5 ways to grow your email list

Email marketing is hands down one of the best ways to connect with your customers. An email list isn’t just a bunch of names — these lists give you direct access to customers. Unlike with a social media post where you can’t be certain if customers see your posts, emails go straight to customers’ inboxes.

Email delivers one of the highest returns on investment of any marketing channel. Since many of your customers may only visit your shop a few times a year, your email list is your best tool for staying connected with customers and bringing them back in.

Power of consistency

Growing your email list should be an ongoing effort that pays off big time when you stick with it.

Don’t stress if your list seems small. Every single subscriber is a chance to build a strong relationship. It’s not about size — it’s about how you engage with your audience.

"Your email list is your best tool for staying connected with customers and bringing them back in."

Growing your email list

If you’re ready to get more people on your email list, start with these five simple strategies:

• Track your growth: Set a goal and check on it monthly. Knowing where you stand keeps you motivated and helps you tweak your strategy as needed.
• Offer a lead magnet: Give people a reason to sign up! Consider providing them with a discount they can use before they leave town or a digital “Coastal Insider” guide for their next trip.
• Loyalty programs: Encourage repeat visits by offering perks such as early access to next season’s products or special discounts for returning customers.
• Form partnerships: Partner with hotels, restaurants or attractions in the area to cross-promote and capture more visitors.
• Simplify sign-up: Make it effortless for customers to connect with you by having a sign-up sheet at checkout, a QR code that links to your sign-up page and reminders on receipts.

Make it happen

Want real results? Start by setting a simple goal. Write down how many email subscribers you have now and then set a number that you want to hit in 30 days. Then pick just one strategy from this list and commit to making that happen.

Your email list is a direct line to the people who love what you do. When you focus on growing and nurturing your email list, you’re building a stronger, more profitable business that can weather any storm, even in the off season.

---

Cathy Donovan Wagner helps store owners scale sales past 7 figures. Check out her Richer Retail Podcast: www.retailmavens.com/richerpodcast.