Comments on: Christina’s Coffee Talk with Michael Schaffer

By: SMS Marketing: Trend or Trouble :PRBreakfastClub

SMS Marketing: Trend or Trouble :PRBreakfastClub — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 05:02:59 +0000

[...] campaign). In addition, you need to know how to reach them to promote it. In my coffee talk with Mike Schaffer, he explained a great SMS marketing plan takes time and effort to succeed. He found that when [...]

By: keithtrivitt

keithtrivitt — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:04:42 +0000

Actually, there are laws that govern how you can conduct a text message marketing plan. The laws are very similar to e-mail blast laws, and are frankly one of the biggest reasons why we have yet to see mass acceptance of text marketing. The laws are unbelievably cumbersome and outdated, and simply getting around them to develop a quality campaign can be a major inhibitor to some companies.

By: Mike Schaffer

Mike Schaffer — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:45:25 +0000

Right on, Lauren...it is something that people like, then quickly sour on. I haven't yet seen a sustainable SMS marketing program. And if it isn't sustainable, what's the point? (The one exception is a Baltimore sports news text messaging service I've had for a year or so. Even though I'm just an hour away from home, I need it to stay up to date!)

It can work as entertainment at concerts. I've been to a few arenas and venues where you can text messages to the jumbotron in between the action. It's a fun diversion, but I'm not convinced it's worth whatever they are paying for it...what's the return for them?

I really hope we as an industry can figure out ways to make SMS work as an effective marketing tool! Let's get on it! I'll bring the beer.

By: Mike Schaffer

Mike Schaffer — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:41:07 +0000

Hey, Jeff!

The power went out in my office as I was about to respond to you!

One of my closest friends is a minor league baseball radio announcer. I definitely understand the long days of doing EVERYTHING to make the game experience happen. You guys should get a medal!

#SportsPRChat is REALLY exciting! In just a short period of time, we've been able to start a sports PR community online. There are some incredible sharp people on there, and I hope you can join us!

I am always willing to chat about social media, sports, etc. My e-mail is michaelgschaffer@gmail.com.

By: Christina K

Christina K — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 22:12:13 +0000

Everyone thanks for the comments. I've been going back and forth with pros and cons of text message marketing so I was glad that Mike could give an example and some feedback.

I think that no matter what people need to be able to “opt in” and “opt out” this way companies aren't taking advantage of their consumers/customer.

By: laurenfernandez

laurenfernandez — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 21:41:35 +0000

The thing I hate about text marketing is that I've seen companies abuse it. How do you teach them? There aren't many 'rules' per say, but I can see people getting very turned off by it. They might do it one night, but hate it the next. So is it a waste of money? Something I've always wondered.

By: jeffespo

jeffespo — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 20:19:12 +0000

Great interview Christina. Mike, like Keith I came from a sports PR background, with about 6 years experience across a variety of leagues, as well and completely agree with the struggle for work-life balance.

My last job in sports was with a minor league baseball team and was the last straw into that field. Tarp pulls and 20 hour days kind of sucked.

I think your points on SMS marketing are also interesting. I will also definitely check out the hashtag chat you've set up.

Would you be willing to chat offline on some SM strategies?

By: keithtrivitt

keithtrivitt — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 20:04:42 +0000

By: Mike Schaffer

Mike Schaffer — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:45:25 +0000

By: Mike Schaffer

Mike Schaffer — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:41:07 +0000