How to Add People to Your List Without Pissing Them Off

SPAM – Uck! We all know it when it shows up. We all hate it.

But what’s the savvy marketer to do when she’s trying to build her marketing list?

First, ask yourself: Do I want to add a bunch of people to my engaging, heart-felt marketing list that will just be pissed off to have one more piece of unsolicited email in their inbox?

Do I really think those people will be more likely to open my email and buy from me?

Do I want to be seen in my industry as a SPAMer?

No?

Good, then we are on the same page.

Your marketing list can be a gold mine if you treat it well.   Approach your list with the same attitude you would a new romance. This is about building a relationship, not shoving your services or products down someone’s throat. The tips below should help you build a strong, engaged list.

1. Never add anyone to your list without their permission.
2. Create a process for adding people to your list.
   1. Offer a free gift – an ebook, MP3 recording, video training or complimentary strategy session- in exchange for being added to your list.
   2. Follow up with tips for using your free gift.
   3. Make a phone call to thank them for subscribing and offer a complimentary strategy session.
3. Use social media to advertise your free gift and invite people to join your list, send an email to those you meet at networking events offering the same.
4. Consistently offer high value content that offers real solutions to your list – not just sales offers.
5. Solicit feedback from your list. Ask your readers to comment on what you send. Request input on what else they would like you to provide.
6. Give away gifts. Free tidbits of your services that people can actually use.
7. Make your sales offers with love and respect for your peeps.
8. Share good news from great people.

What tips do you use to build your happy business marketing list?