Email Marketing

Email marketing is still an effective way to market your business. However ..... business looking to promote themselves through direct emails need to understand the rules and regulations set forth in the CAN SPAM Act.

The rules of the CAN SPAM Act really just tell you not to do anything deceptive in sending mass emails such as using fake sender addresses, offering recipients an "opt-out", and putting the senders physical address and company name in the email. Most of the rules are simple and easy to understand after you read the FTC guidelines.

Remember, you do not have to have permission to send the first email, but if people request to be removed from the list, you must not email them again. Multiple complaints could result in a Federal fine or blacklisting of the sender domain by Google or other email service providers.

Generally speaking I do suggest that you make direct emails an important part of your marketing plans. However, other communication means are definitely starting to be used effectively. RSS feeds or newsletters are a great way for individuals to get the continuing information they need with out having to "check" their emails. I will continue to research new methods currently being used and post those findings on a ongoing basis.