Limited-time offer (LTO) templates are a special type of WhatsApp template message designed to promote time-sensitive deals, discounts, or promotions. With SMSGatewayCenter, you can easily create and send LTO templates to engage your customers and drive conversions. Here’s everything you need to know about using LTO templates effectively:
Understanding Limited-Time Offer Templates #
LTO templates are pre-approved WhatsApp messages specifically for marketing campaigns that involve time-bound offers, such as flash sales, seasonal discounts, or exclusive deals. These templates allow businesses to notify customers about urgent promotions outside the 24-hour Customer Care Window, ensuring they don’t miss out on time-sensitive opportunities.
Key Features of LTO Templates #
- Time-Sensitive Messaging: Highlight the urgency of the offer (e.g., “Offer ends in 24 hours!”).
- Call-to-Action (CTA) Buttons: Include buttons like “Shop Now” or “Claim Offer” to drive immediate action.
- Personalization: Use dynamic variables (e.g., customer name, discount code) to make the message more relevant.
- Expiration Details: Clearly state the offer’s end date or time to create a sense of urgency.
How to Create and Use LTO Templates on SMSGatewayCenter #
Access the Template Messages Section #
- Log in to your SMSGatewayCenter account at https://unify.smsgateway.center.
- Navigate to the WhatsApp Business API section, then go to the Template Messages tab.
Create an LTO Template #
- Click Add New Template.
- Select the Marketing category, as LTO templates fall under promotional messaging.
- Fill in the template details:
- Template Name: Use a descriptive name (e.g., “flash_sale_24hr”).
- Language: Choose the language for your audience (e.g., English, Hindi).
- Message Body: Write the promotional message, including the offer details, expiration, and dynamic variables if needed (e.g., “Hi {{1}}, get 20% off with code {{2}}! Offer ends on May 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM IST.”).
- Optional Elements: Add a header (e.g., “Flash Sale Alert!”), footer, or CTA buttons (e.g., “Shop Now” linking to your website).
- Submit the template for WhatsApp approval via SMSGatewayCenter. Approval typically takes 24-48 hours.
Send the LTO Template Message #
- Once approved, go to the Create section in your dashboard.
- Select the approved LTO template from the list.
- Replace dynamic variables with actual values (e.g., {{1}} with the customer’s name, {{2}} with a unique discount code).
- Choose your recipients (e.g., upload a contact list or target a specific segment).
- Send the message and monitor its performance using SMSGatewayCenter’s analytics.
Rules and Best Practices for LTO Templates #
- Highlight Urgency: Clearly mention the offer’s expiration date and time (e.g., “Offer valid until May 15, 2025, 11:59 PM IST”).
- Obtain Opt-In: Ensure customers have opted in to receive marketing messages to comply with WhatsApp’s policies.
- Use CTA Buttons: Add buttons like “Claim Offer” or “Shop Now” to encourage immediate action. WhatsApp allows up to two CTA buttons per template.
- Keep It Clear: Avoid vague language; ensure the offer details (e.g., discount percentage, conditions) are easy to understand.
- Test Before Sending: Use the Test feature in SMSGatewayCenter to preview the message and ensure links and formatting work correctly.
Why Use LTO Templates? #
- Drive Conversions: Time-sensitive offers create urgency, encouraging customers to act quickly.
- Increase Engagement: Personalized promotions with CTAs can boost click-through rates.
- Reach a Wider Audience: Send messages to customers who haven’t interacted recently, as long as they’ve opted in.
LTO templates are a powerful tool to promote time-bound offers and grow your business. For further assistance with creating or managing LTO templates, contact our support team.