SMS marketing has become one of the most effective tools for engaging with customers. Its direct and personal nature allows businesses to connect with clients in real-time, fostering higher engagement rates and stronger relationships. However, before you can send any text messages, you need to grow your SMS subscriber list—legally and effectively.
This blog will guide you through 10 actionable strategies to build and expand your SMS subscriber base, along with best practices for retaining these subscribers to maximize your marketing ROI.
Table of contents
Why You Need an Expanding SMS Subscriber List
Building a robust SMS marketing list is essential for several reasons:
Direct communication: Reach customers instantly, ensuring your messages are read quickly.
Higher engagement: SMS open rates far surpass those of emails—about 98% compared to 20%.
Cost-effectiveness: SMS marketing is more affordable than many other marketing channels, offering better ROI.
But remember, compliance is key—customers must give explicit permission (opt-in) before you can send them promotional messages.
Benefits of Opting for a Legal SMS Subscriber Growth Strategy
Growing your SMS list the right way ensures:
Increased customer trust: Opt-in subscribers are more likely to engage.
Lower unsubscribe rates: By providing value, you’ll retain more customers.
Compliance with regulations: Avoid fines and legal issues associated with unsolicited messages
10 Effective Ways to Grow Your SMS Subscriber List
1. Launch a Text-to-Join Campaign
One of the simplest ways to build your SMS list is by starting a text-to-join campaign. Here's how it works:
Create an SMS keyword relevant to your business (e.g., “JOINSALE”).
Promote this keyword across various channels like social media, emails, and in-store signage.
Ask customers to text that keyword to your business number or shortcode.
For example, a cafe might promote: “Text ‘COFFEEDEAL’ to 12345 for 20% off your next order!”
After customers opt in, they’ll receive an automatic confirmation message, which ensures compliance and immediate engagement.
2. Offer Irresistible Incentives
People love a good deal. Offering exclusive incentives in exchange for joining your SMS list can drive significant growth. Here are some ideas:
Discounts: Offer a percentage off their next purchase.
BOGO Deals: “Buy one, get one free” deals work wonders for retail and restaurants.
Exclusive Access: Early access to sales or new products can entice loyal customers to opt in.
For example, if you run a car wash, you could offer: “Join our SMS list and get 50% off your next wash!”
3. Ask for Numbers at Checkout
Capitalize on in-store or online checkouts by asking customers to opt into your SMS list. Offer them something valuable in return, like future discounts or loyalty points.
For instance, a salon might ask: “Would you like to receive 10% off your next appointment by subscribing to our SMS updates?”
4. Leverage Website Traffic for Opt-Ins
Turn your website visitors into SMS subscribers by implementing opt-in forms, pop-ups, or banners that highlight incentives. Just make sure these prompts are well-timed and non-intrusive to avoid driving away traffic.
Examples of opt-in strategies include:
Exit-intent pop-ups offering a discount for SMS sign-ups.
Embedding an SMS opt-in form on high-traffic pages like product landing pages.
5. Convert Email Subscribers to SMS
If you have a list of email subscribers, invite them to join your SMS list as well. SMS marketing typically achieves higher engagement rates than email, so converting existing subscribers can boost the effectiveness of your campaigns.
Send an email like this: “Want to receive exclusive deals via text? Click here to sign up for SMS updates and get 15% off your next purchase!”
6. Integrate SMS Opt-Ins in Signup or Checkout Forms
If you already ask customers to fill out forms (for newsletters or accounts), why not add an SMS opt-in option? Simply include a checkbox for “Receive updates and offers via SMS” on all your forms, including at checkout.
This seamless integration encourages customers to sign up without extra effort, increasing your SMS subscriber count.
7. Promote SMS Opt-Ins via Social Media
Use your social media platforms to promote your SMS list. With a simple post explaining the benefits of subscribing—like exclusive offers or flash sales—you can convert followers into SMS subscribers.
For example, on Instagram, you could post: “Want early access to our Black Friday sale? Text ‘SALEVIP’ to 56789 to join our SMS list!”
8. Partner with Influencers for SMS Opt-Ins
Influencer marketing is another great way to grow your SMS list. Partner with influencers who resonate with your target audience, and have them promote your SMS opt-in campaign.
For instance, they could mention your SMS keywords in their posts or videos, encouraging their followers to sign up for exclusive deals.
9. Ask for Referrals from Current Subscribers
Turn your current SMS subscribers into ambassadors for your list. Offer incentives for referrals, such as a discount for both the referrer and the new subscriber. This strategy not only grows your list but also strengthens customer loyalty.
An example message: “Refer a friend to our SMS list and you both get 20% off your next purchase!”
10. Convert Web Chat Leads to SMS Subscribers
If you use live chat on your website, this is a prime opportunity to capture SMS opt-ins. You can automate chatbots to ask customers if they’d like to receive updates via SMS.
For example, after a customer inquiry, your bot could ask: “Would you like to receive future deals and updates via SMS? Click here to opt in!”
How to Retain Your SMS Subscribers
Growing your list is just the beginning. Keeping your subscribers engaged and satisfied is essential to maintaining a healthy list. Here’s how:
Treat Subscribers as VIPs
Make your SMS subscribers feel special by offering exclusive deals, early access to sales, and personalized offers. This will increase their loyalty and reduce the likelihood of them opting out.
Send Targeted, Relevant Messages
Segment your subscribers based on their interests or purchase history. Some may prefer flash sales, while others want new product updates. Targeting specific groups with relevant messages ensures better engagement.
Don’t Spam Your Subscribers
Sending too many messages can annoy customers and lead to opt-outs. Keep your messages concise, relevant, and timely—preferably during business hours.
Always Stay Compliant
Compliance is critical in SMS marketing. Ensure you have clear opt-ins from customers and send texts only during the legal window (8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., according to TCPA regulations). Following these SMS marketing rules keeps your campaign ethical and effective.
Ready to Grow Your SMS Subscriber List?
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly grow your SMS subscriber list, leading to increased sales and stronger customer relationships. Remember, the key to successful SMS marketing lies in providing real value and respecting customer preferences.
Need help setting up or expanding your SMS marketing campaign? Falkon SMS is here to assist. Contact us today to start building a successful SMS strategy tailored to your business!
Articles you may also like to read:
Kommentare