What is the best way to build an email list from scratch? | Marketing Q&A

Building an email list from scratch can seem daunting, but it’s absolutely doable and a critical part of any successful marketing strategy. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Start with your network: Reach out to your existing contacts—friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances—and let them know about your new business. If they’re interested, ask them to join your email list. Do not just automatically add someone … your email list will always have the best results if it only contains those people who are actually interested in what you have to offer.

2. Leverage social media: Even if you don’t have a website, you can still use social media platforms to gather email addresses. Promote your email list on your business’s social media profiles and encourage your followers to sign up.

3. In-person events and brick & mortar locations: If you have a physical location or attend in-person events, you can collect email addresses in person. Just make sure you have a system in place to add these to your list. It can be as simple as dropping their business card in a fishbowl, slips of paper for them to put their information on, etc. Just make sure that if your plan is to add them to your email list, that is prominent.

4. Use a CRM or spreadsheet: As for where to keep this information, a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is ideal, but if you’re just starting out, a simple spreadsheet can work too. The most important thing is to be able to keep track of the information (include unsubscribe requests).

5. Provide value: People are more likely to give you their email address if they’re getting something valuable in return. This could be a discount code, a free e-book, or access to exclusive content. If you’re just starting out, you may want to try a few. Or, schedule a Fractional CMO session with me, and we can create some together.

6. Don’t forget about GDPR: Lastly, it’s important to remember that you need to comply with GDPR and other privacy regulations when collecting email addresses. Always get explicit permission to send marketing emails, and provide a way for people to opt out.

I always recommend that you have a website for your business, even if it’s a very simple one to start. And that the website have a way to collect email addresses. Here’s a couple of related articles you will want to read:

• Myth: I Don’t Need a Website Because I Have Social Media
• How Can I Afford a Website for My Business?
• Important Website Advice for Your Small Business

As soon as you get a domain, set up professional email there instead of relying upon generic @yahoo, @gmail, @hotmail or similar. It will help your business look more professional.

And ideally, you will want to use a mass email platform, so that you can send emails to everyone on your list (or segments that you define). I prefer MailChimp, it’s easy to use and is free for up to 5oo contacts; although there are lots of options and the right one may depend upon your unique needs. Keep in mind that many of the “funnel” sites that bill themselves as email platforms may have many bells and whistles that some businesses can never really use and cost you extra.

Remember, building an email list takes time, but it’s worth the effort. It’s a direct line of communication with your audience and a powerful tool for nurturing leads and driving conversions. Good luck – and let us know if you need help!

Vicky