Get Set Up & Ready to Launch
Before you can start sending text messages, you’ll need to complete a few simple setup steps to ensure your account is configured correctly, your subscriber list is ready, and you’re following compliance regulations.
This article will walk you through the essentials.
Step 1: Set Up Your Account
Start by making sure your account settings are complete and accurate.
Log in to your Tatango account → Login
Go to My Account > Account Settings
Update your Personal Information
Set your Time Zone and enable Two-Factor Authentication (recommended)
Add additional users under Users & Permissions
User Permission Levels:
Admin – Full access, including billing and account settings.
Manager – Can manage campaigns, but cannot access users, billing, or API settings.
Limited Manager – Can manage only campaigns assigned to them, no access to account settings.
Step 2: Upload Your Subscriber List
To send messages, you’ll need a list of subscribers who have opted in to receive your text messages.
How to upload your list:
Prepare your subscriber list as a CSV file
Include at minimum: phone number, first name, last name (optional), email (optional)
Ensure your list only includes subscribers who have given consent to receive messages
Go to Subscribers > Import > Select Import
Follow the on-screen instructions to map fields and upload your list
Resources:
Step 3: Add Your First Keyword
Keywords make it easy for supporters to opt in to your text messages. When someone texts your keyword to your short code, they’ll be automatically added to your subscriber list. You can create one or multiple keywords to grow your list and track different campaigns.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Adding Keywords:
Select Your List
Log in to your Tatango account and navigate to your dashboard.
Click on the list name or select the Manage button for the list you wish to modify.
Configure Keywords
Click Settings in the right-hand menu, then select Mobile Opt-In from the dropdown.
Click the + icon next to your current keyword to add a new keyword.
Enter your new keyword in the open field. Repeat this process to add multiple keywords.
Save Your Changes
Once you've added all desired keywords, click Save Changes at the bottom of the screen to apply your updates.
Why use keywords?
Quickly grow your subscriber list at events, online, or during campaigns
Track where subscribers are opting in from (e.g., social media, website, in-person events)
Make it easy for supporters to join your list with a simple text message
For example, Text SUCCESS to 800-800 for product updates, tips, and tricks.
By participating, you agree to the terms & privacy policy for recurring autodialed marketing messages from Tatango to the phone number you provide. No consent required to buy. Msg&data rates may apply.
Step 4: Review Compliance Essentials
Text message marketing is regulated. It’s important to understand and follow compliance best practices to protect your organization and maintain trust with your supporters.
Key compliance guidelines:
Consent: You must have explicit opt-in consent from every subscriber
Opt-Out Language: Every message must include clear instructions to opt out. We append this to every message.
Proper Identification: Include your organization’s name at the beginning of every message
Respect Messaging Rules: Follow TCPA, carrier, and country-specific guidelines
What’s Next
Once your account is set up and your subscriber list is ready, you’re ready to start messaging.
Continue to Step 2 → How to Create & Send Your First Message