Why is SMS better than email for follow-up?

SMS has a 98% open rate compared to email's 20%. People read texts within minutes, making it the best channel for fast communication and booking appointments.

How often should I text a new lead?

Send an immediate text upon opt-in, followed by a check-in on day 2, day 3, and a final attempt on day 5. Do not spam them multiple times a day.

What should my first text message say?

Keep it conversational: 'Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] with [Company]. I saw you requested a quote for a garage floor. Do you have a few minutes to chat today?'

Can I automate my SMS follow-up?

Yes, using a CRM designed for contractors, you can build automated workflows that send these texts on a schedule until the lead replies.

AI & Automation

Best SMS Follow-Up Strategy for Epoxy Flooring Leads

By Vanguard Systems•8 min read

If you are relying on phone calls and emails to follow up with epoxy leads, you are leaving money on the table. Homeowners don't answer unknown numbers, and emails go to spam. The secret to booking more estimates is a solid SMS follow-up strategy.

1. Why SMS Wins Over Email and Calls

Text messages have a 98% open rate. When a homeowner gets a text, they look at it. They might ignore a call from a number they don't recognize, but a quick text establishing who you are bridges that gap and makes them comfortable answering your call.

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2. The 5-Minute Auto-Text

The most important text you will ever send is the one that goes out within 5 minutes of them submitting a form. It should say: "Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Company]. Thanks for requesting a quote for your garage. Are you free for a quick call today?"

3. The 5-Day SMS Sequence

If they don't reply on day 1, do not give up. Send a text on Day 2 asking if they saw your previous message. On Day 3, send a before-and-after photo of a recent job to build trust. On Day 5, send a "break-up" text: "Hi [Name], I haven't heard back, so I'll assume you went another direction. Let me know if you still need help!" This often triggers a response.

4. Keeping Your Texts Conversational

Do not sound like a corporate robot. Use their first name. Keep it short. Do not include links in the first text, as carriers might flag it as spam. Ask open-ended questions to encourage a reply.

5. Automating the Process with CRM

You cannot do this manually while running a business. You need a CRM system that automatically triggers this sequence as soon as a lead enters the pipeline, and instantly stops the sequence the moment the lead replies.

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