Text to join is an opt-in method that lets people subscribe to an SMS list by texting a keyword to a phone number or short code. Once they send the keyword, they receive an automated confirmation message and are added to the subscriber list.
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Text to join, also known as text to subscribe, is an opt-in method that lets people join your SMS list by texting a keyword to your phone number or short code.
Here's how it works in three steps:
Because the subscriber initiates contact themselves, text to join is one of the most compliant opt-in methods available. Once someone joins, you can immediately begin sending mass texting promotions, enroll them in text automations, or organize them into segments based on the keyword they used.
The process for setting up a join by text system is easy with the right SMS marketing provider, and you can be up and running in just a few minutes. All it takes is two simple steps.
The first step with text to join is to set up a keyword. Keywords are unique words or phrases that you set up in SlickText that make it easy for people to engage with your number. People who are not subscribed to receive messages from you can text the keyword to a phone number or short code to opt in. At this point, their mobile number is collected and you can start sending text blasts at any time.
Your keyword can be whatever you want, however, we recommend that you keep it short, easy to remember, and easy to spell. One word is best, and you should avoid special characters.
Keywords are used for multiple purposes. In addition to using them for text to subscribe purposes, you can set up keywords that send automatic replies but don’t create contacts. For instance, you may create the keyword “hours” to share your business hours without adding the texter as a contact on your subscriber list.
Immediately after someone texts to join your SMS list, they will receive an automated response called an auto reply. These are also known as SMS autoresponders and are simple messages back to the person confirming that they've successfully opted in.
In many cases, you'll incentivize people with an offer in exchange for joining. This auto response SMS is what delivers on that incentive.
No text to join service is complete without a comprehensive analytics dashboard. The SlickText platform gives you visibility into valuable data, from opt-ins and unsubscribes to link click data. With smarter analytics, you’ll be equipped for smarter marketing.
WHY CHOOSE US
Beginner-friendly functionality and an in-depth analytics dashboard means SlickText is perfect for marketers of all experience levels. Here are just a few of the reasons we’re the #1 rated SMS marketing service.
We've created a simple process for letting people join by text. From the time you create your account, you can start collecting phone numbers in under 5 minutes.
Our SMS marketing software runs smoothly on both desktop and mobile devices. You can download our mobile app for iOS or Android and manage your text to join campaigns on the go.
Our text to join service makes it incredibly simple to connect with your favorite email provider. We currently have direct integrations with the most popular email marketing services. For boutique email integrations, you can connect through Zapier.
Want help setting up your text to join? That's why we're here. Our knowledgeable staff is here to ensure you’re set up to succeed.
Questions about text to join? Find the answers you need below.
Text to join is an SMS opt-in method that lets people subscribe to your text list by texting a keyword to a phone number or short code. Once they send the keyword, they're automatically added to your subscriber list and receive a confirmation message. It's one of the fastest and most compliant ways to grow an SMS audience.
Text to join works in three steps. First, you create a keyword—a short, memorable word like "JOIN." Second, you promote that keyword alongside your phone number on signage, social media, or your website. Third, when someone texts the keyword, they're instantly added to your list and receive an automated reply confirming their opt-in and delivering any incentive you've set up.
A keyword is the word or phrase subscribers text to opt into your SMS list. For example, a restaurant might use "TACOS" and ask customers to text it to a specific number. Keywords should be short, easy to spell, and easy to remember. With SlickText, you can create multiple keywords for different campaigns, locations, or audience segments.
Yes. SlickText lets you create multiple keywords within a single account. This is useful for segmenting subscribers by location, campaign, or interest — for example, using "DALLAS" and "CHICAGO" for enterprise SMS marketing across multiple locations.
An SMS auto reply is the automated message a subscriber receives immediately after texting your keyword. It confirms their opt-in and can include a welcome message, discount code, link, or any other incentive. Auto replies are required for compliance and are fully customizable in SlickText.
Yes. Text to join is considered one of the most compliant SMS opt-in methods because the subscriber initiates contact themselves, providing clear and documented consent. SlickText includes built-in compliance tools to ensure your keywords, auto replies, and opt-out processing meet TCPA requirements. See our compliance guide for full details.
Text to join requires no internet connection. Subscribers opt in by texting a keyword from their phone, making it ideal for in-person environments like retail stores, events, and restaurants. Web forms collect opt-ins online through embedded forms or landing pages and are better suited for website visitors. SlickText supports both methods, and many businesses use them together to maximize list growth.
The most effective places to promote a text to join keyword are in-store signage and table tents, printed on receipts and packaging, in social media bios and posts, on your website, during live events or webinars, and in email newsletters. Including an incentive significantly increases opt-in rates.
With SlickText, you can create a keyword, configure your auto reply, and start collecting subscribers in under five minutes. No technical skills or coding is required.
Text to join is included in every SlickText plan, starting at $29/month. There are no additional fees to create keywords or collect subscribers. A free trial is available with no credit card required.
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