The Super Simple Guide to Starting a Mailing List in 2024
So, you've decided it's time to start a mailing list in 2024. Congrats! 🎉 You're about to enter the wonderful world of email marketing, where you'll engage with your audience directly and (hopefully) see some sweet returns on your efforts. But where do you start? Don’t worry—we've got you covered with this super simple guide to starting a mailing list!
Why Start a Mailing List?
First things first, why even bother with a mailing list? Well, unlike social media platforms that can change algorithms on a whim, email marketing gives you direct access to your audience. Plus, it's cost-effective, personal, and proven to drive sales. Basically, if you’re not emailing, you’re missing out.
Basically, if you’re not emailing, you’re missing out.
Choosing an Email Marketing Platform
Picking the right email marketing platform is like choosing the right shoes: it needs to fit well and be comfortable. Some popular choices include:
Mailchimp: User-friendly with great analytics.
Constant Contact: Excellent customer support.
ConvertKit: Ideal for content creators.
MailerLite: Budget-friendly with a solid feature set.
Flodesk: Beautifully designed emails with an intuitive interface and flat-rate pricing.
Choose one that suits your needs and budget, and you'll be off to a great start.
Simple Ways to Collect Emails
Collecting emails doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few easy-peasy methods:
Website Sign-up Form: Place it prominently on your homepage.
Social Media Promos: Link to your sign-up form in posts and profiles.
Lead Magnets: Offer a freebie (e.g., ebook, discount, exclusive content) in exchange for an email.
In-store Sign-ups: For brick-and-mortar businesses, have a sign-up sheet at the counter.
Recommended Content for Emails
So, what should you be sending your subscribers? Aim for a mix of:
Newsletters: Updates about your business, industry news, and personal stories.
Promotions: Special offers, discounts, and product launches.
Educational Content: Tips, how-tos, and tutorials that add value.
Exclusive Content: Early access to products, behind-the-scenes looks, etc.
Suggested Frequency for Sending Emails
The golden rule: don’t be spammy. A good starting point is:
Weekly: Keeps your brand top of mind without overwhelming subscribers.
Bi-weekly: Great for businesses that don't have constant updates.
Monthly: Works if you have big updates or prefer more in-depth content.
The golden rule: don’t be spammy.
A Note About Unsubscribers
People will unsubscribe, and that’s okay. Make it easy for them by providing a clear unsubscribe link. It's better to have an engaged list than a large, disinterested one.
Tips for Designing Your Emails
Make your emails look as good as your brand with these tips:
Use a Clean Layout: Easy to read and navigate.
Brand Consistency: Use your brand colors and fonts.
Quality Images: High-resolution images that are relevant to your content.
Strong Call to Action (CTA): Clear and compelling calls to action.
Maintaining Your Email List - Respect Your Subscribers
Your subscribers trusted you with their email addresses. Here's how to keep that trust:
Remove Inactive Subscribers: If someone hasn’t engaged in 90 days, consider removing them.
Never Sell Your List: Respect your subscribers’ privacy.
Don’t Hide Unsubscribe Links: Be transparent and honest.
Ask to Be Marked as Safe: Encourage subscribers to mark your emails as safe to avoid spam filters.
Final Thoughts
Starting a mailing list might seem daunting, but with these tips, you'll be an email marketing pro in no time. Remember:
Good Headlines: Write captivating subject lines.
Quality Over Quantity: Send valuable content.
Purposeful Content: Keep your emails relevant and purposeful.
Tag Your Subscribers: Segment your list for targeted messaging.
Lead Magnets: Use freebies to attract sign-ups.
Reputable Providers: Choose platforms that prevent spam.
In the end, remember that people signed up for your content. Be engaging, respectful, and true to your brand. Happy emailing!
About Davies Designs Studio
Established in 2015, Davies Designs Studio is a Charlotte, NC based design agency offering creative solutions across various mediums including graphic design, photography, website design, and marketing. They collaborate with clients to deliver impactful final products that are creative, innovative, unique, inspirational, and exceed your expectations and goals.
In need of design assistance? Contact us!
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