SMS opt-in: 8 best practices to grow your database

SMS marketing offers one crucial advantage: the high open rate. With approximately 98% of text messages being read , this platform positions itself as an effective tool to reach customers in a direct and timely manner.

Its brevity and users’ habit of checking their messages in real time contribute to this high rate of interaction. Also, the fact that most people carry their phones with them at all times ensures that messages are received and responded to almost immediately.

For businesses looking for an effective way to reach their customers with reminders, limited-time offers, and transaction confirmations, SMS marketing is emerging as an attractive and low-cost option. The key lies in building a strong contact list through opt-in campaigns.

By implementing strategies to encourage text message subscriptions , businesses can capitalize on this efficient communication channel to effectively and directly achieve a variety of marketing goals.

What is an opt-in SMS?

SMS opt-in is an invitation to potential subscribers or existing customers to join your text message list and receive marketing messages, alerts and reminders from your business via text message.

There are three types of SMS opt-in procedures: single-step, double-step, and soft opt-in. In the first, the consumer joins your SMS list and is added instantly without confirmation.

In the second, the consumer requests to join your SMS list and receives a confirmation text message allowing them to verify their desire to join .

SMS opt-in is a crucial practice in mobile marketing , as it ensures that recipients actually want to receive your messages and that the phone numbers provided are valid.

The difference between a single opt-in and a double opt-in lies in the level of confirmation required from the user. While a single opt-in is more direct and faster , a double opt-in provides an additional layer of security by confirming the authenticity of the phone number and the user’s intention to receive the messages.

Soft opt-in, on the other hand, capitalizes on the previously established relationship with existing customers by offering them the option to join your SMS list . Not only does this expand your communication channels with them, but it also leverages their familiarity with your brand to increase the likelihood that they will opt in to receive text messages.

SMS opt-in best practices

Requesting opt-in to receive text messages via email is an effective strategy  list of finland whatsapp phone numbers for expanding your SMS marketing list. However, the decision to provide a phone number involves greater privacy for users . To increase opt-in rates, it is critical to consider the sensitivity associated with disclosing personal information.

Offer an incentive

The most effective strategy to encourage people to join your SMS list is to offer them  retail chatbots: 8 best practices to increase your company’s roi immediate benefits, such as  betting data special discounts, free gifts or exclusive coupons.

Additionally, to reduce churn and keep subscribers engaged over the long term, it’s important to implement ongoing incentives such as annual promotions, rewards point accumulation bonuses, and other recurring benefits.

By providing tangible incentives and attractive benefits on a consistent basis , you can encourage greater engagement from subscribers and maintain an active and engaged SMS database over time.

Create an omnichannel approach

Omnichannel promotion is key in today’s marketing strategy. Leveraging the reach of different platforms maximizes the exposure of the SMS list. From social media to physical material in stores, every touchpoint is an opportunity to encourage subscription.

Including opt-in offers in emails, social media posts, print and TV ads, as well as on your website itself ensures comprehensive coverage.

These tactics not only increase visibility, but also capitalize on key moments of customer interaction, such as the purchase process or navigation on the home page.

Strategically integrating your SMS list across multiple channels not only amplifies your reach, but also capitalizes on opportune moments of customer engagement . From online interaction to in-store experiences, every touchpoint represents an opportunity to foster connection via SMS.

By offering this option at a variety of points, from social media to the online checkout process, you maximize subscriber acquisition and strengthen your relationship with your existing customer base.

This cohesive approach ensures a consistent and effective presence across all touchpoints, thereby promoting greater customer engagement and loyalty.