Top 10 List Building Techniques

When it comes to list building, there is no right way or wrong way. There are only tips, suggestions, rules and strategies. However, the irony is that none of the enlisted methods guarantee good results. On the basis of my experience, I can confidently say that list building is a perfectly scientific method, where you have to understand, follow and repeat a set of techniques. These list building techniques are neither conceptual nor magical. They are absolutely real, and if followed sincerely, they yield real results. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s take a look at them.

1. Start a Reciprocal Process
   Whenever someone gives you something you really need, you feel greatly indebted. This strong sense of obligation persuades you to repay that helpful person. In social psychology, this phenomenon is called reciprocity, and we can use it in our list building efforts. You can start the reciprocal process by offering your prospective subscribers a free ebook or a free report or some valuable ‘how-to’ information. If the gift is good, the recipient would naturally develop a sense of obligation, and would repay you by becoming a member of your list.
2. Exceed the Expectations
   How do you feel when you purchase a product and you get more than you had expected? You simply feel great. Let your subscribers also get the same feeling. By over delivering, you can solidify the relationship with your subscribers as well as compel them to spread the word about you. Free viral marketing means more subscribers and a bigger list. There are so many ways to exceed the expectations. For instance, you can buy master resale rights of an ebook or a digital product. Give it away to your subscribers free of cost. Don’t worry; you will recover the cost price as soon as your list reaches a commendable size.
3. Arouse Urgency
   When something valuable to us is available in limited amount, then we panic like anything, and spare no effort to grab it immediately. Both scarcity of time and quantity generate results. Hence, messages as “It’s free for first 50 people who subscribe” or “Offer available only up till 5:00 PM, so sign up now before they are gone” work equally well. Make sure that the gift you are offering is a good one, and strictly stick to the deadlines.
4. Give a Convincing Reason
   Studies have shown that by giving a convincing reason, you can double the probability of a person joining your list. However, only valid and believable reasons have the capability to increase the response rate. Therefore, work hard to build a credible reason.
5. Numbers Count
   Messages like “4,697 Subscribers in One Month and Still Counting” attract attention instantly. Such messages do two things; first, immediately arouse positive thoughts about you in the reader’s mind, and second, persuade the reader to subscribe.
6. Show-off Your Expertise
   Plaques, awards and testimonials serve to establish you as an expert in your field, and people simply love to get advice from an expert. In your sales letter and squeeze page, remember to insert all the praises you have received up till now. Boast your expertise as much as you can. This will generate trust and persuade people to join your email list.
7. Top-class Endorsements Make a Difference
   Companies spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on celebrities who endorse their products. You neither need celebrities nor multi-million dollar deals. All you need is a respectable person who is happy being your subscriber. People who are well known and respected in your field of interest are also celebrities, and your prospective subscribers would readily believe their words. So try to get good words from them. Now, how do you do that? Simple, give them a free sample or membership and get their testimonials.
8. Make Comparisons
   These days, people hardly have time to analyze, decipher or even think. Hence, it is essential to make everything obvious. By making comparisons, you can help people realize the true value of your subscription and thereby convince them to join your list.
9. Dig up Similar Interests
   People usually prefer to interact with like-minded individuals. Thus, try to dig-up some similar interests between you and your prospective subscriber. The moment a person identifies with you, he will join your list.
10. Emotional Persuasion is Necessary
    When all the other methods fail, then emotional persuasion works. You just have to uncover the personal desires of your prospect and make his want his need. A compelling sales letter would do wonders in this case. However, remember not to irritate the reader else you would loose the person forever.

til next time…

Tagged with: join your email list • List Building • opt-in email list • Squeeze Page

Filed under: Internet Marketing • List Building

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