1) Fast Communication
It is no secret that we live in a fast-paced world. And as a church leader, it can often feel like it's even faster. As the saying goes, “Sunday is always coming.”
When sending out important information that needs to be acknowledged and understood quickly, Mass Texting shines.
Did you know? An astounding 90% of text messages are opened in 15 minutes. 98% are opened overall! *
So, when an event gets rained out, a small group needs to cancel, or Sunday morning service times are changed, your first option should be sending out a Mass Text.
* Christianity Today: 98% Open Rate. That's Why Churches Are Switching to Text.
2) Widespread Audience
Using email, a 35-40% open rate is considered “very good.” However, as stated above 98% of text messages are opened overall*. It should also be noted that 98% of US adults own a cell phone**. So, while an email might be a good 2nd or 3rd option when communicating essential or time-sensitive information, sending a text message gives you the best chance of success.
**Pew Research Center: Mobile Fact Sheet
3) Keyword Texting
Keyword Texting gives you and your congregation the tools to immediately respond when they are the most engaged. For example, users can send “Prayer” and can have a Prayer Request Form sent to them! Keyword Texts can be used to give, sign up for events, or request more information. Customization is easy, and they should be easily recognizable for the campaign or purpose you use them. Learn more about Keyword Texting!
Note: Keyword Texting is only available through our integrated Giving software.
4) Targeted and Concise Messages
You are allowed up to 140 characters per message. Rather than seeing this as a limitation, look at it as an opportunity for you and your team to be concise in your messaging.
To ensure your text is simple and on-target, ask yourself these questions:
- What is the MOST crucial information my people need to know?
- How do we want them to interact with that information?
- How do we make the CTA (Call to Action) easily accessible?
Within our Mass Contact tool is a Link Shortener. As the name implies use it to shorten links to maximize your character count. For example, shorten the link to a Form URL and easily use text to promote registration!
5) Relevant To Your Audience
Gen-Z and Millennials are the largest group of active texters. These two demographics span from their mid-teens to into 40's.
Why should you care? This wildly important age group is the future of the church. Regardless of our personal feelings about texting, it's crucial we engage them using the communication mediums they prefer.
For example, 74% of Millennials list texting as their preferred communication method***, and when millennials were asked about receiving texts from organizations, 40% said they are more likely to act, and 62% said they are helpful reminders*.
Utilizing text messages in your church is a guaranteed way to improve your communication, especially within this age group, so why not try it?
***Messente: Why Millennials Prefer Texting
Summary: Mass texting is one of your most powerful ministry communication tools. Moreover, a regular cadence of personalized and directed SMS messages can significantly improve weekly ministry engagement.
Now you know Why you should be using Mass Texting.
Continue to Part 2 of this article so you can see How it can be used to keep you and your church connected!
Mass Texting Use Cases for Ministry Engagement
Updated