Getting Better Results with SMS Messaging

Using mobile text delivery instead of email can significantly boost engagement with employees, students, or reps. However, mobile carriers have strict filtering processes that can block or flag messages as spam. Here are some best practices to improve deliverability and ensure your messages reach your audience.

Do Mobile Carriers Filter SMS Messages?

Yes, they do! Mobile carriers closely monitor messages and use automated systems to detect and block messages they suspect are spam. While their exact filtering methods are not public, we’ve gathered some key insights to help your messages get through.

How to Avoid SMS Messages Being Flagged as Spam

There’s no guaranteed way to bypass carrier filters, but following these guidelines will improve your chances:

• Make it conversational – Messages that sound overly promotional or robotic are more likely to be blocked. Keeping a natural, conversational tone helps.

• Avoid sending links too early – Including a link in the first or second message to a new contact can increase the chances of being flagged. Instead, ask recipients to reply before sending a link (e.g., to a Calendly invite, event sign-up, or free resource).

• Limit excessive punctuation – Messages filled with exclamation points can trigger spam filters. Use them sparingly.

• Be mindful of formatting – Excessive capitalization, aggressive language, or too much punctuation can make your message look suspicious.

Questions to Ask Before Sending

Before hitting send, review your message.

• Is it clear who the message is from? – If a recipient doesn’t recognize the sender, they may report it as spam.

• Does it provide an opt-out option? – Recipients should always have a way to unsubscribe.

• Is the message concise and professional? – Avoid unnecessary capitalization, punctuation, or language that could be misinterpreted as aggressive.