Posts Tagged ‘Lists’

What is one crucial, critical and often forgotten element of marketing planning? Building a targeted list! Targeted lists allow for stronger marketing implementation and can save an immense amount of resources. Yet it’s the thing that many marketers forget to plan for when preparing their marketing activities.

Here are just a few highlights of proper list planning:

1. Use me, use me…just don’t abuse me!

How will your list be used? Email campaigns? Direct mail? Cold calls?  Determining how you will use your list affects what data you need to collect for your list.  That can save you a lot in regards to time and money!

2. If you build it, more will come!

Start collecting data as soon as possible and keep it up! If time constraints are an issue remember that a small, targeted list is preferable to a huge, random list.  Offer ways for people to opt-in to your list so that the list grows with potential clients wanting to receive your messages!

3. Remember the “collective!”

Pulling together a new list? Make sure you consider adding in past business contacts. These people have already been your customers and are more likely to buy from you in the future. Just make sure what you are marketing is appropriate for them! Otherwise, save that past client list for another time.

4. Tell All!

Meet someone who may be interested in your services? Invite them to join your list. Put opt-in options on your website. Mention it on your email signature. Talk about it through your social media. Avoid high pressure tactics, but make sure people know you are happy to share your information and invite them to join your list!

5. List P’s & Q’s

Lists are business goldmines and require care and management. People may opt-in, opt-out, update, provide wrong info, and more. Make sure you schedule time to spend managing your list properly or risk upsetting potential customers!

And of course, what do we always say? Integrate, integrate, integrate! Don’t forget to think about all elements of your services and how best to integrate your lists for maximum exposure and oomph!