What is non-handset opt-in?

A non-handset opt-in is a method of obtaining explicit consent from your audience to receive short code text messages from your business, such as promotional offers, discounts, and updates. This method requires recipients to opt in by using any method not covered by handset opt-in, which involves sending a keyword from a mobile device or opting in through a mobile app.

For example, with non-handset opt-in, your audience can give their consent by making a verbal agreement, filling out a paper form, or signing up on your website.

Non-handset opt-in is especially important for Canadian short codes since the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation requires businesses to obtain explicit consent before sending commercial electronic messages.

How to set up a non-handset opt-in

  1. Choose a marketing automation platform: Select a platform that offers pre-built sign-up form templates, data collection and management tools, and automated messaging capabilities. 
  2. Create a sign-up form: Design and customize a non-handset opt-in form with fields for collecting phone numbers, names, email addresses, and other relevant information.  
  3. Set up data management: Integrate the opt-in form with your CRM, customer database, or email marketing platform to securely manage and store customer data.  
  4. Create automated messaging: Set up automated welcome messages, opt-in confirmations, and other triggered messages to engage with recipients and build rapport.
  5. Promote your opt-in form: Use social media, landing pages, email newsletters, and pop-up ads to promote your non-handset opt-in form to potential subscribers. If you have a physical store, display the form at checkout or send it out with purchases.  
  6. Monitor and measure opt-in success: Track form completion rates, opt-in confirmations, and other metrics to assess the effectiveness of your non-handset opt-in strategy. Use this data to make improvements and optimize your marketing initiatives.

5 tips for successful non-handset opt-ins

  1. Be transparent about the type and frequency of messages your subscribers receive to set expectations and maintain transparency.
  2. Provide a special discount, freebie, or exclusive content to incentivize people to subscribe. 
  3. Incorporate a double opt-in process to ensure subscribers are actively consenting and prevent spam complaints.
  4. Include an easy opt-out option in every message to give people control over their subscription and maintain a positive brand reputation.  
  5. Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, such as the Telephone Consumer Protection Act.

If you’re ready to design and implement an effective non-handset opt-in strategy, sign up for Klaviyo. As a robust marketing automation platform, Klaviyo lets you create mobile-friendly sign-up forms, import and segment customer data, and integrate with platforms like Olark, Swym, and Maisie for seamless mobile marketing

Additional resources