How to Create an SMS Database the Correct Way
If you’re in the text marketing business, you know that one of the most important components is your SMS database. It is a list of phone numbers that have opted-in to receive texts from your business. But what’s the best way to go about creating this list? This blog post will walk you through how to create an SMS database.
Unlike email or phone calls, text messages are short and to the point, which makes them perfect for quickly getting in touch with customers or sending them reminders and updates. However, because text messages are so concise, it can be easy to lose track of important customer information if you’re not careful. That’s why creating a database of your customers’ text message interactions from the beginning is essential.
There are two main ways to create an SMS database: manually or through an API. Let’s look at each method to decide which is best for your needs.
Manual Entry
The first method is manual entry. It means that you or someone on your team will need to manually input each phone number into your system. It can be time-consuming, but it does have the benefit of allowing you to vet each number before adding it to your list. This method is best for small lists (<1000 numbers).
API Integration
The second method is through API integration. It means using an API (Application Programming Interface) to automatically add new numbers to your list as they opt in. It is much faster and easier than manual entry but requires technical know-how. This method is best for large lists (>1000 numbers).
The most important thing is to ensure that you’re collecting all the relevant information in one place so you can easily refer back to it later. Here are a few tips:
- Collect customer contact information: When a new customer opts in to receive text SMS Database messages from your business, ensure you collect their name and phone number. It will help you personalize your messages and ensure that you’re reaching the right person.
- Please keep track of opt-ins and opt-outs: It’s essential to keep track of who has opted in to receive text messages from your business and who has opted out. That way, you can avoid accidentally sending marketing messages to people who have no interest in receiving them.
- Archive old text messages: Once you’ve finished a conversation with a customer or resolved an issue, make sure you save or archive the text message exchange so that you can refer back to it later if necessary. It will be handy if a customer ever contacts you about the same issue again.
Provide vital information that piques consumers’ attention, and your list will keep growing. Below are a few suggestions to assist you in expanding your database:
In-Store
Since many individuals are already involved in your store or facility, this is an excellent alternative for restaurant chains, retail stores, gymnasiums, etc. In addition, owning an on-site opt-in mechanism is a perfect way to create your list quickly, whether you have a sign-up sheet at the front workstation or your employees describe how well the consumer can participate throughout a shopping.
Social Media Sites
Inspire your followers on social media to join your SMS Database of customers by constantly posting about it. Your followers could indeed opt into your list by giving a simple Text message by publishing your dedicated number.
Internet
Consumers are visiting your site; thus, why not take advantage of this opportunity to entice them to sign up for your dataset? You could use a pop-up or, if you have an e-commerce platform, include a checkbox during the checkout process.
Conclusion
The best way to create an SMS database will vary depending on your needs. For example, manual entry may be your best option if you have a small list (<1000 numbers). On the other hand, API integration may be the better choice if you have an extensive list (>1000 numbers). Whichever method you choose, make sure that you vet each number before adding it to your list to ensure optimal results for your text marketing campaigns.
