How to Avoid Spamming With an Email Marketing Campaign
Spam, the mention of the word conjures images of all-caps emails carrying dangerous malware or offers of discount prescription medicines. Although the thought of spam can be a scary thought for regular computer users, for those planning an email marketing campaign, it can be a downright nightmare. Although your marketing campaign may have a legitimate basis, users may incorrectly identify your emails as "Spam," which will send your marketing efforts into a tailspin. So how do you prevent this? While no formula is 100 percent effective at keeping Spam labels at bay, there are some simple things that you can do to make your marketing scheme less "Spammy."
Instructions
Difficulty:
Step 1
Limit message frequency. One of the easiest ways to accidentally fall into the "Spamming" category is by sending messages too often. If a user is constantly bombarded by emails, they are more likely to trash messages they see constantly in their inbox. It is important to remember that many users check email only once or twice daily, and sending a message many times in a single day can definitely send the wrong message. Aim for once or twice a week at the most to increase the effectiveness of your message and prevent it from going straight into the "Trash" file.
Step 2
Use emphasis with care. Although using all caps, bold lettering and underlining can sound like a great way to add emphasis, what it really does is give the recipient the feeling that someone is yelling. Instead, let your message speak for itself. Include rich, informative text, and pictures of your product, service or charity at work. These methods will be more likely to gain your reader's attention than some bold text effects.
Step 3
Keep formatting simple. Though it might seem like a good idea, filling your marketing email with long paragraphs and extensive lists or tables may actually make your message seem too complicated. This in turn can turn off readers, and will make it easier for them to dismiss your message as spam.
Step 4
Include prominent "opt-out" links. If someone does not want to receive your messages, but does not see a way to discontinue receiving them, then your messages have a good chance of being considered spam. However, including a prominent opt-out message not only stops delivery of your marketing materials to uninterested customers, but it also instills confidence in those who want to continue receiving messages, as they do not feel like your message is being forcibly pushed on them.
References
Tips & Warnings
- Do not send unsolicited emails, as these are very likely to be reported as spam. Only send marketing materials to those who have either signed up to receive them or have volunteered their email address for marketing materials. Sending unsolicited emails is a sure way to be labeled as spam and can get you reported to the Better Business Bureau.
Article Written By Amanda Kondolojy
Amanda Kondolojy has been writing professionally since 2007 and currently writes full-time as a staff contributor at "Cheat Code Central." She also contributes regularly to her Disney-themed blog, Adventures in Pin Trading. Kondolojy holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and political science from George Mason University.