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SMS allows for quick and direct communication, making it a reliable channel for sharing updates, reminders, alerts, and other important information related to an event. Text messaging’s importance in event coordination and business communication lies in its ability to engage attendees instantly, deliver timely information, and streamline coordination.
But, how can you use text messaging to your event’s benefit? This blog explores the ins and outs of event text messaging for businesses.
What Is Event Text Messaging?
Event text messaging refers to using SMS to send attendees important alerts, reminders, and updates throughout the event lifecycle. This includes pre-event notifications, such as registration confirmations, real-time updates during the event like session changes, and post-event messages like thank-you notes.
Event text messaging aims to keep attendees informed and engaged, ensuring they have the necessary information at their fingertips. By leveraging this direct and instant communication tool, businesses can enhance the overall attendee experience, improve event attendance, and streamline logistics, ultimately creating a smoother, more efficient event.
Top Benefits of Event SMS
Unlike traditional methods like email or push notifications, event text messaging offers several distinct advantages that can significantly enhance communication during events.
Let’s look at a few top reasons to consider SMS alerts for your next event:
- Boost event attendance. Sending event reminders and invites via text can help you get more attendees. For example, a simple text reminder can reduce no shows.
- Keep guests informed. Texting allows you to keep guests engaged at your event. This is especially useful for in-person conferences, where attendees are spread out across a large venue and do not always check their email.
- Ensure important alerts are read. Texting has a 98% open rate, making it an effective channel for important communications. You can share important alerts and ensure they get read.
- Immediate delivery. In addition to a high open rate, text messages are read within three minutes of receipt. This makes SMS a vital messaging tool for real-time updates and last-minute changes.
- Highly trackable. When you use an event SMS platform like Mozeo, your event SMS campaigns are highly trackable. SMS platforms come equipped with metrics to show you delivery rates and unsubscribe rates.
- Versatile. Texting for events is very versatile. There are many use cases for event planning teams and businesses. It also can be used before, during, and after events.
- Easy to scale and segment. Mass texting platforms make it easy to send SMS messages to segmented groups or all event contacts simultaneously.
How to Use SMS for Events: 13 Examples
SMS marketing offers a versatile and effective way to keep attendees informed, engaged, and connected throughout an event. Here are some of the top use cases for SMS in event management:
Event Invitations
General Invite: Use SMS to send a simple and direct invitation to your subscribers, informing them about your upcoming event.
Example: Join us for [Event Name]! Don’t miss out on an exciting day of [brief description]. Register now at [link]!
Event Discounts
Early Access Sale: Give your subscribers priority access to tickets or event-related items before they’re available to the public.
Example: Early access for you! Buy tickets to [Event Name] now before they sell out. Use the code EARLYBIRD at checkout for a discount!
Exclusive Deals: Send SMS alerts offering discounts or special offers related to the event.
Example: Special Offer for Attendees! Use your code [CODE] for 20% off event merchandise. Offer valid until [date].
Event Reminders
Event Date and Time: Send reminders to your attendees about the event date, time, and location to ensure they’re prepared.
Example: Reminder: [Event Name] is tomorrow at [time] at [location]. See you there! Don’t forget your [ticket/ID].
RSVP Reminder: Encourage attendees to RSVP if they haven’t already.
Example: Just a friendly reminder to RSVP for [Event Name] happening on [Date] at [Time]. We’d love to have you join us! Please let us know if you can make it by [RSVP Deadline].
Real-Time Updates
Changes: Instantly notify attendees about any schedule changes, session room updates, or speaker alterations.
Example: Attention: [Session Name] has been moved to Room [new room number]. See you there!
Event Emergencies: Use SMS to alert attendees in case of emergencies or major disruptions.
Example: Urgent: Due to severe weather, we are moving the event to [new location]. Please head there immediately.
On-Site Check-In
Check-In Details: Provide a seamless check-in process by sending attendees SMS check-in instructions.
Example: Welcome to [Event Name]! Text ‘CHECKIN’ to [short code] to complete your check-in. Have a great time!
Event Contests
Giveaways and Contests: Engage your audience by running SMS-based contests during the event.
Example: Text ‘WIN’ to [short code] for a chance to win exclusive prizes at [Event Name]! The contest ends at [time].
Attendee Engagement
Welcome Messages: Upon arrival, send a personalized welcome message with essential details.
Example: Welcome to [Event Name]! Here’s your personalized schedule. Enjoy your day, and don’t forget to check out [special sessions or exhibits]!
VIP Messages: Send tailored information to VIPs or sponsors, including parking details and exclusive agenda items.
Example: Hello [VIP Name], your VIP experience at [Event Name] starts now! Park in [VIP parking lot] and join us for the private reception at [time].
Post-Event Messages
Thank You Messages: Send personalized thank-you messages after the event, with links to content or next steps.
Example: Thank you for attending [Event Name]! We hope you enjoyed it. Watch the full event recap here: [link].
Feedback Requests: Ask for valuable feedback via SMS to improve future events.
Example: We’d love your feedback! Tell us what you liked about [Event Name] and how we can improve. Text your thoughts to [short code].
How to Get Started with Event Texting for Business
By following these four simple steps, businesses can seamlessly incorporate SMS into their event planning and ensure better communication with attendees.
Step 1: Choose an SMS Platform
Select a reliable SMS platform that fits your business needs. Look for one that allows easy integration with your event registration system and provides features like bulk messaging, automation, and analytics. You’ll also need to register a business texting number, which could include a shortcode or longcode number.
Step 2: Collect Opt-Ins
Before sending any messages, make sure you collect consent from your attendees. This is typically done by asking attendees to opt-in to receive SMS communications during the registration process or through a separate sign-up form. Ensure you follow legal regulations, such as the TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act), to avoid any compliance issues.
Step 3: Create Message Templates
Next, it’s time for you to craft your text messages. You’ll want to think of the critical updates you want to share with attendees and when you want to send them. For example, decide when to send the initial event invite, event reminders, and post-purchase updates. You can develop templates ahead of time for different types of messages, such as event reminders, updates, or emergency alerts. Keep messages short, clear, and actionable.
Step 4: Send Messages
Once you’ve created your message templates and collected your opt-ins, start sending messages according to your event timeline. You can schedule messages in advance, send them in real time, or automate updates based on attendee behavior. Always monitor delivery rates and engagement to refine your strategy.
Get Smoother Event Communication With Mozeo
Want to take your event communication to the next level? Mozeo’s SMS platform makes it easy to send personalized event reminders, real-time updates, and promotional offers that engage your attendees and keep them informed. With features like mass texting, photo messages, and advanced analytics, you’ll ensure a smoother, more efficient event experience from start to finish.
Ready to get started? Sign up for a free demo today and see how Mozeo can help you boost attendance and guest satisfaction at your next event!
