Email-the most overlooked marketing tool
While most of us use email every day to conduct business, most do not think of it as a marketing tool. Now, we all know it cost less to keep the customers you have rather than to go out and acquire new ones. So we can probably also agree it makes sense to invest a little time and effort to retain as many of those customers as possible.
Email services make the task easier
Email is cheap (no postage or printing costs) and since the recipients know your business name, they are more apt to pay attention to your emails when they land in their inbox. You may claim you’re not “computer savvy” or “don’t have time” but that’s just an excuse.
I’m here to tell you that you don’t need to be a computer geek to send out a great looking email and you’ll be surprised at how little time it takes. There are many companies out there that do most of the work for you and some are even free. They will manage your database of email addresses, provide templates for your emails and provide reports so you can see who opens your emails.
All this, along with a user-friendly interface makes implementing an email marketing campaign quite easy. In fact, most have tutorials to help you get started on the right foot.
Ideals for email marketing
- Quarterly newsletter with tips and articles that pertain to your business
- Announce new services or products
- Showcase seasonal services or products
- Specials or discounts for current customers only
- Thank you for their loyalty over the years
Customer appreciation
The emails shouldn’t always be trying to sell something. Clients will appreciate any articles or tips meant to help them solve problems or save them money. Keeping in touch with current and past clients will increase your chances of retaining them long term so that when they need your services again, they will call you and not be tempted to call your competitor.
Invest some effort into keeping your current customers and it will pay off big time.
