Keyword Opt-Ins for Lead Capture
TL;DR:
- Keyword opt-ins let people join your list by texting a word to your number
- Perfect for events, shops, social media, and anywhere you need quick signups
- Pick memorable keywords and write clear auto-replies that deliver on your promises
- Always include opt-out instructions and be upfront about what they're signing up for
- Track performance through your messaging platform's analytics
Keyword opt-ins are one of the simplest ways to capture leads through SMS. Someone sees your promotion, texts a word to your number, and they're instantly on your list. No forms to fill out, no email addresses to type.
How to Set Up Your Keyword Campaign
Pick Your Keyword
Choose something people can remember and spell easily. "JOIN" works well for general signups. "SALE20" makes sense for discount campaigns. Avoid anything with numbers and letters mixed together – people get confused when they're typing quickly.
Your messaging platform will let you set up multiple keywords, so you can run different campaigns and track which ones perform best.
Write Your Auto-Reply
This message goes out immediately when someone texts your keyword. Keep it short and deliver what you promised. If your poster said "Text PIZZA for 20% off", your reply needs to include that discount code.
Include these basics:
- Thanks for joining
- What they signed up for (discount, updates, etc.)
- How often you'll message them
- How to opt out (usually "Reply STOP to unsubscribe")
Promote Your Campaign
Put your keyword everywhere your audience hangs out. Shop windows, event banners, Instagram stories, business cards. The key is making it visible where people are already looking.
Keep the call-to-action simple: "Text STYLE to 07XXX XXX XXX for exclusive offers."
Getting the Legal Bits Right
You need clear consent before messaging anyone. This means being upfront about what they're signing up for and how often you'll contact them.
Your auto-reply should confirm what they've joined. Something like: "Welcome! You'll get our weekly deals every Friday. Reply STOP anytime to unsubscribe."
The opt-out mechanism is legally required. Most platforms handle "STOP" commands automatically, but check your setup works properly before going live.
Where Keyword Opt-Ins Work Best
Events and Trade Shows
Much easier than collecting business cards or setting up tablets. People can join your list while walking past your stand.
Retail Locations
Counter displays or window stickers catch people when they're already interested in your products.
Social Media
Instagram stories, Facebook posts, and TikTok videos can drive quick signups without sending people away from the platform.
Print Advertising
Flyers, business cards, and local newspaper ads work well because texting is easier than visiting websites on mobile.
Tracking What Works
Your messaging platform should show you:
- How many people used each keyword
- When signups happen (useful for timing future campaigns)
- Which keywords get the most engagement after signup
Use different keywords for different promotion channels. "FACEBOOK" for social media campaigns, "SHOP" for in-store displays. This tells you where your best customers come from.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't pick keywords other businesses might use. "SALE" could get confusing if people text the wrong number.
Avoid promising things you can't deliver immediately. If someone expects a discount code, send it in that first auto-reply message.
Keep your keyword active. Nothing frustrates people more than texting a keyword and getting no response because you forgot to renew your campaign.
FAQs
How quickly do people receive the auto-reply message?
It should be instant. If there's a delay, check your platform settings or contact support.
Can I change my keyword once the campaign is running?
Most platforms let you add new keywords, but don't remove active ones without warning your audience first.
What happens if someone texts the wrong thing to my number?
Set up a default auto-reply for unrecognised messages. Something like "Thanks for your message. For offers, text JOIN. For support, call [number]."
How many keywords can I run at once?
This depends on your platform, but most allow multiple keywords. Just make sure you can track and manage them all properly.
Jargon Buster
Keyword: The word people text to join your list (like "JOIN" or "SALE")
Auto-Reply: The automatic message sent back when someone uses your keyword
Opt-Out: The process for unsubscribing, usually by replying "STOP"
Short Code: A 5-digit number used for high-volume messaging (alternative to regular mobile numbers)
Wrap-up
Keyword opt-ins remove friction from the signup process. People can join your list in seconds, which means more signups and better conversion rates than traditional forms.
The setup is straightforward, but success comes from choosing the right keywords, writing clear auto-replies, and promoting consistently across all your channels. Start with one simple campaign and expand once you see what works for your audience.
Learn about QuickSMS: https://www.quicksms.com/