Mailing Lists and Email Marketing are vital business tools

It’s almost inconceivable how many companies and websites do NOT gather one of the most valuable elements of marketing – and it’s FREE!  Simply getting your clients email address can be an enormous marketing tool and ultimately be a cash cow for your business.
I remember about 15 years ago while running a local brick and mortar business, and we decided to gather peoples mailing addresses.  Pretty cutting edge stuff back then, lol.  Really before email was “big”.  But by gathering just our own clients’ information, we were able to send them postcards or fliers for upcoming sales, specials and events.  The results were staggering.
Now, with everyone having email, it makes it even easier (and cheaper).  With the utilization of a service like MyEmma, Constant Contact or the like, you can send out emails for literally pennies.
Now, I’m not suggesting to send your clients emails everyday bugging them to buy your product or service – as we all know, that simply does not work, and even is counter-productive.  But sending out periodic information (useful information), helpful tips and tricks, as well as the occasional new product offering or hot item is a terrific way to not only engage your client base, but also keep top-of-mind awareness.  Do not discount that element – top-of-mind awareness.  Reportedly, Coca-Cola spent close to $11 BILLION marketing dollars in 2012 – do you really think all their efforts are just to show a polar bear drinking their product?  No, they, along with other major soda brands are driving home top-of-mind awareness.
Imagine if you have a roofing company, or a local insurance agency and a huge storm just came through your area.  Just afterwards, an email goes out to your client base something of this nature: “We at XYZ Company hope all of you are safe after this most recent storm.  If you have had roof damage and need it covered – please give us a call and we’ll gladly tarp your roof for you.  We are here and helping our community.  There is NO COST for this – we are here to help you protect your family and your home.”
Now, this goes out and let’s say only 5 people call you.  You go out and spend $500 on tarps (that you will get back by the way) and a little man power.  Take a guess on who those people will prefer to replace or repair their roofs.  As a genuine act of kindness, and some savvy marketing, you probably gain $25k +/- in sales.
Now this is just one example, but as you can see, a pretty powerful example.  But this same type of scenario (and others) can be applied to help your business grow.  Email marketing is NOT dead and if used wisely, can be a huge marketing tool for your company.  Start building your mailing lists today!