Short answer: Text back within a minute, from your business, with three things: who you are, a quick sorry, and one easy next step (describe the job, book a time, or order). Keep it under 300 characters, add a different message for after hours, and include "Reply STOP to opt out" in the first text.
What makes a good missed-call text?
- It comes fast: within a minute, while they still have their phone in hand.
- It says who you are: your business name first, so it doesn’t look like spam.
- It asks for one thing: what they need, a time to book, or a link to order.
- It sounds like you: the same way you’d talk on the phone.
Which messages work for trades and home services?
- “Hi, it’s Sunrise Plumbing. Sorry we missed your call! What’s going on, and what’s the address?”
- “Hi, this is Summit Painting. We’re on a job right now. Send us a photo of the project and we’ll get you a quote today.”
- “Thanks for calling Rivera Electric. Is this an emergency? Reply YES and we’ll call right back. Otherwise, tell us what you need.”
Which messages work for salons, studios and clinics?
- “Hi, it’s Glow Lash Studio! We’re with a client. Book any open time here: [booking link]”
- “Sorry we missed you at Fade Room! Want a cut this week? Pick a time here: [booking link]”
- “Hi, this is Northside Physio. We’ll call you back within the hour. If it’s about an appointment, you can also book here: [booking link]”
Which messages work for restaurants, cafés and bakeries?
- “Hi from Bloom Bakery! We’re in the middle of a rush. Order ahead here and skip the line: [order link]”
- “Thanks for calling Casa Verde! Want to reserve a table or order for pickup? Reply TABLE or ORDER.”
What should you send after hours?
- “Thanks for calling Sunrise Plumbing. We’re closed for the night and open at 7am. Tell us what you need and we’ll reply first thing.”
- “You’ve reached Glow Lash Studio after hours. Book any open time here, day or night: [booking link]”
The businesses above are examples. Swap in your own name, links and hours.
What rules keep your texts from being blocked?
- Register for business texting. US phone carriers require businesses to register before sending automated texts. Texts sent before approval can be blocked without warning.
- Offer a way out. Include “Reply STOP to opt out” in the first text, and honour it the same day.
- Don’t text spam callers. Turn the reply off for numbers marked as spam.
- Answer the replies. Customers who text back expect a fast answer, so keep notifications on.
Questions
How fast should I text back a missed call?
Within a minute. Most people call the next business on the list if they don’t hear back quickly.
Do I need a new phone number for missed-call text back?
Usually not. Your own number can often be set up to send texts, or missed calls forward to a texting number.
Is missed-call text back legal?
Yes, when you register for business texting with the carriers, identify your business and include a way to opt out.
Want it done for you? We write yours in your voice and handle the carrier registration.
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