Greenfields Accountants.

Hi Tomas, Alison from Marketing Whizz here. We're looking for a freelance copywriter. If available, please phone me on [NUMBER] for details.

Hi Peter, further to your email, I'm pleased to help you upgrade. Before we begin, click here to enter your support PIN for security. [URL] Ali, SmartTechCo.

Tips and tricks for introductory text messaging

There are a few clever techniques to use when crafting your text message to ensure you provide a great introduction.

• Use friendly language – even though this is business texting, there's no need to be overly formal in your language. You don't want it to sound too stuffy. Text communication is generally informal – we mostly text with friends and family, right? So keep the tone conversational.

• Personalise your message – address the recipient by name to add impact and familiarity.

• Consider Verified SMS – if you're text messaging existing or prospective customers, use Verified SMS (branded messages) to help you build trust and enhance your content.

• Use automation to save time and resources – in the case of SMS marketing, you may be able to automate introductory (welcome) texts so that they're triggered and sent whenever a new subscriber opts in to receive them.

Note: with marketing text messages, recipients must first subscribe and give permission for you to send them. Additionally, you must always provide details of how to opt out of future marketing messages within your message content.

Introduction text templates

Let's look at some specific scenarios where you might want to send an introduction text. Feel free to tweak these templates and use them for your business.

SMS marketing

For marketing text messages, your first one should acknowledge that the recipient has subscribed and act as a reminder that they can unsubscribe at any time. You may also want to collect a double opt-in via this introduction text.

Template:

Hi [Name], thanks for opting in to text marketing from [Business Name]. Please reply Y to confirm. You can unsubscribe at any time by texting STOP to [Shortcode].

Networking

Sending a follow-up text after making a new networking connection helps open the door for new business opportunities.

Template:

Hi [Name], great to meet you at [Event] on [Date]. Let's talk about ways to help our respective businesses. Let me know a good time to call? [Your Name], [Business Name].

Welcome new customers

Whenever you get a new customer, you can use an introduction text to confirm the product purchased and communicate further information.

Template:

Welcome to [Company]. We're delighted to have you on board. Here are all your documents: [URL]. If you need assistance at any time, call [Number].

Converting sales leads

Whether you're selling a product or service, you can use a data capture form on your website to collect interested leads and follow up with an introduction that helps convert them into customers.

Template:

Hi [Name] thanks for your website enquiry. Please call us on [Number] so we can arrange for you to speak to one of our advisors. [Your Name], [Business Name].

New employee onboarding

Show new employees you value them by texting an onboarding text with helpful information, e.g. link to the firm's newsletter or the intranet.

Template:

Welcome [Name]! Hope you're settling in well. Browse the intranet for the latest company news and upcoming internal events. [URL]. [Your Name], HR Department.

In conclusion...

For a great introduction by text message, include the following elements: a greeting, a clear and concise reason for texting, a call-to-action, and of course, your contact details.

Veer towards a friendly and conversational tone rather than official and formal. Don't forget to personalise your text message with the recipient's name to make an impression and add familiarity. And if you're sending SMS marketing welcome messages, consider using Verified SMS to communicate brand awareness and increase trust.

To get started, use our text message templates to introduce yourself or your business. Why not try Messente's intuitive SMS platform to test your introduction message and see how it looks from a recipient's perspective. Sign up for a free Messente account today.