In the fast-paced world of recruitment, connecting with potential candidates through text messages has become a valuable tool for hiring companies. Text messaging offers a quick and efficient way to engage with candidates, provide updates, and build rapport throughout the hiring process. However, to ensure that this communication method remains effective and compliant with regulations, hiring companies must prioritize 10-DLC (10-Digit Long Code) compliance. In this blog, we will explore what 10-DLC compliance entails and why it is essential for hiring companies to maintain best practices when texting candidates.

 

What is it?

A2P 10DLC refers to a system in the United States that allows businesses to send Application-to-Person (A2P) type messaging via standard 10-digit long code (10DLC) phone numbers. Carriers’ A2P 10DLC offerings provide better delivery quality and lower filtering risk than long code SMS of the past, using the same phone numbers.

 

How does it work?

There are two important requirements under the new A2P 10DLC system:

• Businesses must identify who they are to the carrier networks (Brand registration).
• Businesses must register what type of messages they are sending, i.e. application status updates (Campaign registration).

 

Who needs to register?

You’ll need to register if you’re planning on sending text messages to candidates in the US. Effective August 31, 2023, all businesses leveraging Grayscale to communicate must be fully registered before you can begin texting – any messages attempted will be blocked.

 

The Specifics:

Part 1 – Brand Registration

1. It registers the phone numbers you’re using back to your brand so US Carriers know you’re a legitimate business.
2. It assigns a Trust Score to your brand using a reputation algorithm – the bigger your brand and the greater your market presence, the higher your trust score is bound to be and, thus, a higher messaging throughput (or MPS)
3. Messaging throughput is measured in message segments per second (MPS) – again, the higher your Trust Score, the higher your messaging throughput is going to be – the more messages you can send at once!

Part 2 – Campaign Registration

For our purposes, your “campaign” is your use-case. Since Grayscale is a high volume hiring tool, your use-case is essentially to engage with candidates throughout the application or hiring process. You may also be communicating with current employees and that is a-ok too!

By submitting your campaign registration, you’ll be providing all US Carrier Networks with an overview of what you’ll be using Grayscale for. Here are the things they’re looking for:

1. Consistency in brand, website and sample messages
2. Consumer consent is being collected appropriately – The call-to-action must be explicitly clear and inform end users of the use-case.
   1. I.e. End users opt-in by visiting [www.grayscaleapp.com] to apply for a position with [Grayscale App]. Applications include the following question:
      OPT-IN FOR TEXT MESSAGES | Would you like to Opt-in to receive text messages about jobs at [Grayscale App]? Please answer with Yes or No.
   2. If you indicate that opt-in is collected through a paper form or behind a login, please provide a hosted link to the image of your opt-in form.
   3. If you indicate that a website is used for opt-in, please provide a link to the website. The website needs to have Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

 

In Conclusion

Text messaging has revolutionized the way we hire and interact with candidates; however, to maintain its effectiveness and adhere to today’s legal requirements, you must prioritize 10-DLC compliance. By obtaining consent, crafting relevant messages, respecting candidates’ preferences, and safeguarding their data, you not only protect your company’s good reputation but also demonstrate respect for your candidates throughout the hiring process.