Text Messaging

Text messages resonate with students, especially when it comes to reminders about deadlines and critical actions. However, it’s essential that these messages are concise and relevant to avoid being perceived as spam. Text messaging should complement other communication methods, such as emails and phone calls, and is reserved for timely and essential updates that directly support student success.

Best Practices for Text Messaging

• Opt-in required: Only students who have opted in to receive texts should be contacted in this way.
• Consider your audience: Tailor message length, type, and timing to fit the audience and platform constraints.
• Balance your tone: Maintain a tone that is both personal and professional.
• Be respectful of people’s schedules: Avoid sending texts too early or late in the day, and respect weekends and holidays unless urgent.
• Keep messages brief and focused: Limit content to essential information and use clear, direct language.
• Include preferred names: Always address students by their preferred first name.
• Identify sender: Clearly identify yourself or your academic unit in the message for easy recognition.
• Avoid text speak: Do not use abbreviations or informal language (e.g., “idk,” “lol”).
• Timely responses: If students reply to a text, the sender must respond promptly.
• Use shortened URLs: If including a URL, work with the Web team to create a shortened, branded link.
• Adhere to length guidelines: Keep texts concise and never send more than one message at a time.

When to Send a Mass Text

Text messaging should support established communication plans, primarily executed through email. To prevent oversaturation, use text messaging only after other means of communication have proven ineffective, or to reinforce critical timely messages.

• Use for Critical Actions: Texts should inform students about mandatory or critically important actions related to their application, enrollment, and graduation that remain incomplete.
• Opt-In Requirement: Messages should only be sent to students who have opted in to receive text messages.

Examples

• Brown Dawg, it’s your SIU advisor, Shelly. You’re eligible to enroll next semester, but you have a hold preventing registration. Check your student portal for details.
• Brown Dawg, this is SIU Bursar. The payment due date is approaching. Please pay your outstanding balance or your classes may be dropped.
• Brown Dawg, the last day to add classes is Friday, Oct. 25. You’re eligible but haven’t registered yet—don’t miss out!
• Hi Brown Dawg! It’s Taylor, your SIU Carbondale Admissions Coordinator. Did you know you can apply to SIU for FREE right now? Visit admissions.siu.edu/apply!