VERSE’S POLICY REGARDING OPT-OUT LANGUAGE
For the first message you send to an individual, it's important to include an opt-out option, such as "Reply STOP to unsubscribe," or a similar standard opt-out keyword like REMOVE, CANCEL, END, or QUIT. Individuals will then always have the ability to easily opt-out by replying with any of these opt-out keywords. When someone chooses to opt out, a final message confirming their opt-out is sent, but no further messages are permitted. To start receiving messages again, the individual must reply with "START."
EXAMPLES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The language and phrases you use are completely customizable, as long as the messages meet the basic spirit of the requirement: informing the consumer how to easily “opt-out” of text messaging with the use of a keyword.
To accommodate these new policies, Verse has developed two core “opt-out” language strategies:
APPROACH 1: THE DOUBLE TEXT
Best for Live Prospect Campaigns
In the example below, ABC Realty’s first text includes the “opt-out” language, followed by an “opening text” ~45 seconds later. Our favorite part about this strategy is the 2nd text: Although still automated, it feels authentic and human. This technique yields increased response rates and higher-quality interactions overall (compared to a standard opening text without opt-out language).
APPROACH 2: THE APPENDED TEXT
Best for Database Campaigns
In example #2, ABC Turf uses a more standard approach by appending the “opt-out” language to the end of the opening text. Sure, it’s simple and quick, but it feels more automated and robotic than the double text strategy. Keep in mind, that there are some use-cases where the appended “opt-out” language is warranted. For example, Verse Revive campaigns enable businesses to follow up with previously unresponsive prospects or automate follow-up texts based on certain CRM signals. In these situations, a consumer isn’t inquiring about something in real-time or expecting any outreach, in which case the appended text approach is less more warranted.