Decoding the Possibilities 

Tips for Success
 

In a world where consumers see around 4,000 to 10,000 ads each day, it is challenging to break through the digital noise and when you do you need to rely on consumer engagement to know if you are reaching the right people. Successfully cracking the engagement code is what will help you stand out from competitors and increase profits. Easier said than done. Considering that over 95% of text messages are opened compare that to a 22% open rate for email, it is easy to see why short code campaigns are one of the best ways to drive consumer engagement.

Using simple, easy-to-remember short codes for your Short Message Service (SMS)/text marketing campaigns drives even higher consumer engagement.  In fact, 90% of text messages are read within 3 seconds, allowing customers to opt in and seamlessly interact with your brand when, where and how they prefer. No wonder short codes are the most universally trusted messaging option available.

Keep the following best practices in mind when you utilize SMS/text marketing campaigns:

1. Comply with Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) Regulations and Avoid Fines
   TCPA regulations are designed to protect consumers from unwanted messages and every business needs to comply. One rule you should remember is your company can only send messages to consumers who have opted in to receive them. Using short codes helps simplify the opt-in compliance requirement and makes it easier for consumers and brands to interact digitally.
    
2. Select a Memorable Short Code and Advertise It
   Given that consumers see a large number of ads each day, your short code should be something that is memorable. Vanity short codes allow you to choose numbers to spell something related to your company or s a numerical combination (think repetitive numbers) that is easy to remember. Once you have it selected, be sure to include the short code on all of your promotional and advertising materials so that meaningful, two-way customer engagement can begin.
    
3. Keep the Message Short and Drive Interaction
   
   When was the last time you read a long text message? Consumers are busy and messages need to be short and straightforward. Need to advertise an upcoming sale? Use your short code and text:  Save 35% on new arrivals in-stores and online! Use code 35sale online or show this message in stores.  This gets the information directly to your customers, driving both loyalty and sales.
   No promotion?  No worries.  The two-way interactive simplicity of short codes allows you to keep the conversation going no matter what you want to talk about. 
    
4. Take Advantage of Engagement and Capitalize on it
   Now that you have your audience’s attention, let the true engagement begin! Be sure to include a link, code or contact details so that they gain value and stay engaged with you.
    
5. Use The Right Frequency and Hold Their Attention
   One way to annoy customers is to text more frequently than they were expecting or provide information they aren’t interested in receiving.  General industry guidance, as reported by Inc., recommends sending 2-4 messages a month. The keywords in short codes help make sure you are sending helpful, timely and relevant information and, most importantly, what they want to receive.