Back in 2008, Barack Obama picked around three million Americans from Joe Biden’s side over a text message. It is said to be the most important text message in the history of the USA. Those contacts were then used to inform people, turn them to his side and organize meetings. His strong engagement through such media has put him in the White House.
At this point, there are obviously plenty of ideas regarding how politicians are using SMS to get people to vote, whether it comes to convincing them to vote, remembering them about this special day or even turning them on their side. Simply put, it makes no difference if one wants to be a president, a counselor or a mayor – it pays off staying connected with voters. Here is how texting can change the results.
Events
A campaign over text messages can help candidates organize events. This way, there will always be a bunch of people waiting outside and willing to chant. Sometimes, success is related to how many people a candidate can take outside or bring in a room. Inviting supporters to campaigns and meetings via text messages will keep the crowd nearby.
Volunteers
Volunteers represent an active part in a campaign, whether it comes to sharing flyers down the road or through post. Some others can also get signatures or perhaps get money from donations. If they cannot donate themselves, at least they can donate some of their time. Results in the long run will pay off, as they will do it for free.
Youth
The youth is more responsive when it comes to text messages. This is what many candidates focus on. After all, people between 18 and 35 are more likely to care because their future is on the table. Not everyone in their 60s knows how to read a text message. Plus, the youth tends to be more active as well, whether the candidate organizes meetings, concerts or other events.
Reminders
Reminders could go in a few different directions and represent some of the best ideas on how politicians are using SMS to get people to vote. For instance, candidates will often send texts on the election date. Some of them may not be too connected to the news or get engaged with other activities. A friendly reminder will ensure everyone knows about the day.
The text message could also include some important information, such as closing times for polls, not to mention a link to finding the closest polling place. Any type of information will be useful.
Reminders may also target events, meetings and rallies. It pays off reminding local citizens about a meeting in their town. Plus, some people are not even registered to vote – reminding them to do it will help them exercise their right.
Announcements
It is said that 90% of all text messages are read within the first three minutes. Those with important announcements to make must be heard straight away. Some of the people may not be too bothered with the TV or the news, not to mention those in work. At this point, a text message will ensure everyone knows what is going on.
Providing details in politics requires lots of care and attention. A strong message is different from a simple conference or meeting, so it has to be heard. Some ideas of political announcements include updates on the election day, highlights or even reminders.
Rules and regulations
Every country has its own rules, yet some of them are general. For example, people must have the option to unsubscribe whenever they want to. They need an option to stop text messages – which is likely to happen if politicians exaggerate with random news or do it too often.
Other than that, buying numbers or contacts from various companies and texting them without consent is illegal in most of the western world. Furthermore, each country has specific rules throughout the campaign.
Final words
Bottom line, learning how politicians are using SMS to get people to vote can help candidates make more informed decisions. While the process must be carefully planned and crafted, doing it right could make the difference once the polling places close.
