In our webinar, “GOTV During COVID-19: Driving Voter Turnout with SMS,” we shared expert advice and best practices for effectively using SMS within your Get Out the Vote (GOTV) strategy.
Of course, during a busy election season, it can be hard to find time for anything, let alone watching a webinar. That’s why we’ve compiled 5 takeaways from our webinar. Here are 5 things to know as you look to maximize voter and volunteer participation this year.
1) Make sure voters have the knowledge they need.
It’s no secret that the Covid-19 pandemic has had a lasting effect on elections. For one, voting by mail has played an important role. In some states have passed or proposed new rules in 2021 that may affect absentee and/or early voting. Your GOTV text campaigns should connect voters with the information they need. This may include targeted messaging with state-specific registration deadlines. You can also use text messaging to help in-person voters find their polling location, stay on top of deadlines, and make a plan to vote.
Get your supporters to the polls with our Polling Place Locator – find out more here.
2) Accuracy is critical in GOTV campaigns.
Text messaging is an ideal channel for delivering important information quickly, but don’t sacrifice accuracy for speed! You have a responsibility to provide error-free information. Delivering inaccurate information could cause people to miss their chance to make their voice heard.
Remember: voting deadlines, guidelines, and procedures all vary from state to state. While you’re double-checking your messaging for typos, make sure the information is up-to-date and 100% correct. If you have a legal team, run your messaging by your lawyers.
3) Know your mobile audience.
Text messaging cuts across age groups and demographics to connect you with voters in a way that other channels can’t. For messaging to resonate with subscribers, you must know your audience and craft your content accordingly.
For instance, this is especially important when it comes to language barriers. If you have a large Spanish-speaking audience, make sure you provide them with options to receive Spanish-language messaging.
4) Listen to your audience.
Don’t forget: text messaging is a two-way channel!
As you provide voters with information, they may have further questions. While automated campaigns can provide some answers, it’s important to monitor responses and reply manually if necessary. During an election, this can help you get more voters to the polls. It can also give subscribers an outlet to report potential problems at the polls.
Check with your SMS provider to see if they have solutions for efficient two-way communication. Upland Mobile Messaging customers use Agent View to engage in one-on-one conversations with ease.
5) Continue to follow up with mobile subscribers.
Your messaging efforts shouldn’t end when subscribers cast their ballot. As tempting as it may be to ease up after a long election season, your work is never done – after all, you’ve got year-end fundraising right around the corner!
After Election Day, thank your subscribers for voting, then start implementing ways to keep your list engaged. Over the course of the election season, you’ll likely grow your mobile list with new subscribers who are eager to help your cause. Make sure you continue to provide these dedicated citizens with the next action to take – whether that’s the next election, next piece of legislation, or next cause to support.
Let us help you find out how you can use SMS messaging to improve your GOTV strategy today – get in touch or sign up for a demo.