The number one question that my clients have when they want to start to move their business online is — how do I get people to buy my products online. The simple answer to this question is — build a list of people are really interested in what you do. Once you build the list — people will come... Here are some tips to building a list of subscribers who are eager to hear what you have to say.



Your number one goal in putting together the list is to keep your customers happy. If you are truly marketing to your ideal clients, they will love what you do and look forward to having information from you in their inboxes. They will forward e-mails to their friends and associates and your web site traffic will grow.

When your website gets more traffic, you can entice them to join your e-mail list by offering a free report, an e-course (a series of emails delivered over a set period of time - David LeDoux is a master of this — check out his 90 day internship program). Yes, you can use your list to sell products, but the most important thing is to build a relationship and trust. Your customers need to know that you are there to help them succeed.

E-mail lists are a great way to advertise. They are low-cost. You only need to have an autoresponder subscription (for more about picking the right autoresponder for you — sign up for my e-course) which can cost as little as $10 per month. An autoresponder manages lists, makes sure that you are in compliance with CAN-SPAM by adding your signature/physical address to the bottom of the e-mails and giving you the option to ask users to confirm their opt in to your list. They are also very targeted because they people who are on your list have asked to receive information from you.

Customers who subscribe to your list expect to get information about your products, deals promotions, etc. But, you need to give them what they expect, or they will unsubscribe. Here are some tips that can help you build a list of eager subscribers.

1. Make your marketing materials interesting and fun. Have your web site reflect your theme, logo and colors. Come up with a signature line in your e-mail that relates to your business brand.

2. Know your audience. Visit forums, find out what they want to know. A great way to do this is to ask readers questions. What are their biggest problems, how can you solve them. Also, read blogs and forums of of people who also serve your audience — try to find new ways to help your audience achieve their goals. Your audience will love hearing from you because you always have fresh new ideas to share with them.

3. Write articles that are interesting, light and informative. If your subscribers like your articles, they will click on your page to learn more. Articles are a great way to showcase your expertise and use all of the content that you have developed as part of your coaching or consulting practice. This is also an area where you can range a bit afield. If a topic interests you, even if it isn't strictly in your niche, go ahead and write an article up. A good virtual assistant can help you to submit the articles to as many places as possible.

4. Create an e-book. An easy way to systematically meet your article, blog and e-book writing needs is to put together an outline of the e-book and use it as an editorial calendar for your blog. Edit the blog posts a bit and turn them into articles. Ten or so articles can become a short e-book. Put the articles together, write some transitions and you are done. The book doesn't have to be long 10 -20 pages is a good start. Include links in the book back to your site. Share the book with anyone and everyone. This is your calling card — your way of showing off your expertise.

5. Create a loyal reader club by offering coupons and discounts in your newsletter. People will eagerly look for your newsletter in anticipation of saving some money on your valuable services.

6. Finally, don't flood your client's inboxes with mail. You want your clients to look forward to hearing from you. Check your e-mail open stats and find the right frequency for your audience.

Good luck and happy list building