A couple of weeks ago I started collecting list building tips from colleagues, connections on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and my own list. My intention is to publish a mega list of tips to help you build a responsive and lucrative list – something I frequently get asked how to do.
Well, I created a monster project for myself. I received 39 responses, some in video, audio and most as text. Nearly 30% of those who responded offered this tip in one form or another: give away a valuable freebie. OK, I think that's a pretty well known tactic. Many of the tips go deeper and I'm in the process of evaluating and categorizing them so I can present you with a list of list builidng tips that makes sense.
Since it's taking me longer than anticipated I'm going to share with you the first tip I received in response to my request. This comes from Derek Halpern, founder of Social Triggers and an expert in email conversion so it makes sense to kick of the series with his tip…
The best way to build a responsive AND lucrative list is much easier than you think.
If you want people to respond, and buy your products, you NEED to respond to them.You NEED to interact with your subscribers.It's not about just sending email broadcasts to thousands of people……It's about connecting with each and every one of your subscribers, one-on-one, every chance you get."Why," you ask?If you connect with people, they'll remember you, and respond to you, and your email broadcasts.What's the best way to connect with your subscribers?There's something I call the "What Are You Struggling With?" question.I wrote about it here, but here's the short summary: when people sign up for your list, inside your welcome email, ask your subscribers what they're struggling with, and invite them to reply to the email.Yes, you'll get a bunch of emails, but when you respond to each person individually, they'll remember you. They'll be so shocked that you took that personal approach that they won't resist opening your emails.For example, over at Social Triggers, when I send out email broadcasts, it's not uncommon for me to see open rates over 60%.Yes, 60%.Right now, some people are often happy with 10 to 20% open rates.And here I am, sporting 60% open rates.Why are my open rates so much higher than everyone elses?Since I've taken the time to connect with people individually, they look for my emails, and they know when they email me, I respond to them personally.And that's it. Be personal AND responsive, and you should be good to go.
I am struggling big-time with my list building! I needed this. Thanks for sharing!
Denise, the timing of this post is impeccable.
I’m getting really chagrined and I’m about an inch away from crossing over the “I quit” line with list building and, in particular, email marketing.
I’m beginning to suspect my subscribers have developed cataracts or fallen into a coma.
“Responsive” is the KEY adjective but I can’t seem to get my list to respond to anything.
I sent out a message this past week asking them to hit the reply button with a quick yes or no (I listed some topics and asked if any or all of them were of interest). I also asked them to feel free to mention anything they need help with or want more information about.
NO replies. Oy.
Derek Halpern and I have had some really great conversations via email. He definitely walks his talk! For some odd reason, though, his approach to using the “personal touch” with my list isn’t cutting the mustard.
And here’s a scenario that’s played out on a continuum …
Most every time someone unsubscribes from my list, they send along a gracious little note saying, “I really like your stuff but I’m getting way too many emails from way too many people. Best of success to you.” I hate to keep on this negative vein, but I think there’s some semblance of truth in the “email overload” syndrome. How to combat that issue? I’m clueless.
One thing I pride myself in is “communications”. I’m a good writer, speaker, and I’ve worked with the public for forty years. My interpersonal skills have been honed to the max.
“Building a responsive and lucrative list”? I wish.
Speaking of giving good free content, this blog post is exactly that, Denise! Very well put about taking the time to interact with people personally whenever possible. Thank you!
Denise and Derek – LOVE the tip re: ask subscribers what they’re struggling with – perfect! It ties in with Seth Godin’s blog post today re: open conversations. Thank You! Ande
This is a good idea, Denise. Create content by crowd sourcing questions…