Referral SMS Messaging Templates and Examples

Referral SMS messaging is the practice of sending text messages to existing customers. The purpose is to encourage them to refer new customers to a brand, product, or service. These messages typically include a referral link, code, or instructions on how the recipient can share the offer with others. The referring customer may receive rewards such as discounts, cashback, loyalty points, or freebies when their referral converts into a paying customer.

Why Use SMS for Referral Campaigns?

• Instant visibility: SMS messages are typically read within minutes.
• High engagement: SMS has a click-through rate of around 19%, compared to 4% for email.
• Viral potential: A well-crafted message can be forwarded easily.
• Cost-effective: SMS marketing campaigns are cheaper than paid advertising channels.
• Personal: Texting creates a sense of urgency and importance.

Elements of a Strong Referral SMS Message

Include the following on your template while making an effective referral message:

1. Personalization: Use the customer’s name, if possible.
2. Clear incentive: State what they get for referring.
3. Simple instructions: How they can refer and what others get.
4. Referral link/code: A unique code or URL to track conversions.
5. Urgency: Use limited-time language to drive action.
6. Compliance: Include opt-out language (“Reply STOP to opt-out”).

Below are categorized referral SMS templates you can adapt for your own campaigns.

1. General Referral Program

Hey [Name], refer a friend to [Brand Name] and get $10 when they make their first purchase. They get $10 too! Your link: [Referral Link]. Share the love!

2. Limited-Time Offer

Quick! Get $20 for every friend you refer to [Brand]! They get 20% off too. Offer ends soon. Share your link now: [Referral Link]

3. Product-Based Incentive

Love your [Product Name]? Tell a friend and you’ll both get a free [Sample/Product/Month] when they order! Use your code: [Referral Code]

4. Cashback or Gift Cards

Want a $25 Amazon card? Refer a friend to [Service Name]. Once they sign up, it’s yours! Here’s your code: [Code]

5. Tiered Referral Incentives

Stack your rewards! Refer 1 friend = $10, 3 friends = $40, 5 friends = $100! Track your progress: [Referral Portal Link]

6. Post-Purchase Referral Prompt

Thanks for your recent purchase, [Name]! Want $15 off your next order? Refer a friend using your link: [Referral Link]

7. Event-Based Referral

Heading to [Event Name]? Invite a friend! Refer someone and get VIP access or a free drink. Use code: [Referral Code]

8. Service-Based Referral

Love [Service Name]? Get 1 month FREE when your friend signs up using your link: [Referral Link]. They get 10% off!

9. B2B Referral Example

Know a business that needs [Your Service]? Refer them and earn a $100 credit after their first month. Submit here: [Referral Form Link]

10. Referral Thank You SMS

Thanks for referring [Friend's Name]! They just signed up. Your $20 credit has been added to your account. Keep sharing: [Link]

***You should be careful in the Referral SMS Templates section when it comes to emoticons. As soon as you insert an emoji, the SMS is automatically sent in Unicode format (UTF-16), so the maximum message length drops from 160 to 70 characters per SMS. If the message exceeds 70 characters, it will be split into multiple SMS. Therefore, if you intend to use emojis - make sure you fit into these additional limitations!

1. Use Short Links: Always use trackable, shortened URLs to monitor performance.
2. Personalize When Possible: Use the recipient’s name and tailor the message if you can.
3. Be Transparent: Explain how the referral process works and what both parties get.
4. Create Urgency: Use time-sensitive offers to encourage quicker action.
5. Follow SMS Compliance: Ensure your messages include an opt-out option and comply with regional laws like TCPA or GDPR.
6. Test and Optimize: A/B test subject lines, incentives, and timing to see what converts best.

Benefits of Referral SMS Messaging

• Increased conversions: People trust recommendations they receive in their SMS inbox from friends more than ads.
• Cost-efficient customer acquisition: Lower CPA than paid ads.
• Improved customer loyalty: Referrers are more likely to stay engaged.
• Scalable: Easy to automate via SMS marketing platforms.

There are quite a few platforms out there, but only a couple of good ones, where we stand at the very top. We are TopMessage, and our goal is to drive your SMS campaign toward utter success. Contact us at your earliest convenience and let us optimize, automate, and guide your ideas in the right direction.

Measuring Success

Track your campaign using the following KPIs:

• Click-through rate (CTR): Percentage of people clicking your referral link.
• Referral conversion rate: How many people signed up or purchased.
• Cost per acquisition (CPA): Total spend divided by new customers acquired.
• Redemption rate: Number of rewards claimed by referrers.
• Viral coefficient: Average number of new users per referring user.
  
  

Referral SMS messaging is a powerful, personal, and scalable way to acquire new customers while rewarding your existing ones. With the right strategy and messaging, businesses can build referral programs that grow organically through trusted word-of-mouth. The referral SMS templates provided offer a starting point. But the real key lies in understanding your audience, providing valuable incentives, and delivering timely, clear communication. When done right, referral SMS campaigns can fuel your growth engine and keep your loyal customers engaged and appreciated.