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Does Free Sound Too Cheap ? The Adverse Effect of a Randomized Text Message Campaign on Program Take-up

Author

Listed:
  • Annan,Jeannie
  • Mousson Estelle Jamel Koussoube
  • Josephine Tassy
  • Lea Marie Rouanet
  • Clara Delavallade
  • Evans,David

Abstract

This study conducted a randomized experiment to improve participation in a youth employment program in Côte d'Ivoire by testing text message outreach methods. Sending text messages highlighting that the program was free only to eligible youth had no impact, but messages sent to both youth and trusted contacts led to reduced enrollment. This negative effect was smaller for women, and null when their contact was also female. Qualitative findings suggest that distrust among unfamiliar contacts contributed to this decline. The study highlights the importance of tailoring communication strategies in job training programs to increase effectiveness, considering recipients’ relationships and trust.

Suggested Citation

  • Annan,Jeannie & Mousson Estelle Jamel Koussoube & Josephine Tassy & Lea Marie Rouanet & Clara Delavallade & Evans,David, 2025. "Does Free Sound Too Cheap ? The Adverse Effect of a Randomized Text Message Campaign on Program Take-up," Policy Research Working Paper Series 11063, The World Bank.
    • Handle: RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:11063
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    5. Rodríguez, Catherine & Saavedra, Juan E., 2019. "The persistent effects of youth savings reminders: Experimental evidence from text-message campaigns in Colombia," Journal of Development Economics, Elsevier, vol. 139(C), pages 135-156.
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