Constant Tips: Can you add contacts without emails?

[Nick_S]

 Every Tuesday we'll share tips, tricks, and insights on using Constant Contact and online marketing

Contacts created in Constant Contact would usually need to have an email address associated with it. However, it was recently changed where you can upload a file of SMS-only contacts when adding new contacts to your account! So, if you're using SMS, check this out.

Make sure to take the time to format your file or spreadsheet before uploading it in your Constant Contact account.  

Use a compatible file type and organize the content without multiple tabs. Ensure your file has columns labeled "SMS phone number" and "SMS consent date." Contacts without a consent date will be marked as "SMS no permission set" and can't receive SMS campaigns until they opt-in.

Label other column headings for Constant Contact to recognize them. SMS-only contacts don't need an email address, but you can include other contact details and custom fields. Your file can also include tags.

Format SMS phone numbers and consent dates correctly to avoid import errors. In Excel, for example, format the SMS phone number field as "Phone Number" or "Text" for international numbers, and the SMS consent date field as "Date" or "Custom - General."

Plus, SMS-only contacts will not count towards the contact tier of your email marketing plan!