Subscribe by SMS

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Use the Subscribe by SMS Feature

The Subscribe by SMS feature is an innovative way to grow your email marketing list. With this feature, individuals can subscribe simply by sending a text message with a specific keyword to a designated phone number associated with your ActiveCampaign account. This opt-in method allows you to engage with potential customers seamlessly, providing an easy channel for them to receive updates and marketing materials via email. Notably, using this feature does not consume any SMS credits, making it a cost-effective marketing tool.

How to Access This Feature

To access the Subscribe by SMS feature, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the Contacts section by clicking on Contacts in the left menu. 2. In the Contacts view, select Lists. 3. Locate the email list you intend to associate with the SMS subscription. This is done by clicking the down caret next to the desired list. 4. From the dropdown menu, select Subscribe by SMS to begin the setup process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you have accessed the feature, follow these detailed steps to configure your Subscribe by SMS settings:

1. **Choose a Phone Number**:

   - In the phone number dropdown, select the phone number you wish to use for receiving subscription texts. These numbers are conveniently categorized by Country, allowing for easier selection.

2. **Enter Your Keyword**:

   - In the Keyword field, type the specific keyword that individuals will text to the selected phone number to subscribe to your list. This should be something easy to remember and relevant to your marketing efforts.

3. **Set Up Response Messages**:

   - You will find default response text for the following messages:
       - First response to the subscriber
       - Subscription confirmation message
       - Email address problem message
   - You can either use the provided text or customize your own by typing your messages into the appropriate fields.

4. **Activate SMS Subscription**:

   - After you have completed the previous steps, click the Activate SMS Subscription button to finalize the setup. Your SMS subscription feature is now ready for use!

Configuration Options and Settings

The key configuration options available in the Subscribe by SMS feature include:

- **Phone Number**: The specific phone number linked to your ActiveCampaign account where subscription texts will be sent. - **Keyword**: A designated term that users will text to subscribe to your email list. - **Response Messages**: You can customize the initial acknowledgment, confirmation, and error messages to enhance user experience.

Best Practices and Tips

To maximize the effectiveness of the Subscribe by SMS feature, consider the following best practices:

- **Choose Keywords Wisely**: Select a keyword that is short, memorable, and closely related to your brand or campaign. - **Promote Your SMS Subscription Option**: Include information about subscribing via SMS in your marketing materials and on your website to increase visibility. - **Test Your Setup**: Before promoting the SMS subscription method, send a few test messages to ensure that everything works as expected. - **Monitor Responses**: Keep track of how many users subscribe via SMS and analyze the effectiveness of your campaigns to make informed adjustments.

Common Use Cases with Examples

The Subscribe by SMS feature can be utilized in various scenarios, including:

- **Event Promotions**: Enable attendees to subscribe for updates and information about upcoming events by texting a keyword. - **Flash Sales or Limited-time Offers**: Utilize the feature to quickly inform subscribers about exclusive deals and drive immediate action. - **Customer Feedback**: Ask customers to subscribe for a follow-up survey or feedback opportunities by texting a keyword after their purchase.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with the Subscribe by SMS feature, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

- Ensure that you have selected a valid phone number available for your account. - Verify that the keyword you entered is not already in use or restricted by carrier regulations. - Attempt to re-enter and activate the SMS subscription after confirming the settings.

FAQ

1. What plans support the Subscribe by SMS feature?

The Subscribe by SMS feature is available for users with a Plus, Professional, or Enterprise plan, provided that you purchase the SMS add-on.

2. How do I change the phone number associated with my SMS subscriptions?

To change the phone number, access the Subscribe by SMS settings through the Contacts > Lists and select a different number from the dropdown list.

3. Can I customize the subscription confirmation message?

Yes, you can customize the subscription confirmation message, as well as other automated responses, within the response message settings.

4. Is there a cost associated with using the Subscribe by SMS feature?

There is no cost associated with individual SMS opt-ins or subscription texts, but you must have the necessary ActiveCampaign plan and SMS add-on.

5. How many keywords can I create for my SMS subscriptions?

You can create multiple unique keywords, but ensure that they are not already in use to avoid issues with SMS reception.

6. Can I track how many people subscribe via SMS?

Yes, ActiveCampaign provides analytic tools that allow you to track your subscription rates and assess performance metrics.

7. What happens if someone texts the wrong keyword?

If someone texts a keyword that is not recognized, they will receive the designated error message you have set.

By implementing the Subscribe by SMS feature effectively, you can streamline your email list growth and enhance your engagement strategy. ```