A good story grabs us all. And in a world where attention is a highly competitive commodity, successful storytelling leads to success. As we all know, the spice is in the brevity. We show you how to tell good stories with business messaging – and inspire customers via SMS.
In a world where attention is scarce and information is overwhelming, storytelling via SMS opens up a new dimension of marketing. With just a few characters, you can create excitement and emotion with business messaging – and a connection that lasts longer than your smartphone battery.
Telling instead of selling
If you tell a good story, you captivate your audience. Successful brand stories are not aimed at selling something. Instead, they evoke emotions and create deeper connections with their customers. Prominent brands such as LEGO, Apple or Nike use the power of storytelling to inspire their target group – and thus indirectly turn them into loyal (and willing to pay) customers. LEGO does this with films, series and games. Apple does it with design and visual storytelling at the highest level. And Nike? “Just do it” – three simple words that tell a different story for each and every one of us.
What makes a good story
We humans love stories. We have been telling each other myths and fairy tales, legends and legends for thousands of years. These stories usually follow a common structure, the so-called “hero’s journey”. The traditional hero’s journey according to myth researcher Joseph Campbell is a story in three acts: Departure, trial and return. A person sets off on an adventure – often hesitantly and reluctantly. On his journey into the unknown, he (or she) encounters problems; powers are tested, strengths tried out. If they successfully pass these tests – usually under the guidance of a mentor – they return as a hero (or heroine), changed and purified by their experiences.
Stories by SMS
Don’t worry. You don’t have to write a second odyssey to have a successful hero’s journey – you can even do it by text message. With these tips, you can master the art of storytelling even in the smallest of spaces:
- A powerful start
Start your story with a bang. A captivating first sentence immediately arouses interest and draws the reader into the story. “Moonlit night. A knock at the door. The adventure begins.”
- Ask questions
Leave room for interpretation. The reader’s imagination is a powerful tool – and your aim is to arouse curiosity. “A mysterious message. Who could it be from?”
- Arouse emotions
Text messages are short, but that doesn’t mean they have to be devoid of emotion. Use specific words to convey feelings. “Heart pounding. The decision that will change everything.”
- Bring characters to life
Always show the people behind the names. Outline their personality and goals in just a few words. “Even Anna, the inventive one, reaches her limits.”
SMS storytelling is like magic in a small space. It requires precision, creativity and the skill to create a world in just a few words. So, what are you waiting for? Your next story could already be in your pocket, ready to be told via SMS.
Bring magic to your business messaging
Magic and business – how do you bring them together? Whether it’s a dental practice or a travel agency, there are stories in every business. Here are a few ideas on how to pack them into a text message:
Travel agency
“Found a magical book yesterday. Thought of the beach – suddenly sand under my feet. Amazing!”
Dentist
“Little moments of happiness in our practice: Dr Müller enchanted a little patient with her first tooth fairy visit. Healthy teeth, happy children! Appointments under #KeineAngstVormZahnarzt”
Event manager
“Lights, music, the whole city is talking about our concert. Planning was worth it. Will you be there next time? #EventHighlight”
Restaurant
“The new secret recipe tastes good! Every Friday evening – be there! #flavourexplosion”
Whatever you’re selling: Packaged as a story, it is more fun, inspires and arouses emotions – and ensures that your customers will love you in the long term.
You too can bring magic to your business messaging. We are happy to help you.
Get in touch with us!
Florian
Florian is Senior Marketing Manager and responsible for promoting the eCall brand. In this blog, he writes about news and interesting facts about business messaging.
Picture credits Article image: www.istockphoto.com/de/portfolio/iamnoonmai
