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Email Marketing

Explore a curated variety of expert-produced resources on email marketing, from prospecting and segmentation to personalization. Get inspired by real examples and access tailored templates to delight your customers—every single time you press send.
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Marketing strategyHow to Determine the Budget for Your Email Marketing Campaign: 4 Keys to ConsiderAs marketing managers and business owners, we’re always grappling with our marketing campaign budgets. While platforms like Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Google ads are popular choices and can be effective, they come with a significant cost that can eat into our profits. However, there's a cost-effective alternative that has proven to be incredibly valuable: email marketing. Email marketing is remarkably cost-effective with minimal cost per subscriber. Plus, with its potential for significant ROI, it’s a no-brainer for businesses, especially direct-to-consumer (DTC). In this blog, we look at 4 keys to help you determine your email marketing campaign budget: Understand the cost efficiency of email marketingMeasure your ROILook for industry benchmarksTrack your email marketing progress Meet the expert Yaron Been is a renowned growth coach and eCommerce entrepreneur, having built and scaled multiple 7-figure stores. He also hosts The EcomXFactor Podcast and has managed over $10 million in Facebook ad campaigns for various DTC brands while enhancing his expertise on email marketing. 1. Understand the cost efficiency of email marketing The main cost associated with email marketing is the fee email service providers (ESP) charge. Leading ESPs like Klaviyo and MailChimp usually charge based on the size of your email list. Plus, you may have initial setup costs, such as designing email banners and hiring a skilled copywriter. However, the actual cost of sending an email to each subscriber often amounts to just a few cents. Consider this: As a digital form of communication, you completely eliminate costs associated with printing materials, postage, or physical advertising space.Many ESPs include automation in their packages, meaning you can save time and money by side-stepping manual interventions.Email marketing is scalable and can grow with your business. What does this mean for your email marketing budget? You have more flexibility. Based on previous campaigns' performance and ROI expectations, you can make an informed decision about your budget allocation. If a particular campaign is performing well, you can allocate more resources to it. If not, you can reallocate those resources. Try these tips to make sure your email marketing is cost-effective:Build and maintain a high-quality email list.Craft engaging and relevant content for your subscribers.Use A/B testing to optimize your email campaigns.Avoid sending too many emails. It can lead to email fatigue and unsubscribes.Ensure your emails are mobile-responsive. 2. Measure your ROI ROI provides insight into how well your email marketing efforts are performing and also guides your next steps for optimization and growth. It comes down to whether the campaign is profitable or not. As we already mentioned, email marketing has the potential to deliver a high ROI. According to the Data & Marketing Association, it can be as high as 42:1. Why? Because email marketing offers a direct line of communication to engaged customers, fostering brand loyalty and driving repeat purchases. Plus, if you personalize your emails according to individual customer preferences, you can increase engagement and conversions. So, using ROI figures from past email marketing campaigns can help you forecast future ones and influence your budget decisions. Note: Tracking your ROI for email marketing can be challenging due to attribution issues. To overcome this, incorporate strategies like custom UTM parameters in your email campaigns to track and analyze ROI.Plus, analyzing campaign-specific revenue data rather than relying solely on overall revenue can provide better insights into the impact of email marketing on driving results. 3. Look for industry benchmarks Industry benchmarks provide valuable insights into what’s considered standard or exceptional in email marketing metrics. This can help inform your budget, gauge your progress, and give you something to compare your activities to, especially if you're just starting out and don't have an extensive history yet. CampaignMonitor offers a comprehensive industry breakdown: But don't refer to industry benchmarks in isolation—you have to use it in conjunction with other factors and considerations. Industry benchmarks are a helpful reference point, but you should take your goals, target audience, niche, and circumstances into consideration. If you can, self-comparison over time is also very effective. 4. Track your email marketing progress Tracking the effectiveness of your email marketing campaign is vital for making data-driven decisions regarding your budget and achieving continuous improvement. You can gain valuable insights into what’s working and what’s not by closely monitoring performance metrics such as: Open ratesClick-through rates (CTR)Conversion ratesRevenue generated This way, you can justify your budget allocation and ensure your marketing budget aligns with your objectives. By regularly analyzing your email marketing metrics, you can gauge progress, identify patterns, and uncover opportunities for further enhancement. Sealing success in email marketing Email marketing provides a cost-effective strategy for businesses to reach and engage their audience. By understanding cost efficiency, measuring ROI, considering industry benchmarks, and tracking campaign progress, you can determine an effective budget and maximize the impact of your email marketing campaigns. At Mayple, we understand the importance of email marketing in driving growth and achieving business goals. We can help you find a top-vetted email marketing expert to help you set up email marketing campaign budgets, build an email list, segment your target audience, and more.
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Marketing strategy6 Black Friday Email Marketing Templates for 2024It goes without saying that Black Friday is one of the most important shopping events of the year. In fact, more than 50% of US shoppers plan to do their holiday shopping on Black Friday. This amounts to $30-40 billion in sales—of which $8.9 billion is spent online. So, the big question is: how do you get a slice of that? Email marketing is uniquely suited to help you make a big impact on Black Friday. You can simultaneously reach a wide audience while still maintaining a high level of personalization for each customer. Below, we list and discuss 6 free Black Friday email marketing templates to help you get started. 6 free Black Friday email marketing templates for 2024 Countdown to savingsExclusive sneak peek dealsFlash sale extravaganzaDoorbuster discounts galoreThanksgiving gratitude and offersVIP customer exclusive deals Template #1: "Countdown to Savings" This is a classic email template to use urgency as your strategy. You know the feeling: watching a ticking clock stirs up an instinctive sensation that time is running out and you must act fast. When you couple a countdown timer with appealing visuals, you have a formula for action. Pro tipDon't just send an email at the start of the countdown, but near the end, too. It's the final hurrah—the last little nudge to get customers to pull the trigger on the deal they've been considering. Sample text for "Countdown to Savings" Subject: The Countdown is On! 🕒 Don't Miss These Savings Hey [Customer's name], The biggest shopping day of the year is right around the corner. We want you to be in the front row, so here's your personal invitation to our Countdown to Savings event. [Add your offers. Include: Numbers wherever possible, like percentage discounts, BOGO, etc.High-quality photos of key itemsClear headlinesVisual separationColorful buttons to get the user to take action.] [Consider using a countdown app to insert a live countdown timer clock into the email.] [Button: SHOP NOW] Looking for more ideas other than email? Check out our guide to marketing on Black Friday. Template #2: "Exclusive Sneak Peek Deals" Customers want to know that they're valued. Offering exclusive sneak peeks is a great way to make them feel special. Plus, it also gets them excited and curious about what's coming up and how they can get in on the deals. Sample text for "Exclusive Sneak Peek Deals" Subject: Sneak Peek: A Special Deal Just for You, [Customer's name] Hey [Customer's name], As we approach Thanksgiving (not to mention one of the biggest shopping days of the year!), we want you to know we're thankful for you. That's why we're giving you an exclusive sneak peek at the deals you'll be getting this year. [Tease your deals. Include numbers: High-quality visualsClear headlinesVisual separationColorful buttons.] [Button: SHOW ME THE DEALS] Looking to extend your Black Friday promotion to Cyber Monday? Check out our guide to the best BFCM marketing ideas. Template #3: "Flash Sale Extravaganza" A flash sale is another way to create a sense of urgency and FOMO (fear of missing out). In a flash sale, you're offering a large discount for a short period of time to get your audience to act now. Sample text for "Flash Sale Extravaganza" Subject: Flash Sale Extravaganza: You Don't Want to Miss This 👀 Hey [Customer's name], Black Friday just got brighter! For a limited time, we're slashing prices on our most sought-after items. But don't blink, or you'll miss it. [Showcase the top products on sale with: Vibrant imagesOriginal pricesDiscounted prices Include brief descriptions that generate interest and highlight savings.] [Button: GRAB THE DEALS NOW] Template #4: "Doorbuster Discounts Galore" Doorbuster discounts get their name from the idea that the discount is so enticing that customers will "bust down the door" of your store to take advantage of the deal. Of course, since this is online, it's more of an e-doorbuster (or a screenbuster, perhaps). Regardless, the deal should be irresistible—something that's so exciting they simply can't pass it up. Pro tip Before you send, segment your email list based on past purchase behavior, preferences, or demographics. This allows you to offer several doorbusters to customers in each group, drastically boosting the likelihood of conversions. Sample text for "Doorbuster Discounts Galore" Subject: Doorbuster Discounts Galore: Deals You Simply Can't Pass Up Hey [Customer's name], How about exclusive savings without the usual scramble? Dive into our doorbuster offers—it's the rush, without the rush. [Highlight products with clear, straightforward visuals. Show the old price, neatly slashed, beside the fresh deal.] [Button: GET YOUR DOORBUSTER ] Template #5: "Thanksgiving Gratitude and Offers" We all love eating turkey, but Thanksgiving also presents big opportunities to connect with your customers and show how much you value them. Acknowledging your customers' importance to your business and offering them a special deal is a win-win situation: they feel appreciated, and you drive sales through enticing offers. Sample text for "Thanksgiving Gratitude and Offers" Subject: As Warm as Your Thanksgiving Stuffing 🥧 Hey [Customer's name], While families have their secret stuffing recipes and cherished traditions, we have our own way of giving thanks. It might not be edible, but it's crafted with the same love and appreciation. [Display the curated offers with elegant visuals, each telling a story of value and care.] [Button: DISCOVER OUR THANKS] Template #6: "VIP Customer Exclusive Deals" This template focuses on loyal customers: the ones who have been around for a while and consistently choose you over their competitors. In fact, many customers expect a little extra something from brands they're loyal to. Black Friday is a great time to give them VIP treatment. Sample text for "VIP Customer Exclusive Deals" Subject: Black Friday’s Finest, Reserved for You Hey [Customer's name], Through seasons and sales, one thing remains: your choice to stick with us. As Black Friday nears, we've curated something that mirrors your distinction. [Present deals with sharp visuals, focusing on their unparalleled appeal.] [Button: ACCESS YOUR VIP COLLECTION] » Remember to thank your customers for their purchase: Use a post-purchase email template. Utilizing templates for maximum impact It's critical that you customize any template as much as possible to make it unique to your brand and your audience. Try these tips: Add your company logo and branding, like colors, fonts, and imagery.Craft compelling subject lines that are short and sweet while still highlighting the key points of interest. For example, write numbers and offers clearly: "75% off all jackets, today only!"Use personalization as much as possible, including the customer's name in the body and subject line.Include a clear call-to-action with bold buttons to click to your website.Use high-quality photos and images so customers know exactly what they're getting.Leave your contact information at the bottom or in the footer, including email, phone number (if possible), and a link to a live chat if you have one. » Want to improve your click through rate? Get these email engagement tips. Email templates: Your secret weapon for Black Friday success Improve your email marketing for Black Friday with these versatile templates. From the urgency of "Countdown to Savings" to the exclusivity of "VIP Customer Exclusive Deals," tailor and optimize each template with personalized touches, captivating subject lines, and compelling visuals. Elevate your Black Friday game, making this year's event a sales and engagement triumph. » Explore these additional email marketing examples to improve ROI.
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GeneralUnderstanding Email Marketing Executives: Roles and ResponsibilitiesIn the digital sphere, everyone's trying to grab your attention. Social media, ads, SMS marketing—it's like a never-ending party. However, as a brand, email marketing gives you a unique opportunity to convey your message directly to an audience that genuinely wants to hear from you. Consider that email marketing has an impressive return on investment (ROI)—30-35x for smaller businesses and even 40-45x for more high-profile campaigns. But, to get in on that ROI, you may need the help of an email marketing expert or manager as they play a crucial role in orchestrating successful email marketing campaigns. Below, we explore: Key email marketing executive roles and responsibilitiesHow email marketing executives collaborate in a teamAn email marketing executive's approach to creating an email marketing strategyCritical tools an email marketing executive needs » Let Mayple's AI algorithm match you with a vetted email marketing expert who gets you and your brand. Meet the expert Sandra Stepan, a seasoned digital marketing and eCommerce expert, is the founder of SnapAdvantage. Her diverse portfolio includes collaborations with startups and companies with $20 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR), solidifying her as a leading resource for brands seeking growth and revenue optimization. Key roles and responsibilities of email marketing executives Email marketing executives play a crucial role in designing, executing, and optimizing email marketing campaigns to reach and engage with target audiences effectively. While their responsibilities may vary depending on the organization's size and specific needs, there are some key roles and responsibilities typically associated with the position: Create an email marketing strategy Effective email marketing starts with a well-thought-out marketing strategy and plan. This includes: Setting clear goals for the email marketing campaign that aligns with the overall objectives of the organization.Creating an editorial calendar aligned with marketing events.Determining the ideal email cadence—daily, weekly, or otherwise—for consistency. Set up automated emails flows Email marketing executives set up automated email flows, such as cart abandonment emails, welcome email series, post-purchase flows, and browser abandonment flows. This starts by segmenting your audience based on particular actions or events, allowing them to send targeted emails and increase your chances of conversion. Compile email campaigns Crafting the actual email campaigns is another core responsibility. Email marketing experts design campaigns based on predefined templates, often developed in collaboration with design and programming teams. These campaigns require meticulous planning, including defining the content, tone, voice, copywriting, and graphics. » Follow this copywriting guide to craft emails that stand out. Build and grow an email list Building and maintaining an email list is a continuous effort. Email marketing executives use strategies like pop-ups, content marketing, partnerships, and ads to keep your email list growing. To fully attend to their roles and responsibilities, email marketing executives can't operate in isolation. They have to work closely with the entire marketing team. Consider that when your email marketing, social media, and other teams are in sync, it's much easier to maintain a consistent brand voice across platforms. For example, if your social media team is launching a new product promotion on Instagram or TikTok, coordinating this with your email marketing campaign results in complementary messaging and perhaps even better results. How email marketing executives ensure effective collaboration across the board To ensure seamless collaboration with other departments, email marketing executives typically practice the following: Utilize brand guidelines An email marketing executive must always have brand guidelines for all the brands they work with to ensure consistency. These guidelines typically include details such as colors, typography, brand voice, and overall aesthetics. Communicate design requests clearly While email marketing executives don't always delve deeply into graphic design, collaboration with the design team is crucial for creating visually appealing campaigns. When working with designers, email marketers must provide clear design requests and outline the copy and specifications they need for the graphics, ensuring that they align with the email marketing strategy. Implement project management tools and standard operating procedures (SOPs) Email marketers use project management software like ClickUp, Asana, or Monday.com to facilitate smooth collaboration among team members. These tools enable them to assign tasks, use tags to identify team members, and keep everyone in the loop. Similarly, standardized operating processes (SOPs) ensure that anyone joining the team can easily pick up where others left off, fostering efficiency and consistency. An email marketing executive's approach to creating an email marketing strategy As we already mentioned, one of the main responsibilities of an email marketing executive is to create effective email marketing strategies. Here's how they do it: Clearly defined goals It all starts with understanding what you want to achieve with email marketing. For most brands, the primary goal is revenue growth, so it's essential to specify the additional revenue you want to generate through email marketing and the percentage of total revenue it should contribute.Email cadence The next step is considering your available resources, including list size and segmentation capabilities. This step facilitates alignment between strategy, resources, and goals.Analyzing current flows After sending emails for a while, looking at their performance is crucial. That's why email marketers spend a lot of time assessing the performance of existing email flows and optimizing them for effectiveness.Understanding customer behavior Email marketing experts also prioritize examining customer behavior to identify opportunities for tailored email flows.Monitor and improve After putting an email marketing strategy into motion, email marketers regularly monitor campaign performance, analyze data, and refine the strategy over time. Optimizing your email marketing strategy means recognizing that your brand is unique and your email marketing should reflect that distinctiveness. Hence, an email marketing executive can start with assumptions and industry best practices but are always ready to pivot and fine-tune their approach based on the specific needs of the brand they're working with. Critical tools for email marketing executives Email marketing executives rely on the following essential tools and strategies to optimize campaigns and achieve their goals: Analytics integration Email marketing experts regularly review analytics data to track key metrics like email engagement, open rates, click-through rates, conversion rates, and revenue generated. They then use this information to refine their email marketing strategy and identify areas for improvement. Native integrations Native integrations simplify the data flow between email software and other essential tools like eCommerce platforms (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce). Email marketers leverage these native integrations to automate processes, such as syncing customer data, tracking purchase behavior, and triggering targeted emails based on user actions. Where native integration isn't available, a tool like Zapier can bridge the gap. Data privacy compliance The general rule of thumb is to only email people who have willingly subscribed to your list and expressed a genuine interest in hearing from you. Hence, email marketers must prioritize permission-based marketing, avoid purchased lists, simplify unsubscribing, and understand local regulations to maintain data privacy compliance. Unleash the power of email marketing with the right expert Email marketing is still one of the best ways to connect with an audience, build a brand, and grow a business. But, it takes a skilled email marketing executive to bring it all together. They're the key players in ensuring campaigns hit the mark, working effectively with other departments, and keeping data privacy in check. With an experienced email marketing consultant by your side, you can also fully tap into the incredible power of email marketing.
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Marketing strategyWhat Is an Email Audit? Expert Insights on How It Can Help Your BusinessIn digital marketing, staying ahead of the curve isn't just a preference—it's a necessity. Email marketing, a timeless tool in a marketer's arsenal, continues to drive business growth. But like any tool, your email marketing strategies need to be sharpened. This is where email audits come into play. An email audit involves looking closely at all the emails you've sent to your subscribers and assessing how well they've performed. This will help you understand what's working and what isn't. An email audit typically involves: Reviewing your email content and design to make sure it still aligns with your goals and brand identity.Checking open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates to check how effective your emails are.Organizing your email list into different segments based on their behavior to send more targeted emails.Making sure your emails comply with relevant laws and regulations.Removing inactive or unsubscribed subscribers.Adjusting your email marketing strategy based on the insights gained from the audit. The term "email audit" often raises questions about how it differs from a regular analysis. To clarify:Email analysis provides a snapshot of your current email performance. It's a one-time look at how your emails perform at a specific moment—open rates, sales, and customer engagement.Email audit delves deep into the entire email process and its role in your business strategy. It's about understanding the big picture and optimizing your email strategy accordingly. Below, we look in more detail at how to approach an email audit, what role data plays, how to implement email audit recommendations, and common challenges you may encounter. Meet the expert Aaron Parnes has 16 years of online marketing experience. As the founder and president of Razor Clicks, he specializes in helping customers develop cutting-edge marketing strategies to effectively reach their target audience and run profitable operations. 3 questions you should be able to answer after an email audit If you haven't done an email audit before, it may seem daunting. To get you started, here are 3 key questions you should be able to answer once you've done your email audit: Frequency: How often do you send emails?Open rates: How deeply do your customers interact with your emails?Loyalty: How often do your customers buy through your emails? These questions center around if you send your emails frequently enough and if your customers even interact with them when they get them—both just opening the email and buying from it. Frequency: How often do you send emails? The optimal email-sending frequency is a nuanced matter that depends on the size of your email list. It's not a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. The key is maintaining a consistent presence in your customers' inboxes while continually striving for improvement. While a visually appealing design and a well-thought-out layout are undeniably important for engaging customers and encouraging their response, keeping things in perspective is crucial. Often, companies get caught up in the pursuit of perfection, working on every detail of content and design. Here's the reality: It's far better to send out an email, even if it doesn't have a perfect design, than not to send one at all. Inaction can be a significant setback. For smaller email lists with limited subscribers, sending emails too frequently can overwhelm the same individuals with content. In such cases, scaling down and sending emails a few times a month is advisable. Open rates: How deeply do your customers interact with your emails? In your quest to determine how deeply and frequently your email list engages with your content, you need to analyze your open rates. However, there's a twist—Apple introduced privacy settings that disrupt how we interpret these rates. They no longer provide data on "privacy opens," making it challenging to gauge actual open rates accurately. "Privacy opens" occurs when Apple's system pre-opens an email without confirmation of user interaction. We can't be certain if the user genuinely engaged with the email. Instead, we have to rely on more reliable indicators of list quality and engagement: Are they actively clicking on the content?Do they revisit the email multiple times?Are they forwarding or sharing it with others?Do they take the desired action—visiting the website—after encountering an email? Want to improve your click through rates? Check out our guide on email engagement. Loyalty: How often do your customers buy through your emails? Another crucial aspect of the email audit is your company's email process. This encompasses your emails' content, how you execute your email campaigns, and the overarching strategy governing how you send emails. To gauge the effectiveness of these elements, you need to examine their performance closely. This includes checking the repetitive rates, an essential metric that reveals how frequently your customers purchase through your email campaigns. Is it a recurring pattern throughout the year, or do customers return multiple times over their lifetime with the company? These insights help you understand the immediate impact of email marketing on sales and its long-term influence on customer engagement and loyalty. » Here's how retention email marketing can help boost customer loyalty Data analysis: The backbone of email audits To help you answer the above questions, you have to become best friends with data. It gives you invaluable insights into your email campaigns' impact on revenue. So, a crucial metric you should consider is the percentage of revenue your business generates from email marketing. While a rule of thumb suggests aiming for 1 out of 4 of your sales to come from email marketing, the ideal number depends on your business's nature. You can't expect the same revenue for a one-time purchase product like electronics and for a product used daily that needs to be replaced much sooner, like skincare. The data you analyze from the audit translates into actionable recommendations, helping you make informed and strategic decisions. Cheat sheet: How to implement email audit recommendations effectively After completing your email audit, you should embark on a structured journey. We've formulated a mnemonic, "Cash is King," to encapsulate the essential steps for you to follow to implement your email audit recommendations effectively. While "King" isn't part of the acronym, the six letters that form "Cash is" are a compass for companies to navigate this process: C - CollectionA - AutomationS - SchedulingH - HygieneI - InboxingS - Segmenting This formula ensures a methodical approach, progressing from easier to more challenging tasks. We begin with straightforward actions, such as adjusting domain settings to optimize deliverability. As you gain momentum, you can delve into designing and implementing additional email campaigns, developing a robust calendar strategy, and refining automated workflows that engage customers based on their unique interactions and behaviors. Cross your T's and dot your I's: Making sure your emails are compliant Apart from your email's content, it's equally important to make sure it meets all the necessary legal requirements. For example, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) reigns supreme in Europe. It requires that you obtain clear and explicit permission from each contact for every interaction your company initiates. Modern email service providers (ESPs), like MailChimp and Klaviyo, have stringent policies. They not only encourage but demand compliance with the law. As a result, violations are rarely an issue when using reputable ESPs. Common challenges in email marketing Successful email marketing requires overcoming several common challenges: Perfection paralysis: Striving for perfection can delay campaigns. It's often better to send out emails regularly, even if they're not perfect.Decision-making bottlenecks: Too many decision-makers can lead to indecision. Streamlining the process is crucial for efficiency.Development delays: Relying heavily on development work can slow down email marketing efforts. Modern ESPs make email marketing more accessible, reducing the need for constant development. A glance into the future of email marketing While artificial intelligence (AI) is a buzzword across various industries, its tangible impact on email marketing remains somewhat elusive. AI's role in email marketing extends to text generation and generating subject line ideas, with limited applications beyond that. AI's transformative potential in email marketing remains largely untapped. On a different front, SMS marketing is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. However, integrating SMS effectively with email marketing is critical. Many ESPs recognize this synergy and are actively merging SMS capabilities into their email marketing platforms. The future might see a harmonious approach—sending emails alongside SMS reminders, creating a seamless and effective omnichannel marketing strategy. Take your first email audit steps with Mayple Email audits aren't just a necessary tool— they're a compass guiding your email marketing journey. By regularly evaluating and adapting your strategies, you can continue to harness the power of email marketing to drive your business forward. If you need a partner to help you tackle the first round of email audits, Mayple can find you the right email marketing expert: We use an AI-powered Perfect Matching algorithm to link you with a vetted expert.You get a dedicated campaign manager to see you through the process.Our tools automate payment, admin, and other processes.
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Email MarketingWinning Email Marketing Lead Generation Tips 2024Email is one of the least expensive, most effective marketing channels. Some might still believe email marketing to be boring and outdated, but the data tells a different story. Email has a conversion rate of 15.22%, higher than any other channel.  How does it work and how to use email as a powerful tool for lead generation?  Keep reading and find out what winning email campaigns have in common.  (Source) What is email lead generation? Email lead generation means capturing potential customers' attention, and nurturing them into loyal patrons. It's like an initial handshake in a digital world; a crucial first step that can set the stage for long-lasting customer relationships. When email lead generation is done right, it should feel like a conversation with a friend who genuinely cares about your well-being, and tries to understand your needs, offer relevant solutions, and build a relationship that goes beyond mere transactions. An effective email journey nurtures your ideal prospects, loyalty, and a community of brand advocates who eagerly await your next offering. Keep in mind there are two main ways to look at email lead generation: inbound and outbound. Inbound email lead generation involves drawing in potential customers organically, often through content marketing, SEO, and providing valuable resources. On the flip side, outbound strategies involve a more direct approach, reaching out to potential leads through cold emailing or targeted campaigns. However, a word of caution – going all-out with outbound tactics can be risky, possibly even landing you in legal hot water. So it's essential to know the ins and outs to avoid any rough patches and keep that growth momentum going strong. Advantages of email marketing lead generation Email marketing lead generation isn't just a trend, it's a powerhouse for businesses looking to level up their game. Let's break down the key advantages that make email lead generation strategy an absolute game-changer. Brand awareness In the buzzing world of eCommerce and B2B, standing out is half the battle. Email marketing helps you do just that. Consistent, well-crafted emails keep your brand on the radar, making it familiar to your audience. It's not just about popping into their inbox, it's about making a memorable first impression that lasts. Gaining your prospects’ trust You can think of trust as the currency of online businesses, and email marketing is your trust-building toolkit. To show your reliability, deliver valuable content consistently, address pain points, and show genuine interest in your audience. As that trust grows, so does the likelihood of turning prospects into a loyal customer base.  Building relationships Building genuine connections can feel like a lost art today when everything is automated, automatic, and immediate. That's why extra care needs to be put into your email marketing. Look at it as your direct line to your audience, allowing you to have real conversations, share stories, and connect on a personal level. These relationships go beyond transactions, creating a community around your brand. Providing value to potential customers Nobody – I repeat, nobody – likes spam clogging up their inbox. Email marketing done right is all about providing value. From insightful email content to exclusive offers, each email should enrich your audience's experience and directly, and provide value. Become a literal source of value for your audience, and they’ll eagerly anticipate your next message, instead of dreading it. Converting prospects Of course, the ultimate goal and benefit of email marketing lead generation is conversion. It's not only about writing captivating emails, it's about taking your audience from intrigued prospect to delighted customer. With the appropriate method, each email gets a step closer to the desired conversion. Top 23 best practices for email lead generation Embarking on the journey of email lead generation is not easy. While the potential for success is immense, so are the challenges that lie ahead. Here are our top 23 recommended best practices to give a great impression, and build an expansive network of potential buyers. Know your ideal audience As with any marketing strategy, know your audience and keep them close. Tailor your emails to speak directly to the folks who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer. It's not about casting a wide net, it's about catching the right fish. Dive into their online behavior, analyzing their website visits, social media engagement, and content consumption patterns. This deep dive will provide invaluable insights into their preferences and aspirations, guiding you to craft emails that speak directly to their hearts and minds. Offer something valuable What's the quickest way to someone's inbox? Deliver value. Whether it's exclusive content, discounts, or insider tips, make your emails irresistible. Your audience should always feel like they're gaining something by opening your emails. Don't just dump the latest blog posts in a newsletter and wait for your click-through rates and conversion rates to skyrocket. It doesn't work that way. Give people what they genuinely want, and wait for the fruit of your generosity to flourish.  Make your opt-in form simple Nobody has time for a lengthy questionnaire. Keep your opt-in form short and to the point. Ask only for essential information, and watch your conversion rates climb. Remember that every additional question adds friction to the process, potentially discouraging conversion. Your job is to make it as effortless for them as possible. Likewise, make unsubscribing easy, too. Not only is this a requirement for most data privacy regulations, but it's great for your brand as well. You don't want to be the business that clings to its subscribers just because they fear the dreaded unsubscribe rate. Remember: it's better to have a roster of active subscribers who engage and want to see emails from you than a long list of people who barely open your emails.  Optimize your landing page Here’s how it works: your email got them interested, and now your landing page seals the deal. Make it clean, easy to navigate, and ensure that it follows through on the promises made in your email. A seamless transition from email to landing page is an important part of successful email marketing campaigns. A/B test different elements What works and what doesn't? Think of A/B testing as your compass for navigating the seas of email marketing. Once again, experimenting is key: experiment with subject lines, content, and visuals to discover what resonates best with your particular audience and email campaign. (Source) Not sure how to do this, or and how to pull correct data from your experiments? Contact Mayple and allow us to connect you with a vetted email marketing consultant in less than three days! Use email automation Time is of the essence, and automation is your secret weapon. You can set up and leverage automated tools to deliver the right message at the right time and maintain an optimal email marketing flow. From welcome sequences to personalized follow-ups, automation keeps your leads engaged without burning you out. Create a lead scoring strategy Growing a list of contact details is great, but it doesn't put money in the bank. It's more effective to assign values to various interactions – from opening emails to clicking links. As prospects engage, their score rises. When they hit a certain threshold, it's a signal they're ripe for conversion. Think of it like having a personal scorecard for each lead. Time your emails right Timing is everything, and experimentation is the name of the game. It’s important to understand your target audience to know how many marketing emails to send per week. Once you have that down, you can play with different times to see when your audience is most responsive. Whether it's morning motivation or evening relaxation, find the sweet spot for your specific audience. Use personalization No one wants to feel like just another name on an email list. Send personalized emails by using the recipient's name and tailoring content to their preferences. This is not something you want to just consider as an option. This is an absolute necessity, to the point where any email marketing software worth the money will offer this as a basic feature. Make sure the content is relevant Relevancy is the key to email engagement. Ensure your content aligns with your audience's interests and needs. Generic messages won't get read, won’t get answered, and won’t convert. As simple as that. Marketing teams need to delve into your audience's pain points, aspirations, and challenges, and start crafting your based on your findings. Maintain list hygiene A clean email list is a happy list, so regularly clean out inactive subscribers and update your contact database. It's not about quantity, it's about quality. Don’t use a “no-reply” address No one likes a one-way street. Use an email address that invites replies. It opens the door for communication, feedback, and ultimately, stronger connections. Segment your emails Not all leads are created equal. Segment your email list based on factors like demographics, behavior, or engagement level, and tailor your messages to each segment for maximum impact. Use social media channels Extend the reach of your emails by leveraging social media. Share snippets, teasers, and exclusive content on your social platforms to create a cohesive brand experience, and provide value at the same time. Organize webinars and conferences Bring your audience together virtually. Host webinars or online conferences to showcase your expertise, engage with your audience, and capture leads in real time. Make use of partnerships and collaborations Two heads are better than one: partner with other businesses or influencers in your industry to cross-promote and tap into each other's audiences. This is the ultimate win-win-win situation. Create a referral program It’s time to turn your satisfied customers into your best advocates. Implement a referral program that rewards customers for bringing in new qualified leads. It's a win-win that amplifies your reach. (Source) Optimize your homepage for lead capture Don't let your homepage be a simple business card. Optimize it for lead capture by incorporating clear calls-to-action and enticing offers that encourage visitors to share their contact information. Create engaging & enticing landing pages Landing pages are your silent salespeople. Make them visually appealing, relevant, and aligned with your email content. A seamless transition from email to landing page increases the chances of conversion. Do not buy email leads The temptation is real and can get to the best of us. Do yourself a favor and resist! Buying email leads might seem like a shortcut, but it often leads to low-quality contacts, i.e. users who might look like your buyer personas but are not looking for your products. Plus, it can all lead to legal headaches. Focus on organic growth and building a genuinely interested audience. Measure your efforts If you want to win at email marketing lead generation, measure your success rate. Data-driven insights will help you scale your operation, address unsuccessful tactics, and, overall, provide you with a lot of actionable insights to grow your business. Some of the most important metrics to follow include:  Open ratesClick-through ratesBounce ratesEngagement rates Response rates Conversion rates Create a sense of urgency  Create scarcity and urgency to boost conversion rates. Offer limited-time discounts, early access to an upcoming product, or any other exclusive offers that drive people to take action immediately. Include a call to action button It doesn’t matter how great your email looks if you don’t have a clear call-to-action button. Include an easy-to-spot and clickable CTA to make sure readers know exactly what action they should take next. Design & copywriting tips for lead generation on email Crafting compelling emails requires a delicate blend of design finesse and persuasive copy. Here are some tips to ensure your emails not only catch attention but also drive meaningful engagement. Keep it short and sweet Keep your message concise and to the point. By respecting your audience's time, they'll be way more likely to engage with what you have to say. However, being concise doesn't mean sacrificing substance. Ensure your email addresses the key pain points or offers valuable insights. Use relevant graphics You know what they say: a picture is worth a thousand words. This is especially so in the visual realm of emails. Incorporate relevant graphics that not only catch the eye but also complement your message. Whether it's product images, infographics, or illustrations, visuals enhance the overall impact of whatever you’re trying to communicate. Consider A/B testing different visual elements to understand what resonates best with your audience and drives higher engagement. Use plain fonts Fancy fonts might look cool, but simplicity often wins (especially when it comes to bringing in leads through email marketing). Choose easy-to-read fonts that maintain clarity across various devices. The goal is for your audience to effortlessly absorb your message without squinting. Additionally, you can use font size strategically to emphasize important points or create a hierarchy in your content, guiding your readers through the email, and ultimately enhancing your email engagement. Make good use of white space A cluttered email is overwhelming. Embrace white space to give your content room to breathe. It not only improves readability but also directs attention to key elements. Less can indeed be more. Use white space not only between text and images but also around your CTA, guiding your audience's focus to the action you want them to take. Put effort into your email subject lines Your subject line is the gateway to your email. Make it irresistible. Spark curiosity, evoke emotion, or offer a solution. Make value apparent from the get-go, and remember that compelling subject lines can set the stage for an email that demands to be opened. (Source) Add social share buttons Extend the reach of your emails with a simple addition: social share buttons. Encourage your recipients to share valuable content effortlessly, turning them into advocates for your brand. Additionally, consider integrating social proof within your emails, such as testimonials or user-generated content, to boost credibility and trust. Include an effective CTA Your Call-to-Action (CTA) is a key element of your email marketing campaign. State what you want your audience to do next, whether it's making a purchase, downloading content, or signing up, a compelling CTA propels your leads down the conversion path. As an email marketer, you should experiment with different CTA styles, such as button color or text, to discover what resonates best with your audience and drives the desired action. Use GIFs and emojis (but don’t overdo it) Inject a bit of personality and fun into your emails with GIFs and emojis. Just remember that moderation is key. Use them sparingly to enhance, not overwhelm. A well-placed GIF can illustrate a concept or showcase a product in action, while emojis can convey emotion and make your email feel way more conversational. Optimize your emails for mobile The mobile revolution is real, and your emails need to keep up. The best email marketing examples follow responsive design best practices, use legible fonts (even for smaller screens), and ensure images are not too big.  Consider implementing a mobile-first approach in your design, ensuring that your emails look good and provide a seamless user experience on various devices. Email marketing lead generation: the path to ideal customers If you want to turn leads into customers (and even more, loyal customers), email is your best bet. An effective strategy for cold emails based on personalized content and a solid overall email marketing strategy that feeds into every point of the customer journey can all help both marketing and sales teams  Embrace the power of segmentation, craft compelling email campaigns, leverage email marketing tools, automate nurture campaigns, track and optimize campaign performance, and most importantly, embrace continuous learning and improvement. The world of email marketing is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay ahead of the curve, so make an effort to learn from industry leaders, discover innovative strategies, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends to ensure your email marketing efforts remain at the forefront of success. Need a little help, or to have all of this done for you? Contact Mayple and allow us to connect you with a vetted email marketing consultant in less than three days!
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Marketing strategyHow to Create Impactful Email Marketing NewslettersEmail marketing is a powerful tool, but how do you create newsletters that truly make an impact on your audience? Below, we dive into the strategies and techniques you can use to craft compelling email marketing newsletters that engage your subscribers and drive results. Meet the expert Andrew Royal, a seasoned marketing executive with nearly a decade of experience, is the founder of RevOps. He specializes in helping SMBs optimize revenue operations through data-driven strategies. 1. Start with content The foundation of impactful email marketing newsletters is content. Understand what your audience wants and what resonates with them. Use A/B testing to determine the language and tone that resonates with your subscribers and optimize your email content accordingly. You should also regularly analyze your email metrics, such as open rates, click-through rates, and conversions, to gauge the effectiveness of your newsletters. This data-driven approach will help you continuously improve and deliver valuable content that engages your audience. 2. Craft punchy subject lines The subject line is your one-second hook in the inbox. That's why you want to create short, attention-grabbing subject lines that entice recipients to open your email. Avoid deception; your subject line should accurately represent the email's content to foster and retain trust. Are you using Mailchimp? Check out our guide on creating newsletters in Mailchimp. 3. Ensure skimmability When reading emails, most people start with the call to action first, and if it resonates, they'll go back and read the entire thing. So, make your content skimmable by using headers, bullet points, and concise paragraphs. A well-structured email enhances the reader's experience and improves their chances of fully understanding and retaining the information you're trying to convey. » Need help creating content? This guide might be of help. 4. Customize imagery You should also tailor your email's imagery to your audience's preferences. Some may respond better to lifestyle images, while others prefer product-focused visuals. The point is to adapt your visuals to align with your subscribers' expectations to create a more personalized and engaging experience for your audience. Plus, the more tailored and relevant your imagery is, the stronger the connection you can build with your subscribers. 5. Watch your tone and language Consider your audience and industry when determining the tone and language of your emails. Again, skimmability is crucial, so avoid lengthy, complex sentences and consistently match your tone to your brand's voice. Of course, you may need to use industry-specific jargon if you're in the B2B space, but you can still do so without creating 40-word long sentences. » Want to write better email preview texts? Start here. 6. Create a sense of urgency Drive action by creating urgency in your emails. Use email engagement tactics like limited-time offers or countdowns to encourage immediate action from your subscribers. Another effective way to create urgency in your emails is by highlighting the scarcity of a product or service. Emphasize that there are only a limited number available or that the offer is exclusive to a certain time period. This will motivate your subscribers to take action quickly before they miss out on the opportunity. 7. Balance promotional and informational content Strike a balance between promotional and informational content. Offer value beyond your products or services. Share helpful tips, guides, or industry insights to engage your audience. » Speaking of guides, this one will teach you all you need to know about email audits. 8. Optimal email frequency There's no one-size-fits-all answer for email frequency. It depends on your audience and content. The most important thing is to maintain consistency; subscribers come to expect emails at specific times. Avoid overwhelming them with too many emails in a short period, though, and be mindful of not sending too few emails so that they forget about your brand. Finding the right balance is key to keeping your subscribers engaged and interested in your content. » Here's how to figure out how many emails you should send per month Common mistakes to avoid Sending multiple emails on the same day with disjointed topics: If you're running multiple initiatives at the same time, be very careful that you're not running on the same day as another campaign.Putting subscribers into a funnel and just letting them funnel run: To avoid this, carefully schedule drip campaigns to complement your regular email schedule. Unlock the power of email marketing Implementing these strategies and avoiding the common mistakes we mentioned can go a long way to enhancing your email marketing efforts and can help achieve better results. It all comes down to understanding your audience, crafting compelling content, and most importantly, being consistent. Ready to scale your marketing campaigns?
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Conversion10 Best Ways to Make Money Using Video in Email MarketingHarnessing the power of video in email marketing isn't just a trend but a proven strategy for boosting engagement and revenue. In fact, 90% of marketers say video has helped them get more leads. Unlocking the potential of video in your email marketing efforts offers a range of exciting possibilities, from showcasing your products to engaging your subscribers with personalized content. By following these best practices and innovative approaches, you'll boost engagement and capitalize on videos' unique ability to convert leads into revenue. 10 ways to use video in email marketing Product demosPersonalized video messagesVideo testimonials and reviewsProduct spotlightsHow-to videosBehind-the-scenes videosInteractive videosCustomer success storiesExclusive offers and promotionsWebinar invitations Meet the expert Jameela Ghann is a seasoned online store owner with over a decade of eCommerce experience. Apart from running Alora Boutique, she's also the marketing manager for Fera Product Reviews. 1. Product demos Product demonstrations are a powerful way to give your audience a firsthand look at your offerings. They enable potential customers to see your products in action, gaining a better understanding of their functionality and benefits. How to implement it Create videos that display your products in practical scenarios.Provide a clear explanation of your product and its key features.Show how your product works, highlighting its unique selling points and benefits.Use visuals and storytelling to share your product's story and improve engagement.Ensure your video features a compelling call to action (CTA) that guides viewers toward purchasing or exploring further. » Creating a new product? Here's how to launch products successfully with email marketing. 2. Personalized video messages Personalization is the key to making your audience feel valued and appreciated. You can create personalized videos by addressing subscribers by their names, locations, or individual preferences. This tailored approach fosters a deeper connection between your brand and customers, enhancing customer engagement and building long-lasting brand loyalty. How to implement it Segment your email list based on factors like location or past purchase history.Craft tailored video content that speaks directly to each segment's unique characteristics and preferences.Address subscribers by name to personalize your videos and grab the recipient's attention. Make product recommendations that align with each subscriber's unique style and preferences.Ensure your CTA is explicit, encouraging viewers to explore further or make a purchase. 3. Video testimonials and reviews Leverage testimonials and reviews from satisfied customers to establish trust and credibility. Real-life customer experiences are persuasive and can drive sales. You can use Fera.ai to automatically ask each customer for a video review a certain number of days after delivery. This can help boost your conversion rates and business growth. How to implement it Gather authentic video testimonials and reviews from satisfied customers on platforms like your website, social media, and third-party review sites.Create short video clips featuring these testimonials, including visuals of the product or service for context.Personalize the video content for your target audience, making it relevant to their interests.Conclude each video with a clear CTA, guiding viewers to explore further or make a purchase. 4. Product spotlights Create short and engaging videos that showcase your products or promotions. Provide information on discounts, unique selling points, and how to purchase. These videos can effectively drive conversions by capturing the viewer's interest and providing essential information. How to implement it Carefully choose a product aligned with your email marketing campaign goals and audience.Craft an attention-grabbing subject line to engage recipients.Use an appealing, responsive email template design.Highlight key product benefits and unique selling points in the email content. 5. How-to videos Develop educational videos that demonstrate how to use your products or offer valuable tips and insights related to your industry. This approach can establish your brand as an authority and provide added value to your subscribers, making them more likely to engage with your emails. How to implement it Develop concise video tutorials that show customers how to best use your products.End each video with a clear CTA to encourage further engagement.Segment your email list to target the right audience with relevant how-to videos.Track video performance through metrics like open rates, click-through rates, and viewer engagement. » Track your campaign's performance with these Microsoft Excel email marketing report templates 6. Behind-the-scenes videos Give your audience a peek behind the curtain by showcasing what happens behind the scenes at your company. Highlight your team, production process, or the creation of your products. This can humanize your brand, connect with your audience, and drive interest in your offerings. How to implement it Plan and capture authentic moments behind the scenes, showcasing your team, processes, or product creation.Craft engaging narratives within your videos to captivate your audience.Use these videos to build trust by highlighting transparency in your operations.Encourage audience interaction through questions, comments, and feedback. 7. Interactive videos Incorporate interactive elements within your videos, such as clickable buttons or forms. These can collect user feedback, preferences, or contact information, enabling more personalized follow-up and increased revenue generation. How to implement it Start by designing compelling content that fits your audience and campaign goals.Select a reliable platform that supports interactive features within videos. Several tools and software can help you achieve this, such as HapYak, Cincopa, or Playable.Incorporate clickable elements within your videos. These could include buttons, links, or forms that viewers can interact with.Strategically place CTAs within the video to guide viewers on their next steps. 8. Customer success stories Customer success stories in email marketing provide compelling, real-life examples of satisfied customers benefiting from your products or services, inspiring trust and encouraging other subscribers to take action. How to implement it Collect customer stories showcasing product benefits and positive experiences.Request detailed testimonials or success stories from satisfied customers.Create engaging content, including written narratives or video interviews.End each story with a clear CTA for the next step. 9. Exclusive offers and promotions Use exclusive offers and promotions in your videos to entice and reward your email subscribers, driving engagement and sales. How to implement it Create compelling video content that highlights your exclusive offers and promotions.Include a strong CTA that encourages viewers to take advantage of the offers.Segment your email list to target subscribers who are most likely to be interested in these exclusive promotions.Monitor the performance of your videos and exclusive offers, making data-driven adjustments as needed to optimize engagement and sales. 10. Webinar invitations Use video to invite your email subscribers to exclusive webinars or events related to your industry or products. This can pique their interest, educate them, and potentially lead to revenue generation through future product purchases or subscriptions. How to implement it Create an engaging video invitation that highlights the value of the webinar and communicates event details.Include a registration link or clear instructions for easy sign-up.Encourage interaction by inviting questions or engagement before the webinar.Follow up after the webinar with a thank-you email or video, along with additional information, offers, or opportunities for further engagement. Here is an example from Hubspot: Harness the power of video in email marketing to beat the competition Using the right videos in your email marketing campaigns requires a deep understanding of your target audience, well-defined and measurable goals, and a commitment to creating high-quality, engaging content tailored to their interests. Prioritizing the user experience, keeping up with the latest email marketing trends and technologies, and embracing a customer-centric approach are the keys to success. At Mayple, we understand the power of email marketing and are dedicated to making it even more effective for you. We can connect you with a successful email marketing expert who can assist with setting budgets, building strong email lists, and expertly segmenting your audience.
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Email MarketingEmail Spam Rates: Cracking the CodeEmail marketing is vital to modern business strategies, providing companies with an efficient and cost-effective way to reach their target audience. But you can't expect to run successful email marketing campaigns if you don't pay close attention to your email sender reputation and spam rates. So avoid sending unwanted emails to your mailing list, and join us is delving into the world of email spam rates from an email marketer's perspective: from the challenges email marketers face, to the consequences of high spam rates and strategies to reduce them, as well as the future of the email marketing journey in the ever-evolving landscape of digital communication. Let's do this! What is a high spam rate? In the case of email marketing strategy, a high spam rate is when a disproportionately large amount of your emails are getting sent to spam folders instead of people's regular inboxes. A high spam rate tells you that either you're not keeping content relevant to your audience, or your contact list isn't mostly made up of your target audience. The industry standard spam rate is less than 0.1%, or 1 complaint for every 1,000 sent messages. Anything above this level means your email sender reputation is on the line, as is your reputation as a brand. In other words, you need to reassess your email program – fast! Top factors that influence spam rates Sender reputation One of the most significant challenges for eCommerce email marketing is ensuring that their messages reach the intended recipients' inboxes. High spam rates can lead to deliverability issues, where legitimate emails end up in spam folders or are blocked entirely. This not only affects campaign success but also damages the sender's reputation. Email content Email content plays a significant role in influencing spam rates. The content of an email can impact whether it is classified as spam or delivered to the recipient's inbox. Email filters, including those employed by ISPs (Internet Service Providers) and email service providers, analyze various aspects of email content to make this determination. Spam reports Spam reports play a crucial role in influencing spam rates and email deliverability. When recipients mark an email as spam, it provides valuable feedback to email service providers and internet service providers (ISPs). These reports determine the sender's reputation and whether the email should be treated as spam.  Email frequency Sending too many emails can have a detrimental effect on spam rates and email deliverability. When email marketers send a high volume of emails without proper segmentation, targeting, and monitoring, they can fall into a spam trap. It creates a recipient overload and increases the likelihood of emails being marked as spam. Email design looks spammy Spammy-looking emails, characterized by certain visual and content elements that resemble common spam tactics, can significantly impact spam rates and email deliverability. Email filters and anti-spam algorithms are designed to identify and flag such emails to protect recipients from unwanted or malicious content. Unsubscribing (because of spamming) Unsubscribing from email lists typically has a positive impact on spam rates and email deliverability. When recipients use the unsubscribe button provided by legitimate email senders, it helps improve deliverability rates and reduce the likelihood of emails being sent straight to the junk folder. What happens if you have a high spam rate A high spam rate can lead to significant consequences and challenges for legitimate senders. These include even interested email subscribers not seeing your future emails, or worse, getting banned by email providers or slammed with legal fees or other repercussions. You want to make sure that your email marketing efforts are not making people regret ever giving you their email addresses, and beyond that, you want to convert them into potential customers who appreciate your brand and email communications. Prefer to have some expert help? Hire an email marketing consultant vetted by Mayple. We'll match you with the best one for your industry, in a matter of days! How to measure spam rate So now you might be wondering how to find out whether you've been sending too many spam emails to your list. Here's how to find out: SpamAssassin Score SpamAssassin is an open-source email filter used to identify and filter out spam or unsolicited emails. It assigns a "SpamAssassin score" to each incoming email, which indicates the likelihood that the email is spam. This score is also known as the "spam score" or "spam threshold." Complaints In the context of email marketing, "complaints" typically refer to when email recipients report or express dissatisfaction with the emails they receive from a particular sender. Options available via the email client are standard for spam complaints. These are a significant concern for email marketers, as they can have negative consequences for a sender's reputation, deliverability, and the overall success of email marketing campaigns. Email bounce rate An email bounce rate is a metric that measures the percentage of emails sent in an email marketing campaign that don't successfully reach the intended recipients' inboxes. Instead, these emails "bounce" back to the sender for various reasons, such as the recipient's email address being invalid, the recipient's mailbox being full, or the email server being temporarily unavailable. How to reduce your spam rate When it comes to cracking the code of reduced spam rates, let us delve deeper into what you can do to reduce your spam rate and ensure optimal email deliverability and reputation! Employ double opt-in verification Implement a double opt-in process, where subscribers confirm their subscription after signing up. This helps ensure that your subscriber lists genuinely want to receive your emails. Make sure everyone opted in over the last 12 months Consent Freshness: Subscribers who have opted in within the last 12 months are more likely to be active users who remember and recognize your brand and consent to receiving your emails. Their engagement is more recent, indicating they are active and interested in your content. Weed out inactive users who will likely end up hitting that spam button anyway.  Don't buy or exchange mailing lists Purchased email lists often contain email addresses of users who have not consented to receive emails from your organization. These recipients may have no prior knowledge of your brand, products, or services. Sending unsolicited emails to these people is highly likely to raise the percentage of emails reported from your campaigns, as well as lower engagement, and increase unsubscribe rates and spam complaints. Include a visible unsubscribe link Including a visible unsubscribe link in your marketing emails is not only a user experience best practice but is also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions, including the United States under the CAN-SPAM Act and in Europe under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Indicate how the contact got on your list Indicating how a contact got on your email list is an important aspect of transparent and ethical email marketing. Transparency and trust are key. Clearly communicating how a contact was added to your list builds trust with your subscribers. It shows that you are open and honest about your email marketing practices, which can lead to a positive perception of your brand. Send welcome messages A welcome message serves as a confirmation email to the subscriber that they have successfully subscribed to your email list. It reinforces their decision to join and confirms that their email address is valid. This can be part of a greater sequence of onboarding messages that preps folks for the kind of future messages they'll receive from you. Your emails should come from the same domain contacts signed up Emails that come from a different domain than expected can confuse and concern recipients. This may lead them to look for that spam button. Sending from the same domain that contacts signed up with minimizes the likelihood of spam complaints. Personalize and segment your communications Personalized emails and well-segmented lists are key to reducing spam rates in email marketing by enhancing the relevance and engagement of your emails. When subscribers receive personalized content that is tailored to their interests and needs, they are less likely to consider those emails as spam. Don’t send too many emails... Over-emailing your subscribers can lead to "email fatigue," where recipients become overwhelmed with the volume of emails in their inbox. As a result, they may start marking your emails as spam to reduce the clutter. This is where a feedback loop is incredibly helpful in moving towards a strategy where every single email you send is relevant to your audience. ...But also don’t send them sporadically If subscribers are not accustomed to receiving emails from you on a regular schedule, they may be more likely to mark sporadic messages as spam emails. Inconsistent sending can confuse or irritate recipients, prompting them to report your emails as unwanted. Regularly remove and reactivate inactive subscribers Inactive users who never open or engage with your emails can negatively impact your email list's overall quality. Sending to a large number of inactive recipients can lead to high bounce rates and a percentage of emails reported as spam. Mention the business name Including your business name in the "from" field or within the email content adds transparency and authenticity to your emails. This transparency helps recipients recognize your brand and understand the source of the email. Keep your emails relevant Relevant emails are more likely to be opened, read, and acted upon by recipients. When subscribers engage with your emails by opening, clicking, and taking desired actions, it sends a positive signal to email service providers (ESPs) that your emails are legitimate and valuable. The challenges of reducing spam reports Evolving spam tactics Cybercriminals are constantly developing more sophisticated phishing techniques. These can include highly convincing email content and fake websites designed to steal sensitive information. As phishing emails become harder to distinguish from legitimate messages, it can be more challenging to filter them out effectively. Lack of understanding of what spam is The ambiguity of the term: The definition of spam can vary depending on the context, jurisdiction, and individual perspective. Some may have a narrow view of spam, associating it only with illegal or malicious email, while others may not fully understand the broader concept of unwanted or irrelevant email. Evolving email marketing practices: The field of email marketing is continuously evolving, with new tactics and technologies emerging. What might have been acceptable email marketing practices in the past may no longer align with current best practices, leading to confusion. Lack of education: Some email marketers may not have access to comprehensive training or educational resources on best email marketing practices and spam regulations. They may not be aware of the potential consequences of spam-related activities. Some spam mimics legitimate emails Spammers may exploit legitimate email services to send their messages, making it more challenging for spam filters to block them. They can use compromised accounts or create free email addresses on well-known email platforms, making it difficult to distinguish between legitimate and malicious senders. You've conquered spam rates! Email spam rates present significant challenges to email marketers. High spam rates can lead to deliverability issues, damage sender's reputation, reduce email engagement, and result in legal and financial risks. However, with the right strategies in place, email marketers can mitigate these challenges and navigate the evolving landscape of email marketing. Maintaining list hygiene, obtaining explicit consent, personalizing content, implementing authentication protocols, and complying with regulations are all essential components of reducing spam rates and improving campaign success. Moreover, email marketers must stay attuned to the changing landscape of email marketing, leveraging technology and best practices to remain effective in reaching their target audience. In the future, email marketing will continue to evolve, with AI, privacy, mobile optimization, and enhanced personalization playing significant roles in shaping the industry. Adapting to these changes and maintaining a commitment to responsible and relevant email marketing practices will be crucial for success in the years to come. Prefer to have some expert help? Hire an email marketing consultant vetted by Mayple. We'll match you with the best one for your industry, in a matter of days!
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RetentionRetention Email Marketing: How & Why It WorksMost business owners have heard that it takes around 5-7 times more spending to gain a new customer than it does to retain an old one, which means that increasing your customer retention by a small margin can lead to much higher profits with a more predictable revenue stream. One of the best ways to engage your customers more with your product and build stronger relationships with them is to have a solid retention email marketing campaign in place. Meet the expert Jurgen Stojku has almost a decade of B2B and B2C marketing experience in many industries, including SaaS and eCommerce, and is currently the Head of Marketing for TinkerList.tv. The importance of customer segmentation Before retention emails, it was enough for marketers to send generic emails in mass volumes, but today's landscape is filled with so much competition that this is no longer adequate. With so many companies trying to steal clients from you, a single bad experience can lose you a customer permanently. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to this; you have to get to know your customers, understand what they like and want, and learn how they behave so that you can personalize their experience and provide real value. Email remains the most important marketing technique with low cost and high potential, but you have to target the right customer. A mechanic doesn't want to receive emails about baking, and incorrect targeting can make customers unsubscribe or never purchase again. How to segment your customers The more data points you have, the better. Some good things to keep track of in e-commerce include: Purchase history (both the item choice and the purchase value)Cart abandonment rateTime spent on siteWhen and where they drop offLifetime value » Learn more about this with our marketing packages What to include in retention emails You should have a combination of promotional and informative content so that you are trying to provide value and answer questions alongside selling products. Start your email with pain points based on your segmentation data, and then introduce the value that your product offers, combined with a promotional deal. In e-commerce, discounts and exclusive offers work extremely well so long as you understand the segmentations. Consider these strategies for better retention: Discounts Find customers who have purchased a few products from you already, and then offer them a 10%-15% discount on similar products.Upselling Have a customer that just purchased a set of golf clubs from you? Send them an email with some complementary products, such as golf balls, tees, or even shirts.Cross-selling If you notice a customer abandoned their cart, send them an email informing them of similar products to what was in their cart. Maybe even attach a discount. Any of these strategies can help build brand loyalty and keep your customers coming back for more. How to time your retention emails There's no absolute answer when it comes to timing your retention emails and it depends largely on your customers' segmentation. It takes some intuition to figure out the best time for a particular email, but you should always try and target your customers the moment they need something. For example, let's say you are a fashion e-commerce brand. You won't want to promote summer swimwear to your customers in the middle of winter when they aren't interested, but sending your emails in the middle of summer might already be too late and you might have lost sales to other brands that timed it better than you. Instead, you should anticipate your customers' needs—in this case, swimwear for the approaching summer—and target them the moment they start thinking about summer, such as early spring. Once you've got a few hits, you can start pushing a little harder with other summer clothing items, such as sundresses or hats. Seasonal offers Don't forget about seasonal offers aside from summer! For example, tech brands should start promoting their Black Friday deals a month or two in advance to start building the hype and urging customers to save up for your premium deals. Year-round products Certain industries aren't necessarily bound by these seasonal rules, but there are still many factors that can determine the optimal timing for retention emails! For example, if you are a premium coffee brand, you can use customer data to identify the average time it takes for your customers to finish their supply and repurchase from you, then target them with emails as you get closer to the time, reminding them to refresh their supply instead of finishing it unaware and settling for the store-bought generics. The best part is that there are many services that can automate this process with the data you provide so that you never have to worry about missing an opportunity. The future of retention email marketing Many of the processes handled by people will eventually become automated and managed by AI. Especially with the state of the global economy and record-high interest rates, more and more businesses are realizing the benefit of retaining existing customers instead of spending extra money for the chance to obtain new ones. How AI will benefit merchants In time, automation will be able to streamline the entire process from customer segmentation to retention email marketing, making it far more efficient. It'll be able to refine the data you provide in order to create much more specific segments, which will lead to better personalization and the ability to provide your customers exactly what they want at the price they're willing to pay, enhancing your customer retention. Is retention email marketing worth it for smaller businesses? While it's important for businesses to spend some of their resources on acquiring new customers, this isn't always the best approach among smaller companies without a large pool of disposable funds. However, they should never neglect putting in the effort to retain their existing customers. Retention email marketing is worth it for all businesses, regardless of size, and can even be an effective strategy for acquiring new customers. Email marketing is more cost-effective and makes the process of convincing repeat customers to make additional purchases far easier than acquiring new ones. Additionally, promoting your business as a brand that advocates for community and relationships with their customers makes it far more likely that they'll advocate for you and convince their friends, family, and followers to check you out.