Content marketing is about more than just writing copy. Quality content marketing must first start out with the basics, like email marketing principles. Understand the 'Do's' and 'Don'ts' of the business to avoid some easy pitfalls and make the most out of your efforts. Learn these 10 email marketing basics to capitalize on your customers.
1. Automate It.
Successful content marketing campaigns use an automated service like MailChimp to keep track of all your contacts, messages, and interactions.
2. Check the Headline.
As both your introduction and your first impression, what you say makes a difference. Avoid errors and make sure character length is compatible with most systems.
3. From a Reputable Name.
The "from" line on your email is one of the first things checked before people delete for spam. Use a reputable name from your group and make sure they are prepared to receive replies.
4. Don't Say 'Free" Upfront.
Offer free items or services is a great idea, just not in the subject. For some reason, the average consumer thinks this indicates something that is "to good to be true" and makes "free" one of the most deleted terms in content marketing.
5. Test It.
Test your email. Check your spelling. Send a test email to yourself and check all the formatting and links. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so don't mess it up.
6. Beware of File Size.
Rich-media and other large size files can look great in your email mockup, but often fall short when it comes to sending and loading times. If a message loads too slowly or with errors, it's unlikely a prospective consumer will even try to read it.
7. Personalize.
Part of reaching new leads is by personalizing your message whenever possible. Generate engagement through quality content marketing practices like personalized and local offers.
8. Educate Yourself.
Everyone has to start somewhere, so don't try and be an expert right away. If you are new to email marketing, make sure to study best practices or hire a content marketing firm to help you.
9. Stay on Point.
An email is not an essay or a book. Email should contain content marketing copy that introduces and summarizes offers. Larger items can be downloaded or linked within the form.
10. Organize It.
Part of the personalization process, organizing your leads and rejections into separate groups will help maximize efficiency. Automated services can assist.
Let us know if you have any questions or need help with your email marketing!
