If you’re looking for a great bang for your small business’ advertising buck, you can’t beat email marketing. It’s a cost-effective solution that actually works…provided that it’s done correctly. And it all starts with your subscriber list.
Some small businesses purchase email address lists, but this is often akin to buying DVDs from a shady character in a dark alley. In other words, it’s a bad decision. Why waste your time, energy and money marketing to people who have no interest in receiving your small business’ emails?
Instead, you need to build your own “clean” email list that includes people who’ve made it clear that they want to receive your message. But how do you find these people, and more importantly, how do you get them to give up the goods (a.k.a. their email address)?
1. Bribery Works.
In these days of spam and scams, people are more hesitant than ever to hand over their email addresses. We can’t blame them – we don’t like spending our mornings eye-deep in junk mail, either. However, most humans aren’t opposed to a bit of bribery.
Offer email subscribers a discount, a free consultation or a chance to win a prize in exchange for their information. When people feel like they’re getting something out of the deal, they’ll be more inclined to opt in.
2. Show Off the Goods.
Too many email subscribers have been burned by bad email marketing tactics, so make it clear what your subscribers can expect from you. How many emails will they get each week? Can they subscribe to your monthly newsletter without also subscribing to your daily blasts? Will you keep their information safe?
Letting people know what they’re signing up for is one of the best ways to get (and keep) your subscribers. If possible, archive your previous newsletters on your website so people can decide for themselves whether it’s something they want to receive.
3. Be Someone’s Guest.
Guest blogging is a great way to get exposure to potential subscribers who wouldn’t ordinarily be on your radar. Use the opportunity to share your favorite tips or weigh in on a current industry topic, be personable and informative, and above all, link back to your subscriber page in your bio!
Organic email subscribers will always beat out “bought and paid for” addressees. Don’t waste money on people who will immediately (and likely angrily) unsubscribe and possibly report your small business for violating the CAN-SPAM Act. Instead, concentrate on building a clean list of people who want to hear what you have to say!
Whether you’re looking to improve your email list or build a better email marketing strategy, Mischa Communications has you covered. Drop us a line and we’ll help you get your message out to the people who want to hear it most!