Steps to collect SMS consent

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Steps to collect SMS consent

Introduction

Collecting explicit consent for SMS marketing is an essential legal requirement for businesses that aim to connect with their customers through SMS broadcasts. As SMS marketing continues to gain popularity due to its high engagement rates, it is imperative that businesses follow regulations concerning consent to ensure compliance and maintain trust with their audience. This article details the steps needed to collect SMS consent effectively, manage SMS lists, and ensure compliance with relevant laws.

How to Access This Feature

To utilize the SMS consent collection feature in ActiveCampaign, you must have access to the SMS functionality, which is available with the Plus, Professional, and Enterprise plans of ActiveCampaign. Log into your ActiveCampaign account to start setting up SMS consent collection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Your SMS Marketing List

The first step is to create a dedicated SMS marketing list where all opted-in contacts will be stored. This list is crucial as it ensures compliance and that only those with proper consent are included. Follow these steps to create your SMS marketing list:

1. Click Contacts in the left menu.
2. Click on Lists.
3. A list of all current lists will appear. Click on Add a list.
4. A modal window will open. Fill in all required fields. For the Marketing Channel field, select SMS from the dropdown.
5. Click the Save button.

For comprehensive guidelines on compliance, it is advisable to review the SMS requirements documentation.

Adding Contacts with Existing Consent

Once you have your SMS marketing list set up, you can add contacts who have already given consent. Use one of the following methods:

• CSV Import: Prepare a CSV file with required fields, such as the phone number and consent status, then import it into your new SMS list. Refer to the help article on how to import contacts from a CSV file for more details.
• Bulk Edit & Automations: Use ActiveCampaign’s bulk edit functionality or set up automations using the Subscribes to list action to update existing contacts based on your consent specifications.

Collecting New SMS Consent

To grow your list further and gather new SMS consents, creating a subscription form is highly effective. Your subscription form should include:

• A Phone collection field (required)
• An Email address field (optional)
• A Clear consent checkbox with compliant opt-in language (be sure to customize the business name in this message)
• A Subscribe to list action

After creating your form, embed it on high-traffic areas of your website or landing page. Alternatively, it can be included in your email campaigns by linking to your SMS subscription form.

Configuration Options and Settings

While managing SMS consent, you will need to be familiar with the following configuration options within ActiveCampaign:

• SMS marketing list: The fundamental component where opted-in contacts are stored.
• CSV Import: An option that allows for bulk addition of contacts with pre-existing consent.
• Subscription form: A tool to facilitate the collection of new SMS consents effectively.

Best Practices and Compliance

Adhering to regulatory standards during SMS marketing helps build trust and protects your brand reputation. Here are some best practices:

• **Clarity in Consent**: Provide clear language on forms and in SMS messages to ensure transparency.
• **Opt-Out Options**: Always include an easy opt-out method in every SMS broadcast. This is vital for compliance and customer satisfaction.
• **Regular List Audits**: Periodically review your SMS list to ensure all contacts have given valid consent.
• **Double Opt-In (if needed)**: Consider employing a double opt-in method for enhanced compliance and assurance that contacts genuinely wish to receive messages.

Following these practices not only safeguards your business but also fosters trust with your audience.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while setting up SMS consent collection, consider the following common complications:

• Contact not receiving SMS: Ensure the phone numbers are correctly formatted and that they are indeed opted-in.
• Form not sending data: Check the integration settings and make sure the subscription form is connected to the correct SMS marketing list.

For further assistance, refer to the ActiveCampaign support resources or community forums.

Related Features

Explore these related features for a more comprehensive understanding of SMS marketing and compliance:

• SMS
• Compliance

FAQ

1. What is SMS consent and why is it important?

SMS consent is the explicit permission from contacts to receive marketing messages via SMS. It is crucial to comply with legal standards and to ensure trust with your audience.

2. How can I verify if my contacts have granted SMS consent?

You can verify consent status by reviewing your SMS marketing list and checking the consent criteria during the CSV import or bulk editing process.

3. What should my SMS consent form include?

Your consent form should include a phone number field, an optional email field, a clear consent checkbox, and an action to subscribe contacts to your SMS list.

4. Can I use my existing email list for SMS marketing?

You can add contacts from your existing email list to your SMS marketing list as long as they have explicitly given consent to receive SMS communications.

5. What happens if I do not comply with SMS consent regulations?

Failure to comply with SMS consent regulations may result in legal repercussions, fines, and damage to your brand’s reputation.

6. How often should I audit my SMS list for consent verification?

It is recommended to conduct regular audits of your SMS list, at least once every few months, to ensure that all contacts have provided valid consent.

7. Is there a way to automate the SMS consent process?

Yes, by setting up automations in ActiveCampaign, you can facilitate the process of collecting and managing SMS consents effectively.

By following the outlined steps for collecting SMS consent, you can ensure compliance with legal standards while effectively engaging with your audience through SMS marketing. ```