It’s no secret that today’s en vogue marketing strategy is digital. TV, radio, print—everything has moved to the online realm.

Savvy marketers love connecting with larger audiences online, although they’re often missing one critical piece of the puzzle: mobile marketing.

Many marketers neglect mobile marketing, but it’s a booming channel projected to snowball in the coming years.

In 2017 alone the US had over 266 million mobile phone users. By 2020 that number is expected to nearly double.

Today is the day to start targeting these users to stay ahead of the curve.

Not everyone uses mobile marketing, but it’s a crucial way to get more business. In fact, mobile marketing has a higher response rate than email marketing and direct advertising.

Why put your efforts into other channels when you can do mobile marketing for real results?

Use these three strategies to beef up your mobile list in a hurry.

Give value

You can build your list by simply asking people to opt in.

For example, it’s common to see “Text HELLO to 123456 to join our list!” on company websites or events.

But does this multiply your list growth quickly?

No, because customers are always asking, “Why?”

Why should someone sign up to be on your mobile list? Why should they give you access to their personal phone number? They don’t get anything from that relationship, and the opt-in is a much harder sell.

However, when you give value to a customer’s opt-in, the “why” is inherent. You’re giving the customer something beneficial in exchange for their information, so both parties benefit.

Let’s go beyond sending subscribers a simple text update. You can create value with any of these three tactics.

1. Coupons

The old-fashioned coupon is still popular for a big reason: everybody likes free stuff!

Coupons are a tried and true way to build your list with little work. Customers immediately get value when they subscribe to your list; for them, it’s a no-brainer.

Try offering coupons for discounted product, birthday freebies, and BOGOs.

2. Loyalty programs

Everybody wants to feel special. Build a closer relationship with your customers through an environment of exclusivity that creates value.

The best way to do this is with a loyalty program. Give your loyalty members access to exclusive content, products, sales, or coupons when they enroll in your mobile list.

3. Contests

There’s no better way to build excitement and hype for your list than offering a contest.

Mind you, the prize should be something buzz-worthy and on brand; a pack of Post-its isn’t going to cut it.

Give your customers the option to gain more entries by subscribing to your mobile list, as well as gaining additional entries every time they invite a friend to join.

You’ll see rapid list growth in no time.

Magnify multichannel

Some marketers talk about true multichannel marketing like it’s an elusive unicorn. Luckily, your search ends here. You can implement a multichannel strategy with your mobile list and careful planning.

You can easily build your mobile list (with qualified leads, no less) through a multichannel approach. You can combine your mobile list with print and social media channels, for example.

Let’s say your client owns a dog grooming service. You send a direct mail piece to potential customers with a link to a digital coupon. The customers can then opt in to your mobile list to earn a free session by texting you a cute photo of their pet.

This lets you interact with customers in a more authentic, meaningful way that builds your list.  

Get social

With social justice, that is. Businesses are in the business of making a living, but we know they’re more than that: they’re change-makers on the local and national scale.

It’s time to get vocal about social issues with your platform. As an added bonus, you’ll see tremendous list growth comprised of impassioned, action-oriented customers.

The best way to grow your mobile list with social movements is to tie it to an opt-in.

For example, when same-sex marriage wasn’t legal in all US states, some wedding companies urged customers to sign a petition via mobile opt-in. Some companies even gave you the option to email your elected representatives from a simple text opt-in.

Connect more deeply with your customers over a shared concern, all while growing your mobile list.

The bottom line

Whether you’re using it now or not, mobile marketing is poised to explode by 2020.

Don’t give yourself a late start; stay ahead of your competition by starting your list building activities now. Become an expert at SMS marketing with enticing, value-laden opt-ins your customers can’t resist.