Expert Answer • 2 min read

Should I collect phone numbers or just emails?

As an e-commerce business owner, I'm trying to optimize my customer data collection strategy. I want to improve my marketing reach and customer communication, but I'm uncertain whether collecting phone numbers provides significant advantages over email collection. What are the pros and cons of collecting phone numbers versus email addresses? Are there specific scenarios where phone numbers become more valuable, or should I stick to email communication?
Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Founder & CEO

2 min

TL;DR - Quick Answer

Collect both phone numbers and emails. Phone numbers enable SMS marketing and faster communication, while emails remain essential for detailed marketing campaigns. Use optional collection with clear value propositions to increase voluntary submission rates.

Complete Expert Analysis

Strategic Customer Contact Information Collection

Understanding the nuanced benefits of phone number and email collection can transform your customer communication and marketing effectiveness.

Comparative Analysis: Phone vs Email Collection

ChannelProsConsBest Use Cases
Phone Number• Immediate communication
• High open/read rates
• Personal connection
• Privacy concerns
• Lower voluntary submission
• Potential spam perception
Order updates, urgent notifications, flash sales
Email• Rich content delivery
• Cost-effective
• Wide acceptance
• Lower immediate open rates
• More competitive inbox
• Potential spam filtering
Newsletters, detailed promotions, long-form content

Optimal Collection Strategies

1. Integrated Collection Approach

  • Make both fields optional during checkout
  • Clearly communicate value propositions
  • Offer incentives for voluntary submission

2. Transparent Value Exchange

  • Explain specific benefits of sharing contact info
  • Guarantee privacy and no spam
  • Provide immediate tangible rewards

Recommended Implementation Tactics

Phone Number Strategies

  • Offer SMS order tracking
  • Provide exclusive SMS flash sales
  • Enable two-factor authentication
  • Create loyalty program SMS updates

Email Collection Best Practices

  • Segment email lists precisely
  • Personalize email content
  • Implement automated email flows
  • Create re-engagement campaigns

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Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Founder & CEO of Growth Suite

With over a decade of experience in e-commerce optimization, Muhammed founded Growth Suite to help Shopify merchants maximize their conversion rates through intelligent behavior tracking and personalized offers. His expertise in growth strategies and conversion optimization has helped thousands of online stores increase their revenue.

E-commerce Expert Shopify Partner Growth Strategist

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