SMS has a 98% open rate. Email has 21%. That's not a typo. When your customer gets a text from you, they read it — almost always, almost immediately. For tradespeople, this makes SMS the single most effective communication channel available.
Here are the six messages that generate the most return.
"Hi [Name], your booking with [Business] is confirmed for [Date] at [Time]. We'll see you at [Address]. Any questions, reply here. Thanks! [Name]"
Fires instantly when a customer books online. Reduces anxiety, reduces calls to check the booking, reduces no-shows. This one message alone reduces no-shows by 40%.
"Hi, it's [Name] from [Business] — sorry I missed your call, I'm probably on a job. You can book a time here: [link]. I'll confirm within the hour."
Fires within 30 seconds of any missed call. This is the highest-ROI automation in any tradesperson's toolkit — it captures leads that would otherwise be lost to a competitor.
"Just a reminder — [Business] is booked for tomorrow, [Date] at [Time]. See you then! If anything changes, reply here."
Fires automatically the day before every job. Reduces no-shows, gives customers an easy way to reschedule, and keeps you front of mind so they don't forget.
"Hi [Name], great working with you today! If you've got 2 minutes, a Google review would mean the world: [direct link]. Thanks so much! [Name]"
Fires 2 hours after job completion. This is the single best way to build your Google rating — automated, consistent, perfect timing. Converts at 35–40%.
"Hi [Name], just following up on the quote I sent on [Date]. Happy to answer any questions or adjust anything — what works best for you?"
Most tradespeople send a quote and never follow up. This message, sent 48 hours later if no response, converts 20–30% of silent quotes into booked jobs.
"Hi [Name], it's [Business]. We're seeing a lot of [heating/guttering/garden] work this time of year — if you need anything sorted before [winter/summer], we can usually fit you in within a week. Worth a chat?"
Sent to past customers in relevant seasons. Costs nothing, generates 5–15% response rate, brings back customers who'd otherwise go elsewhere.
Every TWD plan includes all 6 automated SMS types — unlimited sends, no per-message fees, from £99/month.
Book a Free Call →