Back before high speed internet and faster download speeds, text based emails were the only option. Today, in 2010, the internet speeds around the globe have increased many times over, thus making the way we see and interact with the web an overall better experience.
Don’t be afraid
Don’t be afraid to use graphic emails which have more color and are more appealing then the traditional plain text emails. It is true that plain text emails have less of a chance of falling into the junk folder, but more often than not, it is the actual content (words used) within the email that flag it for spam. Also, don’t hesitate asking the subscriber to add your email to their contact list.
Web 2.0 Emails
Considering making your emails more engaging with surveys, polls, testimonials or anything that is going to create interaction between the subscriber and your content. Spark that curiosity in your readers that will cause then to desire opening your emails because they want to see the results of a survey they participated in on your blog, or because they want to watch your latest testimonial.
Everyone is NOT created equal
Consider an even more strategic approach to email communication with your list by interacting with members of your list based on their position in the life-cycle of your campaign. “What the heck does that mean?” If you are treating your newest subscribers, who have read and clicked your emails, the same as the ones who have been on your list for months or even years, it’s no wonder they have become immune to your emails or have unsubscribed.
Those who have been a part of your list for a longer time are the absolute prime subscribers for marketing. Does it make sense to send the same marketing email to someone new and may not know as much about you, your brand, and your products as it would to someone who has read all of your emails, purchased your products, and shared your content with others? No, it makes no sense at all and simply poor marketing tactics. Thus, everyone is not created equal through the eyes of a successful marketer. Always remember WHO you are marketing to on the internet. Not just by age, gender, and location; but by their dedication, loyalty, and integrity.
Interested in receiving my emails?
It sounds as if you are recommending treating everyone as an individual, each with his or her own needs, desires, personalities and each with his or her own preferred style of communication.
How old-fashioned.
How delightful!
You absolutely have my attention.
And — of course — I do want to subscribe to your e-mails!
Clifton,
You mean we should be thinking of others before ourselves? Who would have thunk?! A powerful message to be mindful of. If there’s nothing else I know it’s that people love to read a good story, and if your sharing your make it worth while. Let people in! Let them see the transformation.
Let them read about your journey… mistakes, successes. Inquiring minds want to know. They are waiting to connect with you. So let them!
Ken Pickard
The Network Dad
.-= Ken Pickard´s last blog ..5 Facebook Fan Pages for Powerful Syndication =-.
Email is still such an important part of business that so few really take the time and effort to craft emails that are engaging.
I cringe every time a newsletter goes out at work that doesn’t contain any way for the recipient to engage with the company. These posts are great to print out and leave them sitting around in the office – someone will pick it up and get a clue ;)
.-= Murlu´s last blog ..Time Management For Successful Bloggers =-.
You are so right Murlu! Professional, engaging, and interesting emails will drastically interest readers and loyalty. It doesn’t matter if the emails are to family, co-workers, subscribers or who ever! Always strive to be innovative. Thanks for the feedback!