Building an SMS list is one of the most effective ways to reach customers instantly. With mobile devices always within arm’s reach, text list marketing offers a direct, high-engagement channel to share updates, promotions, and valuable content.
At OptinMonster, we’ve helped thousands of businesses grow their marketing lists using cutting-edge tools and proven strategies. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to boost your current SMS list, this guide will show you 10 actionable ways to attract subscribers and drive results.
- Why SMS Marketing Matters
- Essentials for Building an SMS List
- 10 Proven Strategies to Build Your Text List
Why SMS Marketing Matters
Text message marketing works because it’s personal, fast, and effective. Unlike email, which often gets buried in cluttered inboxes, SMS marketing messages are delivered directly to a customer’s phone—and they’re usually read within minutes.
Here are a few standout reasons to grow your SMS list:
- Unmatched Open Rates: SMS messages have an open rate of up to 98%, far higher than email or social media.
- Quick Delivery: You can instantly reach your audience with time-sensitive offers and updates.
- High ROI: Customers prefer SMS for updates, promotions, and alerts, making it one of the highest-converting channels.
To learn more, check out our ultimate guide to SMS marketing.
Essentials for Building an SMS List
Stay Compliant with SMS Marketing Rules
Texting customers without permission is not only bad practice but also illegal under regulations like TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act). Ensure every subscriber explicitly opts into your text list with clear messaging and proper disclaimers.
Here’s how to stay compliant:
- Use opt-in checkboxes on forms or checkout pages.
- Provide details about what types of messages you’ll send, such as promotions or product updates.
- Include opt-out instructions in every text message.
Use the Right Tools
Building and managing an SMS list requires the right technology. Two essential tools are:
- OptinMonster: Use OptinMonster to create engaging campaigns like popups, slide-ins, and gamified forms to collect phone numbers. The easy drag-and-drop builder lets you easily add the elements you need to any campaign, including phone number fields and opt-in checkboxes.
- SMS Platforms: Marketing software like Brevo (formerly Sendinblue) let you manage your email and SMS marketing in one platform. Alternatively, you can choose a standalone SMS marketing tool like EZ Texting.
With these tools, you can streamline the process of collecting and managing SMS subscribers.
10 Proven Strategies to Build Your Text List
1. Create Mobile-Friendly Popups
OptinMonster makes it easy to create popups that target mobile users. These popups can include an SMS opt-in form and offer an incentive like a discount or freebie.
Thankfully, all of OptinMonster’s 700+ templates are mobile-responsive. Plus, we offer dozens of templates for mobile-first popups that are are optimized specifically for mobile devices. For example, here’s our mobile template for a flash sale popup:
In our easy drag-and-drop builder, you can customize any template in minutes. And it only takes seconds to add a phone number field to any campaign.
You can also use our Device-Based Targeting to make sure your mobile users see the right SMS optin campaigns.
For example, a clothing store could 10% off a first purchase for joining the text list. The popup could appear just as a mobile user starts browsing products, prompting them to sign up.
Learn more about best practices for mobile popups.
2. Use QR Codes
QR codes are a simple way to encourage signups, especially in offline settings. For instance, a café could add a QR code to its menus. When scanned, the code opens a pre-filled text with a keyword like “JOIN” that customers send to opt into the list.
3. Gamify the Signup Process
Interactive popups like OptinMonster’s Coupon Wheels make signing up fun. Visitors enter their phone number for a chance to win a discount or other prize. This excitement often results in higher opt-in rates.
4. Add SMS Opt-Ins at Checkout
Many eCommerce businesses already collect phone numbers for order updates. Add an opt-in checkbox at checkout, letting customers join your SMS list for exclusive offers. Ensure the messaging is clear and compliant.
5. Promote on Social Media
Social platforms like Instagram and Facebook are great places to promote your text list. Share posts or stories inviting followers to join, offering a special perk like early access to sales. Use phrases like “Text JOIN to 12345 to get 15% off your first order!”
6. Offer Exclusive Discounts
Everyone loves a good deal. Offering discounts exclusively for SMS subscribers gives people a reason to join your list. For example, a restaurant could send a text like, “Sign up for our text list and enjoy 20% off your next meal!”
With OptinMonster, you can create an eye-catching campaign featuring this discount on your website, ensuring the offer stands out and drives signups.
7. Run Text-to-Win Contests
Contests are a great way to build excitement and grow your SMS list quickly. For instance, you could promote a “text-to-win” campaign where participants send a keyword to a short code for a chance to win a prize.
8. Engage In-Store Visitors
Brick-and-mortar businesses can grow their text list by targeting foot traffic. Add signage at checkout counters or near product displays, inviting customers to join. Include a QR code or simple instructions, like, “Text SAVE to 56789 for exclusive deals.”
For example, a local bookstore could display a sign reading: “Love books? Join our SMS list for weekly discounts and new arrivals!”
9. Turn Email Subscribers Into SMS Subscribers
If you already have an email list, it’s a great resource for growing your SMS list. Send an email inviting subscribers to join your text list for additional perks like exclusive offers or faster updates.
A boutique could send an email with the subject line, “Be the First to Know! Join Our VIP Text List Today,” featuring a prominent call-to-action button linking to a signup form.
10. Create Dedicated Landing Pages
A dedicated landing page can serve as the hub for your SMS list-building efforts. Direct visitors to this page from social media ads, email campaigns, or print marketing materials.
For instance, a beauty brand could create a landing page that says, “Stay Gorgeous! Sign up for text alerts and enjoy 10% off your next purchase.” Best Practices for SMS Marketing
Start Building Your SMS List Today
Start building your SMS list today with OptinMonster’s advanced lead-generation tools. Whether you want to create popups, gamified forms, or custom landing pages, we’ve got you covered.
Get started with OptinMonster and watch your text list grow!
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