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Merge Tag - First Name

Personalize SMS messages you send to your subscribers by including their first names. Learn more about this text message marketing feature.

Judd Bobin avatar
Written by Judd Bobin
Updated over a week ago

Enhancing the personal touch in your messages can significantly boost engagement. One effective way to achieve this is by incorporating first names using merge tags. Here’s how you can personalize your messages with the first name merge tag in Tatango.

Getting Started with First Name Data:

  • Collect First Names: Ensure Tatango has access to your subscribers' first names, which can be gathered through a double opt-in process or via website integration.

  • Alternative Data Collection: You can also add first names to your subscriber list through an import if the data wasn't collected during initial opt-in.

Using the First Name Merge Tag:

  1. Insert Merge Tag: When drafting your message, include the {First_Name} merge tag where you want the subscriber’s first name to appear.

  2. Set a Fallback: Configure a fallback term, such as "friend," to be used if the first name data is missing. This ensures the message remains personable and engaging.

Finalizing and Testing Your Message:

  • Review Merge Data: After composing your message, click ‘View Merge Data’ at the bottom of the preview to check that the merge tag integrates seamlessly into your message.

  • Test the Message: Always send a test message to verify that the first name appears correctly and that the fallback operates as intended.

  • Send, Schedule, or Save: Once testing is complete and you’re satisfied with the setup, proceed to send immediately, schedule for later, or save your draft.

Additional Notes:

  • Usage Limitations: Note that merge tags are primarily functional in scheduled messages and may not work in opt-in messages, system messages, etc.

  • Learn More: For detailed guidelines and more insights on using merge tags effectively, visit Using Merge Tags in Tatango.

By following these steps, you can create more personalized and engaging communications tailored to each subscriber, enhancing the overall impact of your messaging campaigns.

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