Gary Vaynerchuk once said during a 2019 Entrepreneur interview that "the best marketing strategy ever is CARE." This philosophy transforms how businesses approach SMS marketing. While most companies blast generic promotional texts, Gary Vee's approach prioritizes authentic human connection over polished corporate messaging.
Gary Vaynerchuk once said during a 2019 Entrepreneur interview that "the best marketing strategy ever is CARE." This philosophy transforms how businesses approach SMS marketing. While most companies blast generic promotional texts, Gary Vee's approach prioritizes authentic human connection over polished corporate messaging.
According to the FCC's latest mobile communication report, Americans send over 2 trillion text messages annually, yet 76% of consumers say they receive too many irrelevant promotional texts. The solution isn't sending fewer messages—it's sending better ones.
This comprehensive guide provides 150+ SMS templates inspired by Gary Vee's authentic communication style. You'll discover message frameworks that cut through digital noise, build genuine relationships, and drive conversions without feeling pushy or manipulative.
The Gary Vee SMS Philosophy: Authenticity Over Automation
Gary Vee's SMS approach fundamentally differs from traditional text marketing by prioritizing genuine human connection over automated efficiency.
Authentic SMS marketing means delivering immediate value to recipients through raw, unfiltered messaging that builds trust rather than just driving transactions.
Here are proven Gary Vee-inspired SMS templates that embody this philosophy:
- "Hey [Name], just dropped a new video about [topic]. Thought you'd dig it since you mentioned struggling with [specific challenge]. No pitch, just value. Check it out: [link]"Copied!
- "Real talk - made a mistake with yesterday's email. Here's what actually happened and how we're fixing it: [explanation]. Thanks for keeping it 100 with us."Copied!
- "[Name], your comment about [specific topic] got me thinking. Recorded a quick voice note just for you: [audio link]. What do you think?"Copied!
- "Not selling anything today. Just wanted to say your support means everything to our small team. Seriously, thank you."Copied!
- "Saw your post about [challenge]. Been there. Here's what worked for me: [brief advice]. Hope it helps!"Copied!
Tip: Consider pairing authentic appreciation messages with premium thank-you gifts or personalized stationery to reinforce genuine gratitude.
High-Impact Business Announcement Messages
Business announcements require balancing excitement with professionalism while maintaining Gary Vee's authentic enthusiasm.
Effective business announcement texts combine genuine excitement with clear value propositions, creating anticipation while maintaining credibility through transparent communication.
Use these templates for major company updates and product launches:
- "HUGE news! After 6 months of grinding, we're finally launching [product]. First 50 customers get [specific benefit]. Not because we have to, but because you believed in us first: [link]"Copied!
- "Real milestone today - just hit [number] customers! Started in my garage 2 years ago. None of this happens without you. Celebrating with [special offer] through Friday."Copied!
- "Behind the scenes: Our team worked 14-hour days last week fixing [problem]. New update goes live tomorrow. Here's exactly what changed: [details]"Copied!
- "Plot twist: [unexpected announcement]. I know this sounds crazy, but here's why we're doing it: [reasoning]. Questions? Hit reply."Copied!
- "[Name], you've been with us since day one. Want to be the first to see [new feature] before anyone else? Private demo link: [url]"Copied!
- "Transparency moment: [challenge/setback]. Here's how we're handling it and what it means for you: [explanation]. Always keeping it real."Copied!
Customer Retention and Loyalty SMS Campaigns
Gary Vee's retention strategy focuses on emotional connection and genuine gratitude rather than transactional communications.
Authentic customer retention messages demonstrate genuine care through personalized appreciation and exclusive value delivery that makes customers feel truly valued.
These templates strengthen existing customer relationships:
- "[Name], noticed you haven't been around lately. Everything okay? No sales pitch - just checking in. Miss having you in our community."Copied!
- "Your 1-year anniversary with us is coming up! Want to share what's changed in your [business/life] since we started working together? Love hearing these stories."Copied!
- "Insider scoop: We're testing [new feature] next week. Want early access? You're one of our favorite customers, so thought you'd want first dibs."Copied!
- "[Name], your feedback about [specific topic] helped us improve [product/service]. Here's a little thank you: [exclusive offer/content]"Copied!
- "Quick question: What's the biggest challenge you're facing right now? Not trying to sell anything - just want to create content that actually helps."Copied!
- "VIP treatment incoming: [exclusive benefit] just for our loyal customers. You've earned this: [details]"Copied!
- "Remember when you told me about [personal detail]? How's that going? Been thinking about you!"Copied!
Sales and Conversion-Focused Text Messages
Gary Vee's sales approach provides value before asking, using story-driven messages that connect emotionally without manipulation.
Successful sales SMS campaigns balance direct communication with subtle persuasion by leading with value and using authentic storytelling to create emotional connections.
Convert prospects with these value-first sales templates:
- "[Name], remember struggling with [problem]? Just helped another customer solve the exact same thing. Here's what worked: [brief solution]. Want the full playbook?"Copied!
- "True story: Customer just texted me 'This changed everything.' They were dealing with [problem] just like you mentioned. 48 hours left on [offer]: [link]"Copied!
- "Not gonna lie - this deal ends tonight and I'm genuinely bummed for anyone who misses it. [Product] at [discount] won't happen again this year: [link]"Copied!
- "[Name], you asked about [topic] last month. Finally created something that addresses exactly that. Want to be among the first 25 to get it?"Copied!
- "Social proof alert: [Customer name] just got [specific result] using [product]. Thought you'd want to see this since you're working on [similar goal]."Copied!
- "Honest question: What's stopping you from [desired outcome]? If it's [common objection], I've got something that might help."Copied!
- "[Name], last chance to grab [product] before price goes up Monday. Not a fake deadline - our costs are literally increasing. Here's why: [explanation]"Copied!
Tip: Pair urgency-driven sales messages with premium productivity tools or time-management apps to help customers act quickly and efficiently.
Community Building and Engagement Messages
Community-focused SMS campaigns create two-way communication channels that transform customers into brand advocates.
Effective community building messages spark genuine conversations by asking thoughtful questions and encouraging user-generated content that fosters authentic connections.
Foster community spirit with these engagement templates:
- "Community question: What's one business lesson you learned the hard way? Sharing the best answers in tomorrow's email (with permission, of course)."Copied!
- "[Name], your success story about [achievement] would inspire so many others. Mind if I share it? Want to celebrate your win!"Copied!
- "Challenge time: Share a photo of your workspace right now. No staging allowed! Most authentic setup wins [prize]. Tag us!"Copied!
- "Real talk: What's your biggest frustration with [industry/topic]? Collecting feedback to create better content. Your voice matters."Copied!
- "Shoutout Saturday: [Customer name] just [achievement]. Drop a 🔥 if you want to celebrate with us! What wins are you celebrating?"Copied!
- "Community poll: [Question with 2-3 options]. Reply A, B, or C. Will share results tomorrow with some surprising insights."Copied!
- "[Name], loved your comment about [topic]. Mind if I feature it in next week's newsletter? You nailed something important."Copied!
Crisis Communication and Damage Control SMS
Gary Vee's crisis communication emphasizes radical transparency and immediate action over corporate deflection.
Authentic crisis communication builds trust through honest accountability messages that acknowledge problems directly while providing clear action steps for resolution.
Handle difficult situations with these transparent templates:
- "We messed up. [Specific problem] happened because [honest reason]. Here's exactly how we're fixing it: [action plan]. Sorry doesn't cut it - actions do."Copied!
- "Transparency update: [Issue] is affecting [number] customers. Current status: [progress]. ETA for full resolution: [timeline]. Will update every 2 hours."Copied!
- "[Name], you were right about [criticism]. Took us too long to listen. Here's what we're changing: [specific changes]. Thank you for keeping it real."Copied!
- "Plot twist: What looked like a disaster actually revealed [learning/opportunity]. Here's what happened and what we learned: [explanation]"Copied!
- "Accountability moment: I personally dropped the ball on [issue]. Not my team - me. Here's how I'm making it right: [specific actions]"Copied!
- "[Name], know you've been frustrated with [problem]. Just wanted to update you personally: [progress]. Your patience means everything."Copied!
Seasonal and Event-Based Marketing Messages
Effective seasonal SMS campaigns combine timely relevance with authentic voice, avoiding clichéd holiday marketing approaches.
Successful seasonal messaging stands out by integrating cultural moments naturally while maintaining brand authenticity rather than relying on generic holiday greetings.
Capitalize on seasonal opportunities with these templates:
- "Black Friday real talk: Everyone's shouting 'SALE!' today. We're just grateful you chose us this year. Here's a quiet thank you: [genuine offer]"Copied!
- "New Year, same authentic approach. While everyone's making crazy resolutions, here's one small change that actually works: [practical tip]"Copied!
- "Valentine's Day isn't just for couples. Showing love to our community with [special offer] because you make our business possible."Copied!
- "Summer's here! Time to [seasonal activity]. Here's how [product/service] makes it even better: [specific benefit]"Copied!
- "Back-to-school season hits different as an entrepreneur. Here's what I wish someone told me: [advice]. What would you add?"Copied!
- "[Event] is happening and everyone's talking about it. Here's our take: [authentic perspective]. What's your thoughts?"Copied!
- "Holiday stress is real. Instead of adding to it, here's something to make your life easier: [helpful resource/offer]"Copied!
Employee and Team Communication Templates
Internal SMS communication should reflect Gary Vee's leadership philosophy of direct feedback and genuine appreciation.
Effective team communication messages inspire and motivate through authentic recognition and transparent goal-setting rather than corporate cheerleading.
Motivate your team with these internal templates:
- "Team update: [Achievement] happened because you all executed perfectly. Seriously proud of this group. Celebration dinner Friday?"Copied!
- "[Name], your work on [project] was next level. Not just saying that - here's specifically what impressed me: [details]"Copied!
- "Real talk team meeting: [Challenge] is bigger than expected. Here's what we're doing: [plan]. Questions? Concerns? Let's discuss."Copied!
- "Monthly check-in: How are you feeling about [goal/project]? Scale 1-10 and tell me what support you need. No wrong answers."Copied!
- "[Name], noticed you've been crushing it lately. What's working well for you? Want to share insights with the team?"Copied!
- "Culture reminder: We said we'd [company value]. Today's a perfect example of living that. Here's how: [specific example]"Copied!
- "Team goal update: [Progress] toward [target]. We're [status]. What obstacles can I help remove?"Copied!
Customer Service and Support SMS Solutions
Gary Vee-inspired customer service focuses on over-delivering value and creating memorable experiences.
Exceptional customer service SMS messages exceed expectations by providing proactive support and educational content that empowers customers while ensuring satisfaction.
Deliver outstanding support with these service templates:
- "[Name], saw you had trouble with [issue]. Just created a quick video showing exactly how to fix it: [link]. Hope this helps!"Copied!
- "Heads up: [Potential issue] might affect you next week. Here's how to prevent it: [prevention steps]. Being proactive so you don't have problems."Copied!
- "Follow-up on your [issue]: How's everything working now? If anything's still not right, reply and I'll personally look into it."Copied!
- "[Name], your question about [topic] was so good, I answered it in today's FAQ. Thanks for helping improve our service!"Copied!
- "Quick check: It's been [time] since we resolved [issue]. Everything still running smoothly? Just want to make sure."Copied!
- "Pro tip: [Helpful advice] will save you time with [task]. Learned this from another customer who had the same question."Copied!
- "[Name], going above and beyond here: [extra value/service] because you've been so patient with us. You deserve it."Copied!
Tip: Complement exceptional service messages with premium customer support tools or service management software to maintain high-quality assistance.
Creating Your Own Gary Vee-Style SMS Messages
Developing authentic SMS messages requires understanding Gary Vee's core communication principles and adapting them to your brand voice.
Authentic SMS creation involves developing genuine voice, testing for authenticity, and prioritizing value delivery while maintaining compliance with messaging regulations.
Follow these frameworks to create your own authentic messages:
- Voice Development: Write like you're texting a friend who happens to be a customer. Use contractions, casual language, and personal pronouns.Copied!
- Authenticity Test: Would you send this message to someone you actually care about? If not, rewrite it.Copied!
- Value-First Approach: Every message should provide immediate value - education, entertainment, or exclusive access.Copied!
- Timing Optimization: Send messages when your audience is most likely to engage, typically Tuesday-Thursday, 10 AM-2 PM.Copied!
- Personalization Balance: Use customer data meaningfully without being creepy. Reference past interactions or preferences naturally.Copied!
- Compliance Considerations: Always include opt-out instructions and respect unsubscribe requests immediately.Copied!
Test your messages by reading them aloud. If they sound robotic or overly promotional, revise for more authentic language. Remember, the goal is building relationships, not just driving transactions.
Start with one message type per week, analyze engagement rates, and refine based on customer responses. The most successful SMS campaigns evolve through genuine customer feedback and continuous improvement.
Legal Reminder: Always comply with U.S. texting laws including TCPA requirements and include clear opt-out instructions in your SMS campaigns.
What makes Gary Vee's SMS approach different from traditional text marketing?
Gary Vee prioritizes authentic human connection over automated efficiency, focusing on delivering immediate value through genuine, unfiltered messaging that builds trust rather than just driving transactions.
How often should I send SMS messages using Gary Vee's approach?
Quality over quantity - send messages only when you have genuine value to provide, typically 2-3 times per week maximum, focusing on meaningful content rather than frequent promotional blasts.
What's the ideal length for authentic SMS messages?
Keep messages under 160 characters when possible, but prioritize clarity and authenticity over brevity. Gary Vee's approach values complete thoughts over arbitrary character limits.
How do I maintain authenticity while scaling SMS campaigns?
Use customer data to personalize messages meaningfully, reference specific interactions or preferences, and always write as if texting individual friends rather than broadcasting to masses.
What compliance considerations are important for SMS marketing?
Always obtain explicit consent before texting, include clear opt-out instructions, respect unsubscribe requests immediately, and follow TCPA regulations for commercial text messaging in the United States.