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Terminology of SMS marketing

Updated: Sep 15, 2023


Terminology of SMS Marketing: opt-in, opt- out, toll-free numbers, short code, auto-reply, keyword, CTA
Terminology of SMS Marketing: opt-in, opt- out, toll-free numbers, short code, auto-reply, keyword, CTA

Terminology of SMS Marketing:

SMS marketing is an excellent opportunity to reach large groups of people. However, to accomplish it efficiently, you need to understand SMS marketing terminology fully. This part summarizes the top 6 SMS marketing terms you need to know. Let’s start!


1. Opt-in/Opt-out

Opt-in and opt-out are the terms about user permissions to receive text messages. Opt-in means your target accepts to receive text messages from you. For example, if your subscribers choose to leave your bulk text messaging lists one day, this means they want to opt-out. Therefore, you should always provide an opt-out option to your subscribers.


2. Definition of Toll-free Numbers

Toll-free numbers are the numbers that users can dial free of charge. They are ten-digit numbers and generally start with 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, and 833. In SMS marketing, toll-free numbers are used to get replies from subscribers. So, toll-free numbers provide mutual communication between companies and customers. Actually, in SMS marketing, toll-free numbers are quite beneficial for brand recognition because you can use the toll-free numbers to run your customer service through texting.


3. Definition of Short-code Numbers

Big companies use short-code numbers in SMS marketing as an alternative to toll-free numbers. Unlike toll-free numbers, short-codes are 5 or 6 digit numbers. Generally, short-codes are preferred for high-volume messaging like verifications or reminders.



4. Definition of Auto-reply

Sometimes customers need to text you to opt-in, opt-out, receive codes, etc. When they text you, you need to reply to all these messages to inform customers that their process was successful or provide them with codes. Instead of responding to all text messages, you can use auto-reply. Auto-reply is a part of customer relationship management that allows you to send automated messages to customers regarding specific keywords.


5. Definition of Keyword

In SMS marketing, a keyword is a code that your target sends you to opt-in your related bulk message lists. For example, you can generate a text message list that includes only students if you have a specific student discount. Then, if students want to opt-in to this student-specific text message list, they can send a specific “keyword” to you. You determine this particular keyword. For example, it can be ”STUDENT.”


6. Definition of CTA

CTA means a “call to action.” It is a general marketing term, but it contributes to SMS marketing campaigns. If you use CTA, you will trigger the eagerness of your target.


Here are some CTA examples for SMS marketing:

  • Click the link

  • See the discounted products

  • Visit the website

  • Show this code

  • Use this code

  • Enter the code

  • Join from link

  • Purchase before the link expires


Happy Texting ⭐️

The Pony Express HQ Team

 

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