As the world becomes more digital, a vast majority of marketers are focusing on promoting their events on social media, email, and other digital platforms. However, one form of marketing that is often overlooked is SMS marketing. SMS marketing for events has proven to be a highly effective way for event organizers to increase attendance, engagement, and ultimately, the success of their event.
Why Choose SMS Marketing for Events?
SMS marketing offers a unique advantage over other forms of marketing because of the high engagement rate associated with text messages. Text messages have a 98% open rate and 90% of them are read within the first three minutes of being received. This high engagement rate provides event organizers with a direct line of communication to their target audience.
Additionally, unlike other forms of digital marketing, SMS marketing does not require an internet connection, making it a more accessible option for attendees. Furthermore, text messaging is an intimate form of communication that encourages a personalized relationship between the event organizer and attendees, which can lead to higher attendance rates and overall success.
How to Use SMS Marketing for Events
The first step in utilizing SMS marketing for events is to build a targeted list of subscribers. The best way to do this is to give attendees the option to opt-in to receive text messages during the registration process. Event organizers can also promote the opt-in option on their website, social media, and other marketing materials.
Once a list of subscribers is established, the event organizer can send text messages regarding event details, schedule changes, speaker announcements, and other relevant information. SMS marketing can also be used to send reminders about upcoming events, engage attendees during the event with real-time updates, and send post-event surveys for feedback.
It’s important to note that event organizers should be mindful of how frequently they send text messages, as too many messages can lead to subscribers opting-out. One to two messages per week leading up to the event, and a few during the event, is a sufficient amount to keep attendees engaged without overwhelming them.
Best Practices for SMS Marketing for Events
When using SMS marketing for events, there are several best practices to keep in mind:
- Keep messages concise and to-the-point
- Include clear call-to-actions, such as “RSVP” or “Register Now”
- Include a way for subscribers to opt-out if they choose to
- Personalize messages as much as possible, such as including the subscriber’s first name
- Schedule messages at appropriate times, such as during business hours
Conclusion
SMS marketing for events is a highly effective tool for event organizers looking to increase attendance and engagement. With high open and engagement rates, SMS marketing offers an intimate and direct line of communication to attendees. By following best practices and utilizing SMS marketing in a targeted and strategic manner, event organizers can enhance the success of their events and leave a lasting impression on their attendees.
