If your business takes advantage of text message marketing, then it’s important to make sure you’re going about it the right way.
This is especially the case when using long codes in your customer outreach efforts.
Here are just a few tips for getting the most out of using long codes in your text marketing:
Choose a Dedicated Long Code
In the world of text message long codes, there are two main types to choose from: dedicated and shared. Although shared long codes offer a number of benefits, there are also numerous drawbacks with going the shared route.
For example, shared long codes are used by multiple companies through the same text message service provider, which means your business doesn’t have exclusive rights to the 10-digit phone number.
A dedicated long code on the hand is exclusively used by your business.
This means you are able to use unlimited keywords and you also have full control over the inbound and outbound marketing messages you send.
Think About the Keywords
Whether you choose a shared or dedicated long code, it’s important to put some thought into the keywords you use in your campaigns. Long code keywords are what send your customers’ texts to the right inbound routing area.
Using keywords that are similar or the same as others within your text message campaigns can quickly get your signals crossed. To avoid this, make sure you use a unique keyword for each long code you have.
Additionally, make sure the keywords match the tone and content of your text campaigns.
For instance, you wouldn’t use the keyword “shoes” in a text marketing campaign for hats. When your keywords correspond with the campaign, it makes life easier for your business and its customers.
Send Confirmations
As the following article looks at, if you’re wondering how long codes can improve your text message marketing, it’s mainly because long codes allow for two-way communication.
However, that’s only if you take full advantage of your long code service by letting your customers know you’ve received their texts.
Text confirmations are a fast and convenient way to tell your customers thanks for reaching out. You can even set up automated confirmations that send your customers a friendly text letting them know you got their message.
You’ll follow up from there of course, but that initial confirmation will ensure your customers aren’t left hanging.
Avoid the Spam Effect
The spam effect can occur with both short and long codes and basically refers to companies that go overboard with their text message marketing. This is especially easy to do when your business has dedicated long codes that allow for unlimited keywords.
Fortunately, you can avoid spamming your recipients with your text messages by keeping your texting to a minimum.
For example, your recipients should never receive a secondary long code text while they’re still waiting for a response from another text.
One way to avoid accidentally spamming your recipients is by asking them how many long code texts they’re comfortable receiving every week. Ask this question during the first text interaction with a new customer and you’ll remain in good standing throughout the length of the texting relationship.
When you’re ready to get coded, keep in mind the long code text message marketing pointers above.
Photo credit: BigStockPhoto.com
About the Author: Adam Groff is a freelance writer and creator of content. He writes on a variety of topics including marketing and mobile technology.
