Short code texting is becoming a popular marketing channel for businesses aiming to strengthen their customer relationships. Short codes are phone numbers with 5 or 6 digits used to send SMS or MMS messages. They make it easy to communicate quickly and directly with customers with personalized messages. Proper execution is crucial for effective short code texting. This guide provides tips for successful short code texting campaigns, including dos and don’ts, to engage customers and build loyalty:
Table of Contents
The Dos of Short Code Texting
1. Provide Clear and Concise Opt-In Instructions
Before a customer can receive messages from your business, they must opt-in. Customers are more likely to opt-in if they understand the value of what you’re offering. Make sure your customer understands exactly how to subscribe to your texting program. Provide clear instructions on how to opt-in, what messages they can expect to receive, and how to opt-out if they change their minds.
2. Give Subscribers the Option To Opt-Out at Any Time
Customers should easily opt-out of receiving messages from your business if they want to. Make sure to include an opt-out option in every message you send and clear and easy-to-follow unsubscribe instructions.
3. Send Relevant and Valuable Content to Subscribers
Customers will only remain interested in your messages if they contain valuable and relevant information. Ensure that each message you send is relevant to your customer’s interests or needs and provides them the value they can’t get anywhere else. A professional short code SMS provider will help you by providing detailed analytics of your short code campaign. Besides, they can also help you create engaging messages that will resonate with customers.
4. Limit the Number of Messages Sent per Week
While it is vital to remain top-of-mind with your customers, it is also crucial not to overload them with messages not to appear spammy or intrusive. Be sure to set a weekly sending limit and stick to it.
5. Include a Clear Call-to-Action in Each Message
Every message you send should contain a clear and compelling call-to-action that motivates your customer to act. Whether you purchase, visit your website, or take other meaningful action, your CTA should be simple, easy-to-follow, and drive engagement with your brand.
The Don’ts of Short Code Texting
1. Don’t Send Unsolicited Messages to Subscribers
Never send messages to customers who have not explicitly opted-in to receive them. Unsolicited messages are not only annoying but can also lead to legal repercussions.
2. Don’t Use Slang or Abbreviations That May Be Misunderstood
Every message you send should be easy-to-understand and free of confusing jargon, slang, and abbreviations. Use proper grammar and avoid using acronyms or abbreviations that may be misunderstood.
3. Don’t Send Messages Too Early or Too Late in the Day
Timing is everything when it comes to short code texting. Be sure to send messages at times that are most convenient and least intrusive to your customers. It’s best not to send messages during early mornings or late nights.
4. Don’t Overwhelm Subscribers With Excessive Messages
While staying top-of-mind with your customers is important, bombarding them with numerous messages can have the opposite effect. Find the right balance, and monitor opt-out rates to ensure you’re not overwhelming your customer base.
Best Practices for Short Code Texting
Personalize Messages To Increase Engagement
Use data you have on your customers to personalize each message. It could include using their name, location, previous purchases, and other information that can make the message more relevant and compelling.
Use a Clear and Recognizable Sender Name
Use a clear and concise sender name that is easily recognizable to your customers. It’ll help build trust and increase open rates for your messages.
Test Messages Before Sending To Ensure Optimal Deliverability
Test every message you send before going live to ensure it is delivered correctly and appears as expected. By testing your messages, you can identify any issues impacting deliverability and adjust your approach accordingly.
Comply With All Relevant Regulations and Guidelines
Short code texting is subject to numerous regulations and guidelines, including the TCPA, which requires businesses to obtain written consent from customers before sending them automated text messages. Ensure you understand and comply with all relevant regulations to avoid legal issues.
When done correctly, short code texting can be incredibly powerful for building customer relationships and driving business success. It is important to remember that short code texting is subject to regulations and guidelines that you must follow. Businesses must obtain written consent from customers before sending automated text messages and ensure they comply with all relevant regulations.
