Maybe you've heard of autoresponders. They're online systems set up to help marketers deliver an automatic message directly into an email inbox. Autoresponders are so great because a prospect voluntarily signs up to receive your message. They are opting in, and giving you permission to send them information. Autoresponders are an excellent way to promote products, services, newsletters, and web sites.

I have three autoresponders that are actively working 24/7 to deliver my special messages to eager information seekers. You're probably wondering how do you get people interested in signing up for your autoresponder message. It's simple: Give them some information they want!

You've gotta offer something of value by way of their interests. Someone visits your web site looking for some specific niche information and hopefully your site delivers just what they are looking for. Now, the autoresponder is there as an extra special offer. The subject matter should be related to the subject of your web site. Don't try offering something completely unrelated to what your targeted visitors are interested in.

Can you think of something extra you can offer your visitors?

What about an eCourse on how to .. .?

What about some tips on how to .. . ?

What about some secret sources you discovered for the best .. . ?

See how easy it is? I'm sure you can find some additional information to pass on to your visitors on a wide range of subjects. Autoresponders aren't just for the big marketers—anyone can set one up and stick it on their web site.

Now what is the benefit of an autoresponder to you?

One big benefit is additional TRAFFIC to your web site. This is a hidden benefit that many people don't think about. Every message should have your web site URL. This message is sponsored by: www.mywebsite.com. Your autoresponder service should make it easy to create live html links embedded in the body of the message. Your subscribers only have to click on the link to visit the site you promote. Actually, I promote several sites via my messages, although I've found that again, for best results, the additional sites should be related to the subject matter of the messages.

Keep in mind that you probably won't get a ton of traffic, but more like a steady trickle. Yes, those that have visited your site before may re-visit your site via your autoresponder link, IF they are reminded. Also, there may be an individual message that someone wants to pass along to a friend—more exposure for you!

Another benefit is the ability to promote affiliate products to your subscribers without the guilt of feeling like you're annoying or spamming someone. Remember, they've given you permission to contact them with your information, so there's no reason why you can't offer products that will benefit them as well. Please don't abuse this permission. Don't get greedy and stuff your messages with several products. Your subscribers will be turned off and you won't make any sales.

You can see how many people have subscribed and opened your messages by logging into your account manager area. Your autoresponder statistics offers you a good insight into how many messages your subscribers are opening and if they're clicking on your links.

Is it hard to set up an autoresponder?

Not at all. I'm no techie, and I chose a service that is literally as easy as using my word processing program. Look for a service that offers ease of use, convenience, and a variety of ways to utilize your autoresponder. Oh yeah, and unlimited messages is a must. Each message should also offer an automatic opt-out. Although, I still find that a few people will send me an email to take them off the list (because they are unaware of the opt-out link). You should also be able to log into your account and easily remove them manually.

A good autoresponder service will also make it easy for you to insert the subscriber name automatically, as well as, create a custom welcome message. This is a very important feature since it's been proven that personalization makes people feel more comfortable with you, the message creator. By the way, the person's name is extracted automatically from the subscriber box.

What is the cost of an autoresponder?

The cost varies depending on the service you use. Most will give you an option for a monthly subscription, quarterly payments or one yearly payment. You'll need to decide if gaining extra visitors to your web site, subscribers to your newsletter or making additional affiliate sales is worth the cost of the service.

An autoresponder can be a great addition to your web site and can be an extra marketing force that works for you twenty-four hours a day. It really is a “set it and forget it” tool that can help you gain an edge in the competitive online world.