Email Campaign and List Building
The Importance of Building an Email List
As a freelance writer, it can be tempting to focus solely on writing and not spend time on other aspects of your business. However, neglecting to build an email list can mean missing out on potential clients and opportunities to market your services.
Email marketing is one of the most effective ways to reach potential clients and keep in touch with current ones. According to a study by Campaign Monitor, for every $1 spent on email marketing, the average return on investment is $38.
Having a strong email list can also help you establish yourself as an expert in your niche. By consistently providing valuable content to your subscribers, you can build trust and credibility with potential clients.
Getting Started with List Building
The first step in building an email list is to choose an email marketing service. Some popular options include Mailchimp, ConvertKit, and AWeber.
These services offer a variety of features including customizable opt-in forms, automation, and analytics, making it easier for you to manage and grow your list.
Once you have selected an email marketing service, you can start building your list. Here are some effective strategies to get you started:
- Offer a freebie, such as an ebook or a checklist, in exchange for email addresses
- Include a sign-up form on your website
- Promote your email list on social media
- Collaborate with other writers and offer to share each other's content with your email lists
Remember to always get explicit permission from individuals before adding them to your email list, as this is required by laws such as the CAN-SPAM Act.
Effective Email Campaigns
Now that you have built your email list, it's time to start crafting effective email campaigns. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your subject line is attention-grabbing
- Personalize your emails with merge tags, such as subscribers' names
- Include a clear call-to-action in each email
- Segment your list to send targeted emails to different groups of subscribers
- Test and track your email campaigns to see what resonates with your audience
It's important to note that email campaigns should not be used solely for self-promotion. Instead, focus on providing valuable content to your subscribers, such as tips, advice, and insights related to your niche.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I buy email lists to grow my audience?
A: No, it is not recommended to purchase email lists. These lists often contain inactive or fake email addresses, which can harm your email deliverability and credibility.
Q: How often should I email my subscribers?
A: This varies for each writer, but a good rule of thumb is to aim for consistency. Whether it's once a week or once a month, make sure your subscribers know when to expect to hear from you.
Remember, building an email list and crafting effective email campaigns takes time and effort. But with a strong list and valuable content, you can boost your freelance writing business and establish yourself as an expert in your niche.
As Hemingway once said, 'The most essential gift for a good writer is a built-in, shockproof shit detector.' So keep writing, keep building your email list, and keep honing your skills as a writer.