What's the point of building a solid email list if only a few subscribers buy your goods and services each month? Well, the good news is that you can increase email response rates in very little time - in fact, you can start implementing these simple tips right now.
Create Multiple Lists
Break lists into recent (those who have subscribed within the past month), old (those who have subscribed within the past three months), and inactive subscribers (those who have not made a purchase within the past six months).
Send mass email that includes a special offer to each of these groups to entice them into buying from you. Offers may include:
- Limited time coupon or price reduction
- Discount off new product or service
- Free special report with purchase
You should also send a reminder to old subscribers listing the products and services available as well as a 'Are you still interested?' email to those on your inactive subscriber list. As a rule, you should periodically remove inactive subscribers from your list to concentrate more on those who actually make a purchase or at least request additional information.
Segment Your Lists
When creating multiple email lists, take it one step further by segmenting lists into smaller groups by gender, geographic location, age or interests. Gather this type of information by asking people when they sign-up to receive email from you. Include one or two questions in the opt-in box such as:
- Age (provide ranges to choose from)
- Current location (state, region, etc.)
- Gender
- Interests (ask for one or two)
Create and send bulk emails tailored to different segments that provide specific information about your goods and services they would most likely react to.
You can also gather this type of information from existing subscribers by sending out a quick three or four question survey.
Track Response Rates
Send email messages in plain text or basic HTML format. Avoid flashy graphics or images as many email programs now block graphics and images unless the reader clicks the 'show images' button.
Not only is this annoying for subscribers, but if they have to any additional work, chances are, they won't read your email.
Present your information upfront in a clear manner. Provide relevant information and sell goods and services at the end.
When sending high volume email, it's important to keep testing the waters. For example, one week send an informative email along with a link to goods and services. The next week send a sales letter or pitch about a new product. Email typically falls into the following categories:
- Informational
- Sales
- Coupon/Special Offer
- Reminder
Track each type of email for at least one month to determine which ones get the highest response rates. For those that are well received - Wash. Rinse. Repeat.