Someone on LinkedIn wants to know the name of an opt-in target email list provider. It’s a very common question. Email is a great way to reach people all over the world. It’s low cost, it’s fast, and it’s easy to do.
However, there are a few things you must keep in mind before you go ahead.
Should you buy a list?
Buying a list is a waste of money. Anyone offering 100,000 names for $25 is selling you a case full of spam (and headaches).
You’re paying for names of people who most likely never asked to be included on that list. It’s been “scraped” from Web sites, taken from forums, or pulled out of directories. The people on those lists did not ask to be contacted, and they don’t want your messages.
When they get your message, one of two things will happen.
First, much of it will go in the junk folder.
Second, they’ll press the “spam” button, and you’ll be blacklisted. Your messages (even the legitimate ones) will never get through spam filters again.
Not good.
What about list rental?
This is a little better. There are legitimate companies that rent out email lists of nonprofits, magazines, trade groups, etc.
You get to use the list once and only once.
The drawback is that they’re very expensive (generally about $300 per thousand names for business lists), with a 5,000 name minimum. That’s a lot of money.
While it’s legal to contact people on these lists, they’re not anxiously awaiting your message.
Building your own list
The best way to get that list? Make your own.
This will, of course, take longer, but it will be worth it. Put a sign-up form (just ask for name and email address) on your web pages, and on your blog. Use a special report on a hot topic or a how-to guide as an incentive.
Add a forwarding call to action to the emails you already send out. Write newsletter content that’s helpful and informative. Team up with other companies with existing lists and help each other.
Email me privately for personal help.
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