How to Use Newsletters as a Listbuilding Tool

If you’re looking for a way to build a list of targeted prospects, why not consider using newsletters to get subscribers? Using newsletters as a listbuilding tool is an often overlooked tactic that is very effective for creating a targeted directory of prospects.

You can use newsletters effectively to build lists and to keep subscribers coming back to your website. Here are five ways to use newsletters to build your lists:

Place your opt-in form above the fold.

You must make it easy to subscribe to your newsletter. Place it above the fold so that customers can see it as soon as they land on your website. In order to increase readership, place your opt-in form above the fold on each page. That way, as visitors review your site and gain interest in what you have to offer, they won’t click away and forget to subscribe.

Offer niche-specific information in your newsletter.

Publishing newsletters is a great way to build your reputation as an expert in your target market. Do a little research to offer up-to-date information to your subscribers. Your goal is to not only establish yourself as an expert but to be first in the minds of your subscribers when they need answers. People tend to gravitate toward experts, so take the time to really dig into the research and provide your subscribers with the information they want and need.

Use newsletters to provide free resources to your list.

The Law of Reciprocity is a powerful tool. Use it to provide free resources, and your subscribers will most likely respond by becoming cash-paying customers. Create a list of resources that will help your subscribers so they’ll read your newsletter, not delete it. If they know you’re looking out for their best interests, they’re more likely to become loyal customers.

Pack your newsletters with quality tips and tricks.

Keep in mind that the goal of your newsletter goes beyond providing information; you must also offer tips and tricks to make your subscribers’ lives easier. Study your niche to determine your subscribers’ needs and be generous in your suggestions.

Remember back to the time when you were new to the niche. What questions did you have? What problems did you need to solve? Take care of your subscribers, and they’ll take care of you by becoming customers.

Offer quality content in your newsletters.

If your newsletter is full of fluff, your subscribers will not open it each month. To build a connection, provide quality content – information they can actually use. End each newsletter with some “teaser” content to let readers know what they can expect in the next newsletter. That way, they’ll look forward to the next issue. You don’t want your subscriber list to become inactive due to disinterest.

The golden rule of listbuilding is to be generous. The more you give away, the more you’ll receive in return.  Newsletters are a fantastic avenue for providing an ongoing stream of the information your customers need, as well establishing you as an expert in your niche market.