Short answerMembers who ignore email often answer a short text. Use two-way texting for time-sensitive asks, keep surveys to one question, pair messages with worksite contacts, and save every reply to the member record so organizers know who is engaged.
Ask one thing at a time
A text that asks one clear question, like whether a member can attend Thursday’s meeting, gets far more replies than a newsletter. Save longer updates for the app or the website and link to them.
Make replies count
A reply is information. When it lands on the member record, the union learns something:
- Who is ready to act, and who needs a conversation.
- Which worksites or units are quiet.
- Which contact details are out of date.
Pair digital with people
Texts open the door; stewards and organizers walk through it. Give them a short list of members who have not replied, by worksite, so the next conversation happens in person.