E-mail is a key part of most omnichannel marketing strategies, Yet dodging spam filters and reeling in responses from crowded inboxes is an ongoing challenge. A recent Direct Marketing News article laid out some basic tips on how to get the most out of e-mail marketing. First, data matters. Even the most well-crafted e-mail will end up in spam folders if delivered to an e-mail list with too many duplicates, outdated addresses, missing permission hygiene, spam traps, etc. Quality e-mail data is essential to deliverability, which means regular cleaning and updating of house lists, or carefully vetted rental lists (sponsored e-mails) for prospecting. Quality data is also key to the targeting that maximizes response, using segmentation and personalization to tailor offers and messaging to specific audiences and individuals. Once an e-mail lands in the inbox, the subject line, a brand's first impression, impacts open rates. While there are few absolute guidelines, be aware that 50-70 characters in length is the "sweet spot" for readability, per the article. In those few characters, the subject line needs to quickly convey an offer/value and tone that intrigue the audience. Beyond avoiding words and symbols likely to trigger spam filters, A/B testing is usually the best way to find which subject line leads to higher open and click rates, as the article advises. While focusing on a first impression, too many e-mail marketers forget the importance of a closing impression. For example, after gaining response and conversion, marketers can use transactional e-mails (e-mails acknowledging a purchase, donation, sign-up, etc.) to expand customer/donor value by offering a reward (discount on next purchase as an example), a loyalty program, a newsletter, social links and more. When it comes to design, the key to success today is the ability to translate across desktop, tablet and mobile devices. Remember, research shows that more than two-thirds of consumers access e-mail through their smartphones! Plus, e-mail isn't usually the only method for connecting with an audience, or necessarily the channel preference of all recipients. That's why e-mails also should highlight social media buttons, invite readers to share content, or urge them to visit appropriate social pages and profiles, as the article notes. For more tips, see http://www.acculistusa.com/want-e-mail-marketing-success-here-are-some-basics/
