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Tips to Getting Email Campaigns and Newsletters Opened

September 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment

How many subscribers open your email campaigns and newsletters? If your open rate is lackluster, perhaps it’s time to reevaluate your subject lines. Believe it or not, most subscribers take 2-5 seconds to decide if they’ll open your email. Does your subject line make them want to open your email? Why would they care about your email? Why should they open your email? Like it or not, your subject line matters. Avoid the SPAM folder with these tips.

Tip #1: Send yourself a ‘test’ email to make sure your subject line is distinct enough. Make sure you can easily read your email.

Tip #2: Keep subject line to 5 to 8 words. Did you know that subject lines that are 7 words or less (30-40 characters) have a 42% open rate? Keep it short, simple and catchy.

Tip #3: More people are reading emails on mobile device. Did you know that 67% B2b (business-to-business) and 55% B2C (business-to-customer) use mobile devices to read emails? How will your email campaign or newsletter look on mobile device? Remember, mobile devices use 15 characters in the subject line which means you need to convey your message with fewer words.

What’s the purpose of your email?

1. Does it answer why?
2. CAN SPAM Act … Clearly identify the purpose of the email.

Tip #4: Make sure you match the method and tone to your brand. Use language your audience understands. For example, if your target market is 50-70, don’t write a subject line such as “OMG! Get 50% Off + Free Lady Gaga CD With UR Purchase Today.” Your target market may not understand what it is you’re talking about.

Tip #5: Don’t over promise or use an overly clever/deceptive subject line because it could come back to haunt you.

Tip #6: Subject lines that attract attention clearly state an offer or offer free shipping.

Did you know that 48% of emails are opened because of brand recognition (or sender)? Other reasons are readers are curious, an immediate answer is promised (30.3% of emails are opened), short, promised to solve a specific problem, funny or has your brand/name on it.

Tip #7: Avoid ‘spam’ terms such as CAPTIAL LETTERS, Free, $$$$ and excessive punctuation!!!!

Tip #8: Alternatives to the word ‘free’ are Our Treat, On the House, Be Our Guest, Just for You, Giveaway, Zero Cost and Complimentary.

Tip #9: Like it or not, using ‘top’ works. For example, “Top 10 Reasons, Top 5 Priorities, Best 7 Tips and Tricks or Top 7 Need-to-Know Strategies.

Before and After Subject Line Examples

Before : Our Monthly Tax Newsletter
After: 7 End of the Year Tax Tips

Before: Go Green Association Newsletter
After: 10 Easy Tips for Going Green

Before: Fantastic Seventy Percent Reduction
After: Save 70% Off Your Total Furniture Purchase Today

Before: Get a free iPad
After: Receive a Free iPad with a One-Year Subscription

Before: Please take this survey
After: Help Us Improve Our Services

Before: Annual Fundraising Coming Soon
After: LGBT Teens Need Your Help. Attend “Everyone Matters” on September 17 and Make a Difference

Before: Attend Our Upcoming Event
After: Only Four Days Left to Register for Our Social Media Bootcamp 5.0

Tip #10: Create a sense of urgency by using the following alternatives to free:

~ One Day Left to Register for SEO Workshop
~ 7 Hours Left to Sign Up for This Special Offer
~ Register by 7 pm on September 16 to Take Advantage of This Offer

Tip #11: Using the word ‘Exclusive’ in the subject line generates a 24% opening rate on email campaigns.

Tip #12: Be personal, and you’ll make a make a warmer impression. For example, use “you, yours, we and us” in your email campaign or newsletter.

Tip #13: Ask a question. For example, “How would you like to grow your Facebook fan page by 50%?” Tailor your question for each email list.

Tip #14: State the benefits such as tips, tricks, how-to and secrets.

Tip #15: Read and reread your subject line before sending an email.

Tip #16: Know your email campaign open rate for your industry. Industries such as marketing and PR have a 13.5% open rate, medical services have 16.7% and so forth. *Varies from industry-to-industry.

Tip #17: Test subject lines to improve your open rate. Use the A/B Testing in which you split your email list in half (make an exact copy of the email). One half receives an email with one subject line, the other half receives the same email but with a different subject line. Analyze and compare the results. Note: you could send targeted emails to specific email lists.

Did you know that 69% of people click on ‘spam’ based on the subject line alone? This means subscribers are opting out of your emails. It could possibly hurt your reputation. If subscribers don’t recognize you or your brand, they’re less likely to open your emails. You can avoid this by ensuring your subject line is well written; includes your name, acronym for your business or the name of your newsletter. Recognition is vital to getting your emails opened.

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Filed Under: Clients, Freelance Writing, Overcoming Obstacles, The Bottom Line with Rebecca, Tips and Tricks Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

How to Communicate with External and Internal Customers

September 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Simple Linear Communication Model

Image via Wikipedia

As a writer, I pay attention to what people write and say. I do my best to be an astute listener and reader. Communications is my business. Lately, I’ve been reflecting on my previous work experience and the communications I’ve had with people over the years. I think about the emails I wrote and received over the years and want to cringe. I often think, “Did I write or say that? Did that person write that? What were they thinking?” You really don’t realize the impact of your words; unless, you take a step back and think about it from a reader’s perspective. You can’t control how someone will react; however, you could read and re-read your correspondence and think about how it may be received. How you speak and what you write does matter.

How to communicate with external and internal customers

1. Listen to people. Don’t interrupt people when they speak. Hold space for them where they feel ‘safe’ to openly speak their mind. Try your best not to ‘judge’ them or their words, thoughts. This can be easier said than done. Do your best to really listen to people, it will make a difference in your business and life.

2. Read and reread emails. It’s too bad I didn’t keep the emails I wrote and received. Oh well! I could always ‘recreate’ them, not. Before you send an email, it would behoove you to read and read it. What is the tone? How will it be received by the recipient(s)? Keep in mind, you can’t control how people react; however, you could take a step back and review what your words. Are they encouraging? Are they hostile? How do your words motivate people? Will they want to work with or for you? Ask these and other questions before you send an email.

3. Understand your target audience. Your audience may not understand the ‘lingo or jargon’ used within your business. Always be aware of your audience. You don’t want them to say, “What the heck is he/she speaking about?” If you’re target understands the industry lingo then by all means speak their language.

4. You need people. Let’s face it; you won’t be in business long if your customers and employees leave. A few months ago, Piers Morgan interviewed Donnie and Marie Osmond; they were big (still going strong) in the 1970s. Donnie said, “I’m an entertainer. It’s my job to entertain people.” He’s right. If people don’t purchase tickets to see Donnie and Marie’s show in Vegas, Donnie and Marie will be sent packing. Unless, of course; their families buy ALL of the tickets and sell out the show every night. I don’t think that will happen.

5. Say “Thank You” once in a while. It won’t kill you to say “Thank You” for working for me or purchasing my products and services. Let people know they matter to you. Remember, you won’t get far without the help from others. It’s something to think about.

Rebecca

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Filed Under: Clients, Freelance Writing, Networking, Overcoming Obstacles, Tips and Tricks Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

How to Generate Leads and Sales

September 7, 2011 By 4 Comments

What is marketing? Marketing is about sharing value with new and existing customers. It’s not about being pushy or manipulating potential customers into purchasing your products and or services. Its’ not about treating people as if they’re cats; waving sparkly, razzle dazzle marketing campaigns in front of them won’t work. They’ll see through the ‘smoke and mirrors’ and walk on. Follow the strategies below to generate fruitful leads and sales.

10 Lead and Sale Generation Strategies

1. Partnerships. Form partnerships with ‘like-minded’ business owners that have the same target market as you do. There’s strength in numbers! You could combine resources and opportunities. Hold events and maximize your expertise. You can grow your business by strategically working with others.

2. Speaking engagements. Most people would rather have root canal than speak in front of an audience. But it will pay for you to get over your fear of public speaking. Speaking allows an audience to experience your passion first-hand; they’ll be able to see and get a ‘feel’ for you. They’ll be able to assess your sincerity and knowledge. People like and feel comfortable working with people they know. More importantly, the best form of advertising is word-of-mouth. All it takes is one person to tell someone else about you and before you know it, the word will spread that you’re an expert in your field.

3.  Content writing. This includes article and blog writing; eBooks, newsletters, press releases and other writings. Provide unique and timely content to your target market. Build relationships with your target audience by providing relevant and useful tips, tricks, tutorials, newsletters, eBooks, etc. Customers and potential customers should be able to implement your information straightaway.

4. Networking. Attend various networking events and get to know people in your field or those who compliment your business. Build relationships and ask, “What can I do for you? How may I help?” You’ll be surprised by the reaction you receive.

5. Link exchanges. This is a great way to increase your visibility. Make sure you exchange links with those who complement or match your target audience.

6. Referrals. Ask current clients/customers for referrals. Most business owners don’t like to ask for referrals; however, it’s in your best interest to ask for them. Let’s face it; if your customers are happy with you and your products/services, why wouldn’t they want to refer you?

7. Social media. Focus on two to three social networks and stick with them. The top three are Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. However, you may find that Tumblr, StumbleUpon, Bebo, Flickr, Digg or another network works better for you and your business. Keep your ‘target audience’ in mind when you utilize social network sites. For example, did you know that 72% of Facebook users are ages 25-54? If your target audience is teenagers, they may prefer Tumblr to Facebook because their parents want to ‘friend’ them on Facebook and they don’t like that.

8. Teleseminars and webinars. If you decide to conduct a teleseminar or webinar, please provide attendees with substantial information, not 60-90 minutes of a fluff and sales. I’m speaking from experience. I’ve attended many, many teleseminars and webinars and thought, “I wasted 60-90 minutes of my time for this; I didn’t learn anything. Why did I sign up? What was I thinking? I was hooked, line and sinker. I’m not the target market. This was nothing but a ‘sales’ fest.”  Potential customers will be turned off if your teleseminars and or webinars are nothing but a sales promotion.

9. Direct mail. If you’re new to an area, introduce yourself to local businesses. They won’t know about you unless you tell them you’re available to solve their problem. You may consider holding a promotion that’s specifically for the businesses in your area.

10. Podcast and or video series. Have you ever wanted a career in radio or television? Creating a podcast (you could use Blog Talk Radio) or video series could do wonders for you and your business. You can use programs such as Audacity to quickly and smoothly create valuable podcasts. You’re probably familiar with YouTube. Keep podcasts under 15 minutes; videos between 5-10 minutes. Some people want to get the most out of a podcast/video in the shortest amount of time. If you’re podcast or video is too long, you may lose customers.

Rebecca

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Filed Under: Freelance Writers, Freelance Writing, Networking, Overcoming Obstacles, Social Media, The Bottom Line with Rebecca, Tips and Tricks Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Cool and Useful WordPress Plugins

September 5, 2011 By Leave a Comment

If you use WordPress.org, you’re probably familiar with plugins. Make sure you don’t go overboard with plugins because your hosting company may not have the ‘space’ for your website if it contains a lot of plugins. Of course, you could purchase a ‘higher’ hosting package that gives you more space on a server. It’s something to think about. Anyway, here are cool and useful WordPress plugins for you to check out and use on your website.

If you’re worried about spam, WordPress.org has an Askimet plugin that catches spammers. For example,I have the following message on my WP Dashboard, “Akismet has protected your site from 21,271 spam comments already. There’s nothing in your spam queue at the moment.” I’ve been using WordPress.org since 2009 and never had a problem with Askimet.

To make your blog posts easy to retweet, use TweetMeme. It’s simple to download and upload to your plugins folder via your FTP system. Hint: Most hosting companies have their own FTP. But you can always use an external FTP.

How many times do you ‘thank’ people for leaving comments on your blog? If you don’t, consider using Thank Me Later which automatically sends a ‘thank you’ to visitors that leave comments on your blog posts. BTW: I wish I knew about this one because I was ‘manually’ sending emails to visitors. Better late than never!

Does it irk you when readers don’t leave thoughtful comments? Install Minimum Comment Length to improve the quality of comments left on your blog posts. Let’s face it; leaving a “Great post! Good post! Thank for the information!” doesn’t cut it. You want people to leave engaging, thought provoking comments.

Unfortunately, some visitors to your website may not have good intentions. Use WTC Comment Cleaner to strip out malicious and unwanted code such as css, javascript tags, etc. It’s good to have a ‘high level’ of security on your blog/website.

Some visitors may or may not appreciate the Comment E-Mail Verification plugin because they’ll have to login to their email and ‘verify’ their comment by clicking on the link that’s sent to them. Once they click on the link, their comment will be approved and automatically posted. This is a good way to engage visitors. No email is send if Askimet or some other plugin recognizes the comment as spam.

Do you have a newsletter? How would you like to build your list? Use the WordPress Newsletter plugin to ‘collect’ subscriber information such as name and email address. Please read the user guide to get the most out of this plugin.

Do you feel like a ‘head case’ when it comes to SEO? You could use the All in One SEO plugin or try HeadSpace 2 SEO. If you spend too much time worrying about SEO, HeadSpace2 SEO will make your troubles disappear. HeadSpace provides a video that explains ‘How To’ use the plugin.

How many times do you backup your WordPress website? Download and use WP-DB Manager to backup your files. You can backup, repair, restore, delete a backup, etc. with this plugin.

*Some of the plugins are compatible up to 3.2.1. If WordPress upgrades to WordPress 3.3, some plugins may not work unless they’re updated too.

Rebecca

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What Doesn’t Attract Clients and Customers

September 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment

This is a reprint from Barb Wade, M.A. who specializes in teaching Coaches to create thriving, 6-figure practices in under 20 hours a week!  For a FREE “How To Get Clients” BUSINESS BREAKTHROUGH KIT just for Coaches, visit BarbWade.com today and tomorrow gain new clients and customers.

Please note: Even though this post is targeted to coaches, every business owner needs to market their business. Remember, “You’re in business to solve a problem and market your business.” If your web content, blog posts, articles, newsletters, marketing materials, etc. aren’t working, perhaps it’s time to evaluate your target market and analyze if you’re targeting the right market. You may need to ‘tweak’ your market, even if it means losing Twitter followers, Facebook fans, etc. Think about the long-run versus the short run.

Some coaches just don’t like marketing. They don’t like to promote themselves and they may even find it distasteful! In fact, until I learned that marketing was nothing more than letting others know how I could help them with their biggest problems, I thought marketing was a “necessary evil” at best.

On the other hand, there are some coaches and entrepreneurs who have no problem with marketing – or so it seems. BUT they use it as an excuse for not moving forward or to “hide out.”

Do you know what I mean? It’s the endlessly tinkering with your website.

Or taking forever to craft your “elevator pitch,” and then never actually using it!

Or spending tons of time, energy, and money getting just the right logo… or business card… or… well, you get the idea.

Of course, doing this comes from good honest intentions. Those things do help support spreading the word about your services. But it’s all too easy to get stuck in an endless loop of tweaking and fiddling with the minutia.

The truth is, doing so can actually keep you from getting clients!

Here’s the big news: your clients aren’t attracted to your coaching practice because of your business card, logo, website, or any other collateral. Even if they are really beautiful and elegant and “cutting edge.”

Yes, those things can help get your potential client’s attention, but that’s not what holds them or compels them to come back.

Ultimately, your clients will respond to the connection you create with them. Those people that you are meant to help will resonate with your authentic and unique brilliance. It is you being willing to share your experience and expertise – in the way that only you can – that makes an impression on people.

Your clients want to be seen, acknowledged, heard, understood and helped by you. And the more they get to know the real you, the more they will want to continue to work with you.

This is the concept behind the “Know, Like, Trust” factor you may have heard of. It works like this. First, your potential clients hear about you somehow – on the Internet, at a live event, on a tele-seminar, etc. And the more they get to know you, they more they begin to “like” you (note: this is not a popularity contest. Instead think of “like” as “appreciate” or “value”) And the more they like you, they more they begin to trust you as a teacher, advisor and friend.

And what I have found is that when you cultivate that kind of connection with your market, it actually accelerates your ability to attract clients and it makes your work so much more joyful!

So, if you find yourself spending too much time “crossing all the T’s and dotting all the I’s,” try adopting this mantra that was taught to me by one of my mentors: “Completion Not Perfection.”

Get into action and get it done – perfection is highly over-rated!

Barb Wade, M.A. who specializes in teaching Coaches to create thriving, 6-figure practices in under 20 hours a week!  For a FREE “How To Get Clients” BUSINESS BREAKTHROUGH KIT just for Coaches, visit BarbWade.com today and tomorrow gain new clients and customers.

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