With all the attention grabbing by social media websites it might seem insane to write something about email campaign. But the latest study by hubspot.com has raised tremendous questions on social media websites revealing the fact that 63% of B2B companies don’t get leads through social marketing.
So, the question arises from where these companies get leads. It depends on various marketing strategies, but the most efficient strategy would be email campaigning. The topic might not be the new, but after the Hubspot’s research I have decided to give you some of the result oriented tips to start the campaign.
Define the purpose of your email campaign:
To start your e-mail campaign on the right foot, be certain you define a clear goal or purpose. Forecast the future tools and make the strategies accordingly, so as later you won’t need any barriers and time to troubleshoot it.
Develop and prepare your email list:
Build an email list by encouraging current, previous and prospective customers to provide you with their email address. Entice them to give you permission to send them email by providing a basic clipboard on your front counter or submit form on your website that states “sign up here to receive coupons and discounts by email.” Targeted opt-in email lists of individuals interested in what you offer can also be purchased at reasonable prices.
Establish a time table:
Decide on how frequently you will be sending your broadcasts. There is a fine line between overdoing it and not reaching out enough in order to build and maintain long term relationship. Using a mixture of useful content and promotional messages and sending it at varying time intervals is an acceptable practice. Avoid sending too many promotional related emails.
Send emails when readers are most receptive:
Independent studies have shown the best persons rates are generated from email campaigns sent on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2-3 o’clock in the afternoon.
Write a Compelling email message:
The text body of your email is critical. Ensure your message gets right to the point with captivating content, exiting news or special offers. Be certain to include a sense of urgency with any promotional material. Place the most important portions of your message in the first paragraph. Use bullet points to make it easy to read. Well laid out content will help convert an opened email into a click to your website or phone call of your business.
Use a powerful subject line:
Remember, your subject line is the first weapon to lay impression on your customers. Capture the recipients’ attention with a short and captivating subject line. Studies have shown a well written subject line can produce open rates 10-20 times greater than your subject line or not.
Be personable:
Getting one-on-one personal attention is better than dealing with a faceless corporation any day of the week. Refrain from trying to sound professional and tone down the corporation speak. Your customers and prospects are your friends. Speak to them like real people. Your response4 and click-thru rates depend on it.
These were some of the useful tips that could really help you getting maximum leads. As I said earlier also, social networking is great but not infinite, but let me tell you that email campaign is an old practice but still the king of marketing.
Sources:
www.esalesdata.com
http://www.hubspot.com
Linda Mentzer is a published author and senior marketing manager for an information management company that has helped sell thousands of software products on a global scale. With over 11 years of experience in electronic marketing techniques, Linda has authored articles for several leading business journals, worldwide.