A responsive (that means they buy stuff) email list is, of course, critical to making money with your newsletter.
But nobody wants to be pushy and obnoxious. And, if you are, the chances anyone will buy from you get smaller.
Here are some ways to build trust with your email marketing campaign, create a bond, and build a relationship that leads to purchases.
Grow your own list
It will be your best source of income. You’ll need to nurture it and grow it. Here are some tips on how to build your email list. RSS subscribers are good, but it turns out that email is better (ha! the direct marketers were right all along – the money is in the list).
Set up outposts
Put up free books or reports on your site, on Squidoo lenses, posterous sites, or on scribd. Include links back to your site and an invitation to sign up for your newsletter (and get your big bribe report).
Measure it
Check how you’re doing. Track open rates and click throughs (how many people click on your link). If your list is big enough (over 2,500 names), “split test” it (break it in two and see which half gets better results), Try different subject lines or different calls to action. Only change one thing at a time.
Be relevant
Different groups may be buying different things from you. Segment the email list (break it up by type of purchase, or profession, or location or whatever is most appropriate) and send them offers that are the most relevant.
Be friendly
Talk to your subscribers (not at them). Invite them to contact you if they have questions or feedback. Send a welcome message when they sign up.
Share your thoughts
Got questions about email marketing? Wonder what the difference is between a email newsletter and an auto-responder? Ask here.
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