Workforce Organization Redefining Job Seeker Engagement through Text Messaging

Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas is spearheading a new era of job seeker engagement by leveraging the power of text message alerts. With over 2 million text messages to job seekers across four counties sent in the first half of 2023 and an opt-out rate of less than 1%, the organization has achieved remarkable results. This innovative communication approach is revolutionizing how job seekers and employers connect.

Embracing Texting as the Preferred Communication Medium:

Recognizing the strong preference for texting among their users, Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas has wholeheartedly embraced this medium. Workforce Development Consultant Stephanie Ruppel attributes the success of texting to its user-driven approach, “People want to be texted today, not called.” 

The most common job alerts sent are career fair or workshop reminders and job opening updates. Prior to an event an average of 3 text messages are sent: three days before, the day before, and the day of the event. This proactive and timely approach ensures that job seekers receive relevant information and stay engaged throughout the process.

User-Centric Approach and Collaboration with Employers:

Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas understands that people today prefer text messages over phone calls, allowing for better engagement and connection. “Think about how you react when you get a phone call, and how you react when you get a text.” Stephanie goes on to explain why she believes every workforce development organization should be using the tool, “It's easier for staff to do, it's stuff you can automate, it's just a win-win. It makes no sense not to do it.”

Text messages are primarily sent by case managers, but even executive-level staff contribute to the communication efforts. Moreover, the organization extends its services to employers by using their text message campaigns to reach potential candidates effectively.

Expanding the Subscriber Base:

To expand their subscriber base, Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas employs two key strategies. First, they have a job alerts opt-in form on their website, allowing individuals to voluntarily sign up for job alerts. Second, they utilize a state-run job bank called Work in Texas, where individuals who have granted permission to be contacted become part of the organization's notification lists. These methods ensure a growing and engaged subscriber base of over 23,000 job seekers.

Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas is setting the standard for job seeker engagement by embracing text message alerts. Their success lies in recognizing the preference for texting, adopting a user-centric approach, and collaborating with employers. By leveraging text messages, they provide timely updates and streamline communication. As other organizations seek to enhance their engagement strategies, they can look to Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas as a prime example of success in job seeker communication.

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