How to Set Up and Manage Custom Opt-In Keywords

Custom opt-in keywords allow you to personalize how fans subscribe to your messages. Instead of generic words like “START,” you can create something that fits your brand — like “JOIN”, “SIGNUP”, or “BACKSTAGE”.

Where to Find the Settings

  1. Log in to your Sonikit dashboard.

  2. Navigate to Messaging → Settings.

  3. Scroll to the section labeled Custom Opt-in Keywords.

Adding a Custom Keyword

  1. Click into the Keyword input.

  2. Enter a short word or phrase (maximum 10 characters) and press enter on your keyboard.

    • Example: JOIN, VIP, FANCLUB

  3. Repeat up to 5 times to add additional keywords.

  4. Click Save.

✅ Tip: Keep keywords simple and easy to remember. Avoid spaces or symbols.

Removing a Keyword

If you want to stop using a keyword:

  1. Go to Messaging → Settings → Custom Opt-in Keywords.

  2. Find the keyword you want to remove.

  3. Click the Remove (X) button next to it.

  4. Save your changes.

Once removed, fans can no longer use that keyword to opt in — but existing fans who joined through it will remain subscribed unless they opt out.

Managing Best Practices

  • Be concise: 4–8 characters is ideal.

  • Stay brand-consistent: use words your audience associates with you.

  • Avoid overlap: Don’t use “HELP” or “STOP” as they’re reserved for system responses.

  • Promote your keyword: Add “Text JOIN to 555-123-4567 to get updates!” to your social bios or website.

🚨 Important: If a fan was previously opted in for SMS messaging and then unsubscribes using an opt out keyword (like "STOP" or "CANCEL"), they must use a reserved opt-in keyword ("START" or "UNSTOP") to begin receiving messages again. This is a requirement by mobile carriers for fans who previously opted out of messaging.

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