Playbook
Why the first text should never have a link
The short version
A first message with a link looks like spam to filters and to people. A first message with one honest question gets answered. Once the customer writes back, a link is welcome, and on most platforms it’s also allowed.
What customers see
Hi! 20% off everything today only → bit.ly/
hey Sam, it's Mia, Venom Scents' text assistant. saw the 3-pack in your cart. anything i can help with?
Earn the reply first
Ask about the thing they were doing: the cart, the order, the delivery. One question, two short sentences at most, and say who’s texting. The assistant names itself and the brand in the first line.
38% of customers reply to a question-first opener. Fewer than 1% opt out.
Then send the link
When they reply, send the code or checkout link straight away, and say what it does: “this link applies it, your cart shows the exact total”. Start at 10%. Go to your cap once, only if they still hesitate.