6 Proven Strategies to Build Your Business Email List and Reach More Clients

Jonathan M. Gardey, MBA, CFA®, CFP®

President and Chief Executive Officer

Did you know that email marketing has one of the highest rates of return (ROI) on digital marketing investments for business owners? According to a 2020 study by Litmus, the median ROI for email marketing is 42:1. In other words, for every dollar spent on email marketing, the average return is $42. That’s why building an email list has become so essential for business owners. It’s like having direct access to potential clients 24/7. 

So how do you do it?

Building an email list is like building a relationship - it takes time and effort, but the payoff can be huge. In fact, it is one of the most effective ways to grow your business and reach out to potential customers. A solid email list not only helps you to stay in touch with existing customers, but also allows you to market your products or services to a wider audience. 

Think of building your email list like trying to impress a potential date - you want to make a good impression and stand out from the crowd.

Here are some tips on how to build your business email list so you can reach more clients and potential clients right away:

1.    Create a sign-up form on your website

The first step to building your email list is to make it easy for people to sign up. Create a sign-up form on your website and make it visible to visitors. Consider positioning your sign-up form in a prominent location, such as the header or sidebar of your website, and make sure that it stands out visually. Be sure to ask for only the necessary information, such as name and email address.

2.    Offer incentives for signing up

People are more likely to sign up for your email list if they receive something in return. Offer incentives such as exclusive discounts, free content, or a free trial of your product or service. This can encourage visitors to provide their email address and ultimately convert them into customers.

3.    Leverage social media

Social media is a great way to promote your email list and attract new subscribers. Share your sign-up form on your social media pages and encourage your followers to sign up. You can also create social media-specific offers and promotions to attract new subscribers.

4.    Attend networking events

Attending networking events is a valuable way to meet new people and potential customers. Think of it like a speed-dating event. You only have a few minutes to make an impression, but if you play your cards right, you could walk away with a list of potential customers. It's like being a detective - you have to collect clues (business cards) and follow up with them later.

5.    Use paid advertising

Paid advertising can be an effective way to promote your email list and attract new subscribers. Platforms such as Facebook and Google allow you to target specific audiences based on interests, demographics, and behavior. Use compelling copy and visuals to attract attention and encourage sign-ups. 

6.    Use a lead magnet

A lead magnet is a valuable piece of content that you offer in exchange for someone's email address. This can be an eBook, whitepaper, or webinar. The key is to make the lead magnet relevant and valuable to your target audience. You don’t want them to be disappointed or let down once they opt in. Always deliver on what you promise in your offer, so you don’t lose that potential customer’s trust.

Email is Your Direct Line of Communication to Your Potential Clients

As a business owner, you know the pain of trying to reach new customers. It can feel like shouting into the void, hoping someone will hear you. But with a solid email list, you have a direct line of communication to people who are already interested in what you have to offer. It's like having a secret club where you can offer exclusive deals, helpful information, and resources that will build trust and credibility with your leads.

Building your email list takes time and effort, but the benefits are worth it. By following these tips, you can create a strong email list that helps you to grow your business and reach new customers.

We’re Not Just Your Financial Partner at Gardey Financial Advisors

At Gardey Financial Advisors, we understand your business is your largest asset and you want guidance on how to optimize your objectives. If you are a business owner or entrepreneur looking for a financial advisor who can connect your personal and business finances in a way that works for your own financial goals, we encourage you to schedule a call to learn more about our services and see if Gardey Financial Advisors could be a good match. We best serve clients looking for exceptional client service, who value a long-term partnership, and have a minimum of $500,000 in investable assets.

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Return on investment (ROI) is calculated by dividing the profit earned on an investment by the cost of that investment.