5 SMS Campaign Example Workflows for Different Business Types

Business owner John wants to get ready to take on the world of SMS.

He knows SMS has potential. He knows it’s one of the most effective ways to reach people.

He’s ready to get a campaign going.

But where to start? What strategy should he implement? What kinds of messages should he send?

Though John is fictional, maybe he represents you. The good news is that this article will give you 5 example workflows across different business types that you can use as a template and springboard for your own SMS campaigns.

No need to start from scratch—check out these ideas for campaigns and see how they might work for you!

Retail / Ecommerce SMS Workflow

Let’s say you’re an owner of a retail or ecommerce boutique store.

Here’s an example of what a campaign workflow could look like.

Pre-Launch Teaser (Day 1)

“

Something exciting is coming to Chic & Unique! Stay tuned for our big reveal next week. 👀✨

New Product Announcement (Day 8)

“

It's here! Our Fall Festival collection has just landed. Be the first to shop the hottest styles of the season: [link]

Limited Offer (Day 15)

“

Get 15% off the new Fall Festival collection for the next 48 hours. Use code FALL15 at checkout!

Social Proof (Day 22)

“

Why are people raving about the new Fall Festival collection? See what they’re saying here: [link]

Restaurant SMS Workflow

Now what if your business is a restaurant or a café instead of a boutique?

Here’s how a campaign workflow could look…

Menu Update Teaser (Day 1)

“

Exciting flavors coming to Flavor Fusion! Brand new seasonal options drop next week. Can you guess the star ingredient? 🍽️🤔

New Item Launch (Day 8)

“

The Autumn Harvest menu is here! Savor the flavors of fall with dishes featuring locally sourced pumpkin. View the menu: [link]

Weekend Special Promotion (Day 15)

“

This weekend only: Enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte for free with any Autumn Harvest entree. Reserve your table now! [link]

Customer Appreciation Event (Day 22)

“

You're invited! Join us for an exclusive tasting of our new Autumn coffee options. Limited spots available. RSVP: [link]

Service-Based Business Workflow

Your business may be more service-based, such as coaching services, hair salons, auto repair shops.

What might your campaign look like? Here’s an example from the perspective of a coaching business:

Free Guide Offer (Day 1)

“

Having your own 6-figure business is closer than you think! Download our free guide: "5 Strategies to Double Your Revenue in 6 Months” [link]

Success Story Spotlight (Day 8)

“

Sarah grew her startup by 300% in 3 months. Here’s how: [link]

Webinar Invitation (Day 15)

“

There’s a 6-step process to increasing your revenue by 300% in 3 months. Join our free webinar "Scaling Your Business: From Solopreneur to CEO" Reserve your spot now: [link]

Limited Time Offer (Day 22)

“

Last chance! 20% off our "Business Accelerator" program for the next 48 hours. Start your growth journey: [link]

B2B Workflow

If your business is more B2B, you can still use an SMS campaign workflow.

Here’s an example…

Webinar Announcement (Day 1)

“

Make sure your business is secure - Join our expert panel for a webinar on the future of cloud security. Details coming soon.

Webinar Registration (Day 8)

“

Registration is now open for 'Cloud Security 2025: Trends and Predictions.' Secure your spot (caps at 50): [link]

Limited Offer (Day 15)

“

Webinar attendees get exclusive 20% off CloudGuard software. Register now to claim your discount: [link]

Post-Webinar Follow-up (Day 22)

“

Missed the webinar? Watch the recording and access the special offer here: [link]

Nonprofit Workflow

Maybe you’re actually an owner or a marketing director for a nonprofit organization that provides parenting resources.

Here’s an example of a workflow you could use…

Update on Next Event

“

You’ve either experienced it or are nervous that it’s coming soon! Check out our upcoming workshop 'Navigating the Teenage Years' on June 15th. Expert speakers, Q&A session, and more! Register for free here: [link]

Promo on Products

“

New resource alert! 'The Positive Reinforcement Toolkit' is now available. Get practical strategies for every age group. Shop now: [link]

Reminder of Event

“

Don't forget! The 'Navigating the Teenage Years' workshop is tomorrow at 7 PM. We can't wait to see you there, either virtually or in person! Register for free here: [link]

Donation Request

“

Your support helps parents like you thrive. Donate $20 to provide a struggling family with our 'New Parent Essentials' package: [link]

Create a Workflow for Your Own Business

Whatever kind of business you’re a part of, you can use SMS—and you can create a workflow that works for you.

Interested in taking the first step and trying it out for yourself? Get a free trial account here.