Send an Automatic Text from a Phone Menu Option

Let callers request information by text

An IVR option can request an automatic SMS with your address, booking link or other useful information. The number must be able to send messages, and the caller must use a number that can receive SMS. Delivery is not guaranteed or necessarily immediate.

1. Write the message for the number

1. Open Settings → Phone Numbers and click Settings for the number callers dial.
2. Select Text Messages (SMS).
3. Find Phone Menu (IVR) — Text message.
4. Enter the text in SMS Text for IVR Menu Option and click Save.

Start with your business name, say what the caller requested and include a clear link if needed. Example: “[Business]: Here is the booking page you requested: [your booking URL].”

2. Connect a menu key to the SMS action

1. Return to Phone Numbers and open Call Flow for the same number.
2. Open Phone Menu (IVR) and create or edit the intended menu.
3. Use Add Option, or select an existing option, and enter the key.
4. Open its destination picker. Search for SMS or find IVR Messaging.
5. Select IVR Menu: Send Automated SMS and save the menu.

The SMS action is available in the destination picker when creating or editing a menu. If it is missing in your account, ask your administrator or support to check availability.

3. Announce the key and check the active route

Update the greeting so callers know what to press: “Press 4 and we will text you our booking link.” Confirm that this menu is reached by the number’s incoming action, directly or through Business Hours. Keep another option for callers who need a person or cannot receive a text.

4. Test from an SMS-capable mobile phone

1. Call the business number and press the configured key.
2. Confirm that the requested text arrives and its links open correctly.
3. Listen to what happens to the call after the selection; do not promise a transfer unless you have configured and tested it.
4. If no text arrives, check the number’s saved message, menu destination and messaging availability, then review the message status with your administrator.

Common questions

Can each key send a different message? This screen has one IVR message field per number. Options using this action use that configured text; separate keys do not provide separate message bodies here.

Does it work for every caller? No. A landline, hidden/unavailable caller number or delivery failure can prevent receipt. Keep a spoken or human alternative.

What does it cost? Usage and charges depend on your messaging service and account terms. Check those terms rather than assuming the action is free.

Related guides

• How to Create an IVR / Auto Attendant
• How to Upload or Create Audio Recordings (Greetings)

Need help?

Call/Text/WhatsApp: (833) 966-4835
Email: info@zonitel.com