You may be considering text message marketing because you’ve heard SMS messages have a 98% open rate. Unfortunately, that statistic doesn’t tell the full truth about how SMS marketing campaigns work. Text message marketing isn’t a quick shortcut to big results. Like everything else, it takes work.
Building an SMS marketing list isn’t just about getting people to enter their phone numbers into a form. It’s about building trust through clear Australia Phone Number Data communication and then giving your customers a reason to subscribe. Follow these steps to show your customers why sharing their cell phone number is a good deal for them, not just you.
Check your TCPA compliance
The which applies to marketing calls and text messages, makes it illegal to contact consumers without explicit consent. If you break the law, your company could face serious fines—up to $500 per violation. Get affirmative consent and keep records of it to avoid incurring such penalties.
The best way to do this is via a double opt-in process. After someone adds their number for SMS marketing, send a text with a code they must use to receive further communications. Make sure you tell them they might incur text messaging fees from their carrier before they finalize their subscription.
Tell subscribers what to expect
Avoid customer annoyance (and a high unsubscribe rate) by clearly communicating what someone is signing up for before asking for their phone number. Covering the “what” of your campaign means telling a customer how often you’ll text and what you’ll send, be it notifications or exclusive coupons. After setting those expectations, you’ll need to stick to them.
Consumers these days are also savvier about privacy. They’ll expect plain language explaining how you’ll use their phone number—and promising you Calling List won’t sell it. You should also tell them how they can get off your SMS subscriber list. Make sure it’s clear they can unsubscribe at any time without having to jump through hoops.
It can be difficult to share all that information in every situation. Set up a page people can visit to learn the details of your texting program. The Frye Company links to from the page it uses to capture mobile phone numbers. Another option is to send the link to customers’ phones as part of the opt-in message, so they’ll know all the terms before joining.
