21.03.2025

How to use emojis and shortcuts in SMS to capture the attention of recipients?

Modern consumers receive dozens of messages daily, so capturing their attention requires precise and effective tools.

Emojis and SMS shortcuts play a special role in marketing strategies — they help save space and make messages more personal and engaging. Let’s explore what SMS shortcuts are and how to use emojis in notifications to connect with your audience.

Emojis and shortcuts in SMS

What is an SMS shortcut and why is it an effective communication tool?

SMS shortcuts are a way to convey information using the fewest characters possible.

Given the character limit in SMS, shortcuts help you craft concise messages without losing clarity. For brands, it's a powerful way to deliver key info in a short format and give messages a dynamic tone.

How to effectively use shortcuts in SMS?

Using shortcuts effectively requires following a few simple rules:

  • Adapt your language to the target audience.
  • Use only widely recognized forms.
  • Avoid excessive abbreviation that may confuse readers.
  • Keep the style consistent throughout the message.
  • Combine shortcuts with full words for better clarity.

Most popular forms in marketing communication:

  • "USD" instead of "US dollars"
  • "no." instead of "number"
  • "Mon-Fri" instead of "Monday to Friday"
  • "hrs" instead of "hours"
  • "tel." instead of "telephone"
  • "info" instead of "information"

Common examples in marketing SMS:

Emojis and shortcuts in SMS
SMS shortcuts in marketing communication

Funny emojis in Android and iOS SMS: how do they improve message performance?

To boost user engagement, you can also personalize SMS messages with emojis — it makes the communication more lively and human.

On both Android and iOS, using funny emojis in SMS helps highlight key points and set the right tone.

Emoji in SMS — how to add them to enhance personalization?

Here are a few ideas on how to include emojis in SMS:

  • Use a maximum of 1–2 emojis per message.
  • Choose emojis that fit the context and industry.
  • Test display across different devices.
  • Use popular emojis that are easily understood.
  • Maintain a consistent style across communications.

Personalizing SMS with emojis reduces the character limit to 70. That’s why it’s crucial to balance eye-catching style with meaningful content. Funny emojis can increase open rates significantly, but only when used moderately and in the right context.

How to enhance SMS personalization with real-life examples?

Emojis and shortcuts should match the occasion, offer type, audience, and brand tone. With personalization, your SMS can feel both professional and friendly. Emojis help highlight key points, and shortcuts let you fit more into one message.

  • “Hi [Name]! 🎁 Special for you –20% on your favorites until 8 PM”
  • “[Name], thank you for your order! 🛍️ Order no.: XYZ. Delivery details will be sent via SMS”
  • “Weekend sale! ⚡ Code: WEEKEND25 active until Sunday”

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