How to grow your email list

Still emailing to the same list as last year?

Contrary to what the social media kids are telling you, email is far from dead.  Unlike social media, it's an owned media channel, which means that if it's your list, and you're not spamming people or sending boring content that makes them file you under T for trash, you're free to get your message out.  In fact, it's so cheap, that even if only a smaller percentage of your list opens your email, it still has one of the highest ROIs of all marketing channels.

With a few caveats:
- your email must display well on mobile or into the trash it goes
- there are regulations against spamming people, so be sure your list is CAN-SPAM Act and GDPR compliant
- some newer AI bots might drop your message into the News or Black Hole bin regardless, so if your open rates drop, test out more direct nurture campaigns rather than a standard newsletter

That said, for most industries if your organic open rate is over 17-20%, then you're doing pretty well.  

Which means you should spend a little time to grow your list.  But how, you might ask?  Here are a few quick tips:

1.  Connect your operations software to your CRM or newsletter software.  Most software can be connected to your CRM using a tool like Zapier.  Each time you log a prospect, add them to your list.  When they become a client, tag them so you can send client-specific emails.  Automate this and avoid the hassle!

2.  Collect emails in person.  Do people wait for you in your office?  Display a gift basket or charitable donation offer and a tablet with an email sign-up form.  Enter them into the drawing or donate to their favorite charity.

3.  Add an opt-in form on your website and social media. OK, this one is a no-brainer, but did you do it?

4. Create a lead magnet campaign.  What would make someone want to give up their email?  Here are some ideas:  a freebie, discount, valuable guide, access to a paid course for free, a normally paid consultation, a gift card, a checklist.  

Pro tip:  Check out what your competitors charge for that solves a micro need your prospects have and give it away for free!

Brainstorm with your team (or our team) for ideas.