A Call-to-Action (CTA) in the context of text messaging is a statement that encourages customers to take a specific action, such as opting in to receive text messages, engaging with your service, or acknowledging terms of communication. These CTAs also help ensure that your customers are informed about what they're signing up for and can protect your business by keeping it compliant with carrier and legal regulations.
Here are some examples of CTAs for different scenarios in text messaging:
1. Customer Support CTA Example
- Message:
“Text SUPPORT to [Your Business Number] for help with your account. By texting us, you agree to receive service-related messages. Message and data rates may apply.” - Purpose:
This CTA informs customers that by texting you, they are consenting to receive further communications related to customer service.
2. Appointment Reminder CTA Example
- Message:
“Text CONFIRM to [Your Business Number] to confirm your appointment with [Business Name]. By texting us, you agree to receive appointment updates. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.” - Purpose:
This CTA ensures customers are opting into receiving appointment-related messages, while also providing an option to opt out (Reply STOP).
3. Subscription/Newsletter Opt-In CTA Example
- Message:
“Sign up for exclusive offers! Text JOIN to [Your Business Number]. By signing up, you agree to receive promotional messages from [Business Name]. Reply STOP to opt out. Message and data rates may apply.” - Purpose:
This CTA clearly defines that the customer will receive promotional messages and provides instructions to opt out.
4. Internal Communication/Employee Notifications CTA Example
- Message:
“Text YES to [Your Business Number] to receive important shift updates and company news. Standard messaging rates apply. Reply STOP to opt out.” - Purpose:
This message informs employees that texting YES will subscribe them to internal company notifications, with an option to unsubscribe.
5. Survey or Feedback Request CTA Example
- Message:
“We’d love your feedback! Text SURVEY to [Your Business Number] to participate. By texting, you agree to receive a one-time message from [Business Name] regarding this survey.” - Purpose:
This CTA is for collecting feedback and ensures that the customer understands they will receive a single survey-related message.
6. Order Confirmation/Tracking CTA Example
- Message:
“Text TRACK to [Your Business Number] to get real-time updates on your order. By texting us, you agree to receive order notifications. Standard message rates apply.” - Purpose:
This CTA explains that the customer will receive order tracking information and that data rates may apply.
7. Event Reminder/Registration CTA Example
- Message:
“Don’t miss our event! Text RSVP to [Your Business Number] to register for updates. By opting in, you agree to receive event-related messages from [Business Name]. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.” - Purpose:
This informs customers that they’ll receive event notifications once they opt in and how to unsubscribe if needed.
8. Marketing Campaign Opt-In CTA Example
- Message:
“Get 20% off your next purchase! Text SAVE20 to [Your Business Number] to receive your discount. By opting in, you agree to receive promotional messages from [Business Name]. Msg & Data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel.” - Purpose:
This CTA clearly communicates that the user will receive marketing messages in exchange for a promotional offer.
Key Elements of a Compliant CTA
- Clear Instructions: Tell customers exactly what they need to do (e.g., “Text JOIN to [number]”).
- Consent Notification: State that by texting the number, they agree to receive messages from your business (e.g., “By texting, you agree to receive messages from [Business Name]”).
- Data Rates: Include a disclaimer about possible message and data rates (e.g., “Message and data rates may apply”).
- Opt-Out Option: Provide clear instructions on how to stop receiving messages (e.g., “Reply STOP to cancel”).
Including these elements ensures your CTA is compliant with carrier regulations and maintains transparency with customers, helping to build trust while avoiding penalties.