When it comes to event marketing, ensuring your event reaches the right audience, generates buzz, and drives high attendance can be challenging. One of the most effective ways to reach your target audience instantly is through SMS marketing. With a 98% open rate, text messages are more likely to be seen and acted upon than emails, social media posts, or other forms of communication.
SMS allows event organizers to engage their audience in real-time and keep them updated with important information, ticket offers, event schedules, and more. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how you can use SMS marketing to successfully promote and engage attendees for your next event.
1. Send Event Invitations via SMS
SMS is an excellent channel for sending event invitations. With its high open rate and immediacy, SMS guarantees that your invitation will be seen. Whether you’re promoting a local concert, a charity gala, or a business conference, SMS makes it easy to deliver invitations directly to your audience’s phone.
Example:
“You’re invited to [Event Name]! Join us on [Date] at [Location] for an unforgettable experience. RSVP now: [Link].”
2. Offer Early Bird Discounts and Promotions
One of the most effective ways to boost early ticket sales for your event is by offering exclusive early bird discounts. SMS allows you to deliver these offers instantly and directly to your audience, creating a sense of urgency and encouraging them to act quickly.
Example:
“Hurry! Early bird tickets for [Event Name] are available now at 20% off. Don’t miss out! Use code EARLYBIRD at checkout: [Link].”
3. Send Event Reminders and Countdown Messages
As your event date approaches, it’s important to send timely reminders to ensure your audience doesn’t forget to attend. SMS is perfect for sending event reminders and countdown messages, ensuring your audience is engaged and excited leading up to the event.
Example:
“Reminder: [Event Name] is in 3 days! Don’t forget to RSVP and bring a friend. See you at [Location] on [Date]!”
4. Promote Last-Minute Tickets and Limited-Time Offers
If you have remaining tickets as the event date nears, SMS is a great tool for promoting last-minute sales or limited-time offers. The urgency of SMS messages will help drive immediate action, ensuring you fill all available spots.
Example:
“Last chance! Tickets for [Event Name] are selling fast. Get yours today: [Link].”
5. Send Real-Time Event Updates
During the event, SMS allows you to send real-time updates about the schedule, guest speakers, or any last-minute changes. Keeping attendees informed with real-time updates ensures they don’t miss out on important announcements or activities.
Example:
“The keynote speaker will begin in 10 minutes! Head over to [Room Name] for the best seat.”
6. Collect Feedback During and After the Event
Feedback is critical for improving future events, and SMS is a quick and effective way to collect it. By sending short surveys or questions via text, you can gather valuable insights from attendees on their experience, which can be used to enhance your next event.
Example:
“We’d love to hear your feedback! Please reply to this message with your feedback on [Event Name].”
7. Drive Social Media Engagement
Encourage attendees to share their event experience on social media by including hashtags or posting their photos and videos. SMS is an easy way to remind attendees to post about the event, helping to spread the word and build excitement for future events.
Example:
“Share your favorite moments from [Event Name] on Instagram with #OurEvent2024 for a chance to win exclusive prizes!”
8. Thank Attendees and Encourage Future Engagement
After your event ends, don’t forget to thank your attendees for participating. SMS is a great way to send a personalized thank-you message, which can help you strengthen your relationship with your audience. You can also use this opportunity to encourage them to sign up for future events or subscribe to your SMS list for ongoing updates.
Example:
“Thank you for attending [Event Name]! We hope you had an amazing time. Stay tuned for more events. Text JOIN to [Shortcode] to receive updates!”
9. Use SMS for Post-Event Content Sharing
After the event, send your attendees links to post-event content, such as videos, photos, or recordings. SMS makes it easy to share this content, and it provides a way for attendees to relive the experience and stay connected with your brand.
Example:
“Check out the highlights from [Event Name]! Watch the event recap video here: [Link].”
10. Build Your SMS Subscriber List for Future Events
Every event is an opportunity to grow your SMS subscriber list. Encourage your attendees to opt in for SMS updates by offering exclusive access to events, special offers, or early registration for campaigns. SMS is a great way to keep your supporters informed and engaged.
Best Practice: Promote your SMS opt-in on your website, social media platforms, and during events. Offer an incentive to encourage sign-ups, such as discounts, early access to tickets, or exclusive content.
Example:
“Text JOIN to [Shortcode] to join our SMS list and get exclusive offers and early access to special events!”
Conclusion
SMS marketing is an essential tool for promoting events, engaging attendees, and ensuring that your events are successful. By leveraging SMS to send invitations, promotions, real-time updates, and post-event content, you can create an engaging, seamless experience for your audience. Whether you’re promoting a conference, concert, or charity event, SMS marketing helps drive attendance, increase engagement, and ensure your events are memorable.
Ready to get started with SMS marketing for your events? Learn more about how Mobiniti’s SMS platform can help you create successful, high-impact campaigns
