We’ve just been through an election season with lots of signs, TV ads, canvassing and text messages. Finally, those are all abating. Most so for text messages. It seems that the politicians realize that text messaging is very effective. Marketing text messages have a higher open rate than emails. They have a near-instantaneous delivery, and a personal feel.
Here are some of the best reasons to use mass texting to your congregation:
Instant Reach
- Timely Updates: Churches can quickly inform members about upcoming events, service times, cancellations (e.g., due to weather), or urgent announcements.
- Event Reminders: Automated reminders ensure that members and guests don’t miss important events, prayer meetings, or special services.
Personalized Engagement
- Prayer Requests and Encouragement: Members can reply with prayer requests, allowing the church to provide personal spiritual support.
- Targeted Groups: Messages can be tailored to specific groups (e.g., youth ministry, small groups, or choir members), making communication relevant and impactful.
Reaching a Larger Audience
- Broad Reach: Text messaging is used by people of all ages.
- Youth: For younger audiences, text messaging may be THE most important way to reach them.
Simpler and Shorter Messages
- Simple Messages: Text messages are much shorter than an email prompting higher open (and read) rates.
- Relevant Links: Even though text messages are short, they can includes web page links to allow people to register for an event.
Simplified Overall Church Management
- Volunteers: Churches can send mass messages to recruit volunteers for specific roles or events and to notify them of upcoming commitments.
- Giving: Texts with donation links can remind members about opportunities to their church.
Tips for Effective Church Texting
- Keep it Concise: Ensure messages are concise and focused.
- Maintain Consent: Always get permission from recipients to receive texts and include an opt-out for those who don’t want to receive additional messages.
- Be Respectful of Timing: Avoid sending messages too early or late in the day. Or on key holidays. You should be able to schedule when a message is sent.
- Use a Consistent Voice: Ensure the tone aligns with the church’s values and mission. The phrase “too many cooks in the kitchen” can be true in many cases. Make sure the person or persons putting together messaging at your church do so in similar ways.
- Include a call to action: A call to action ensures your message is “important” and vital to both the church and to the recipient.
