While many people have developed barriers and filters to keep their email account spam-free, there are also many people out there that WANT to subscribe to the newsletter/mailing list of businesses they like to keep updated on their new products, specials, and other news. These people expect to be kept up to date on your business and what you have to offer.

All businesses need customers like this. To get potential customers to opt-in for your newsletter or mailing list you need to first gain their trust. Once they trust you, you’ll be rewarded with their loyalty more often than not. Many people have gone to great lengths to keep their email accounts spam free and when they finally trust you enough to give their email address, do not abuse that trust.

In order to build your business, you need to build your opt-in list. The faster you can build your list, the faster you’ll see more sales and more profit. So now, how do you go about building that list ? How do you get people to sign up for your list ?  It’s easy really, it takes a little time, but the end result and rewards are well worth it.

** Gaining the trust of your customers shouldn’t be that difficult if you’re running a legitimate business. The more expertise you show the more customers will trust you. They will look to you for answers and support, so be sure to be consistent in the service you provide.

** Show your customer that you do know what you’re talking about. Provide them with helpful instructions and guidelines that relate to the items you’re selling. If you sell handcrafted wooden signs, then talk to you customers about proper mounting, where to hang their signs to get the longest life from them, what to avoid, etc.

** Give your customers value ! Show them that they mean something to you, that they’re more than a name or a sale. Handwritten thank you cards after a purchase go a long way in making a customer feel like they’re more than just dollar signs to you. The more satisfied customers you have, the more likely they are to recommend you to a friend, family member, or co-worker. Generally people trust those they know, so if a customer recommends you to a friend or family member, you can safely assume that friend or family member will come to you too.

** Most importantly is be transparent and open with your customers. Always make sure your opt-in list has a way for customers to unsubsribe easily. Include links for them to unsubscribe in each newsletter you send out.

Remember, when someone trusts you enough to give you their email address and join your opt-in list you need to sure you don’t lose that trust. NEVER share their information with others !