What are Some Offline Options to List Building for Email Marketing?

Email is one of the internet’s most popular and widely used services.  Naturally, marketers using  it as their promotional vehicle employ a broad range of online methods to grow their audience.  These methods are definitely effective and recommended, but building your opt-in list is not limited to cyberspace.  Here are some options available to those who want to grow their email marketing list off as well:

If direct mail is a part of your existing marketing mix, then using it to build your email list is only practical.  All the mail you send out should be complimented with copy that encourages recipients to sign up for your mailing list.  Sure, this may take some time, especially if your list is of a decent size.  However, it is an investment that will pay off time and again.  By slowly converting your list from direct mail contacts to email contacts, you will eventually reap the benefits of lower costs and more efficient communications. 

If you are actively involved in your field, asking for contact information at industry conferences and trade shows would be a great way to acquire new prospects for your list.  This could be done with the traditional paper form, or even the same form on your website.  Bring your laptop along with you and people can sign up just as they would online.  This spares you from having to add the names to your master list later.  Because some people interested in what you have to say may not feel comfortable doing this, keep yourself open to collecting their business cards so you can at least contact them and try to get them on your list at a later time. 

Taking advantage of printed materials is another effective way to spread awareness about your email marketing efforts and build your list.  Simply include the URL to your opt-in page and put it on all your printed materials.  This URL should be included on flyers, catalogs, and other items you use to promote your business out in the real world.  When using this method, remember that it is very important to explain the benefits of signing up for your list.  Whether it is free incentives or special offers, make sure it is something that gives them a reason to sign up.  

There are many companies that run their business both on and offline.  If this is how your business operates, you can use that to your advantage to build your mailing list.  For example, you can ask customers to provide their email address when they make a purchase at your store or establishment.  You could also leave forms laying around near the cash register and let them know that you are actively seeking subscribers.  Incentives can be just as effective in this case, so don’t hesitate to broadcast the value as it will entice people to sign up.

Aside from what has been mentioned in this article, getting out and meeting new people is a great way to build your email marketing list.  The more people who know about your business, the more people will want to keep in touch and communicate with you via email.