People have many misconceptions when it comes to using email for their business. We hear people say it is outdated, too expensive, or ineffective. In reality, email marketing is cost effective and a powerful way to increase your brand’s name recognition. It can drive traffic to your site and your store, but that’s only if you’re using it the right way.
Today we want to talk about how you can use email marketing for your business and a few tips on how to do it.
Email is still relevant
A huge myth about email marketing is that it is no longer a relevant form of marketing. Thanks to the aid of smartphones and tablets, emails are more accessible than ever! With inboxes so easily reachable, you’re just a click away from reaching your audience. So why not use this to your business advantage? Both repeat and new potential customers are waiting to be connected with.
Keep your customers engaged
Emails are an effective way to stay relevant and in the minds of your audience. A simple weekly email can introduce your customer base to news and updates about your business. You can use these mailings to build excitement about new products or promotions! Email campaigns can also be used to direct customers to different areas on your website. By sending links to blogs or services, you can boost website traffic and engagement while promoting your business!
Bang for your buck
As a small business owner you most likely know how expensive marketing can get, but the beauty of marketing is it comes in many different styles. Email marketing is one of the most accessible and effective styles of marketing small business owners. Implementing email marketing on your own can be as easy as promoting a sign-up sheet on your website or at your place of business. More advanced users can procure lists and grow their audience as well.
Things to watch out for
Of course not every marketing strategy is going to be a perfect fit for every business. There are some possible downsides to email marketing you should be aware of. Just check your spam folder right now and you’ll see what we mean. It is imperative to make sure any emails you send out to customers represent your business voice and style. It can be tough standing out amongst the crowd, but the following tips can help:
1. Don’t spam your list: Sending emails too frequently will guarantee that you end up in the spam folder.
2. Be unique: Use interesting subject lines and make sure your email is as interesting to look at as it is to read!
3. Be consistent: If you decide to send out an email every month, do it! Whatever frequency you decide on, be consistent.
4. Watch your number of links: Using too many links can trigger spam traps for many email servers, including Gmail, Yahoo and Outlook. Keep the number of links you offer low, especially if you see your spam reports or unopens climb.
5. Watch your metrics: Spam reports, unopens, opens and click throughs are all important email metrics that indicate people are receiving and interacting with your email.
If you aren’t happy with your email outcomes, or aren’t sure how to start using email marketing, give us a call. We can help you leverage this powerful, cost-effective tool for your business.