3 Big Mistakes to Avoid When Building a List

Sometimes size really doesn't matter!

It's not simply a matter of throwing every technique you can at your mailing list in the hope of getting the maximum number of email addresses. While you might be able to get more subscribers in the short-run this way, in the long-haul this will actually create more problems.

Check out these three common mistakes that many business owners and marketers make in a bid to quickly swell their numbers:

Giving Away the Wrong Freebie
Giving away freebies as incentives is a great way to encourage more people to sign up but it can also create problems. In particular, if you give away something that is 'too good' then you can attract subscribers who are only interested in getting free things; good luck getting them to pay for products later on!

On the other hand though, if you give away an eBook or report that is sub-par, then you'll risk demonstrating to your subscribers that you don't deal with quality. Again, good luck getting them to buy from you later down the line.

Not Getting Targeted Subscribers
Similarly problematic is not trying to target your subscribers. In other words, if you are giving away a product that isn't in your niche, or if you are attracting subscribers from a random source, then they won't be your target demographic. A list of random emails is no more useful than a solo ad, so do try to find people who will actually be interested in what you have to say. Better yet, try to develop a relationship with them first via some content marketing.

Doing Everything Yourself
Many business owners want to do everything themselves as a way to save money. That, and your typical entrepreneur is naturally a control freak. But by doing everything yourself you will not only waste valuable time but you will also risk doing a worse job than a professional would have done. Need a landing page written but can't write? Then consider hiring a writer. Need a web design made but don't have the eye for detail? Hire a designer.

Just as important is to use the right tools. Things like OptimizePress and UnBounce can drastically simplify the process, so don't stubbornly try to do it all in notepad. 

Avoid these three mistakes and your list will grow faster and be much more relevant as a result!

To your success!
Lindsey
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