Email Marketing: 6 Steps to Success

The information being shared here was gathered from Constant Contact and iContact to help you prepare for the next launch.

Step 1
Set your business up with a proven permission-based email marketing software; Constant Contact or iContact. Learn the importance of managing subscriptions, unsubscribe requests, and bounce reports; viewing reporting statistics like opens and clicks; and leveraging your campaigns with social media.

Step 2
Determine the type and frequency of the email campaign you will send. It is recommended that you send at least one newsletter per month or multiple newsletters if you sell more than one type of service (i.e. auto care services). You can also send promotional messages offering a discount or a coupon.

Step 3
Add a sign-up form to your website, so you can collect new subscribers. Both companies mentioned offer a widget application for your website.

Step 4
Use an attention-grabbing email template from your email marketing software or create an professional message through your in-house design team. Keep the message simple and create action with a hyperlinked button to your website.

Step 5
Develop relevant and high-quality content for your messages. Continue sending your newsletters, announcements, or promotions with consistent frequency. As your list grows, you will notice increased traffic and sales on the day of and the days following an email send.

Step 6
To improve message deliverability, add a line similar to the following to the tops of your emails:
To ensure receipt of our emails, please add something@yourcompany.com to your address book.

Note: Your emails should come from your company email address. Not many people will relate to an email address from peterparking@aol.com.