Creating a Call to Action for a Text Opt-in

When you start using texting in your business, you’ll want to create a clear, compliant call-to-action (CTA). A CTA is the invitation to join your texting list that you use in your marketing, on your website, or at your point of sale. We’ve included some examples below.

Check out our Text Opt-in Methods Guide to see how you use your CTA when getting opt-ins from your customers. Though your CTA can vary, based on your option method, it should consist of the following items.

CTA Elements

Automated Marketing Messages

The federal rules for express written consent require consumers to agree to receive automated marketing messages, so be sure to make that clear in your CTA. You must also advise them that they don’t have to agree to receive the texts as a condition of buying anything from you.

SMS Campaign Purpose

Let your contacts know what they’re signing up for. Are they getting reminders? Coupons? Tips? Specify what you’re offering so there aren’t any surprises.

Message Frequency

Let them know if they’ll only receive one message (like a one-time coupon) or if they’re agreeing to sign up for a recurring message campaign (like weekly alerts or deals). You can include the approximate number of messages the customer should expect to receive in a given week or month.

Message and Data Rates

Even though unlimited texting has become more common, some users may still have to pay a small fee to receive text messages. Wireless carriers require you to inform your contacts that these charges may be incurred if they sign up for your texting program.

Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policies

Provide a link to the terms and conditions and privacy policy pages on your website. There are online tools, like websitepolicies.com, you can use to create create these for your business.

CTA Examples

Here are a few examples for different opt-in methods. Checkout our opt-in methods tutorial.

Text to Join

Customers text a keyword, like SUBSCRIBE, to your number.

Example: By texting [YOUR KEYWORD] you agree to receive promotional messages by SMS. This agreement is not a condition for purchase. You may receive up to [X] msgs per month. Msg and data rates may apply. Privacy Policy[your link] and Terms & Conditions[your link] apply.

Online

Customers complete a form on our website.

Example: You agree to receive promotional messages by SMS. You may receive up to [X] msgs per month. Msg and data rates may apply. Text HELP for more information. Text STOP to stop receiving messages. Privacy Policy[your link] and Terms & Conditions[your link] apply.

Point of Sale

Customer opt-in during an online checkout process or when making a purchase.

Example: I agree to receive notification messages by SMS. Message and data rates may apply. Text HELP for more information. Text STOP to stop receiving messages. Privacy Policy[your link] and Terms & Conditions[your link] apply.

Paper Forms

Customers opt-in on a written contract or sign-up form. Be sure to keep these records.

Example: You agree to receive promotional messages by SMS. You may receive up to [X] msgs per month. Msg and data rates may apply. Text HELP for more information. Text STOP to stop receiving messages. Privacy Policy[your link] and Terms & Conditions[your link] apply.

How to Write Your Call to Action

Use our examples as a starting point for your CTA. Update the campaign purpose, message frequency, terms and conditions, and privacy policy for your business. If you use more than one opt-in method, write a CTA for each method.

How to Use Your Text Call to Action

When you’re preparing to register for business texting, choose the opt-in method you want to use and write your CTA. Your CTA should appear in the screenshot you submit as part of your registration.

For example, if your opt-in method is online, include your CTA in your web form where customers opt-in and take a screenshot of your form to include in your business texting registration submission.

Include the appropriate CTA wherever you ask customers to opt-in to your texting list.

Texting Guides

Checkout our tutorials and guides on business text messaging, registration requirements, and toll-free number verification.

 

Additional policies, regulations, and laws may exist beyond those listed here. This is not legal advice. It is strongly recommended you consult your own legal advisor for help understanding legal obligations you may have, given the kind of messaging you wish to send.