Have you already made your resolutions for 2014? Maybe you’d like to go to bed earlier, quit smoking, or adopt a healthier lifestyle. But let’s be honest, every year those resolutions only last for a couple of weeks (days?).
Changing your lifestyle is a difficult task, but it’s a lot easier to stick with email marketing resolutions! Below you’ll find our selection.
1. Get your mailing list in shape 
Hopefully you worked hard to collect new subscribers throughout 2013. But are you also evaluating your subscription process? And what are you doing with those contacts once they join your list?
Start 2014 with a healthy mailing list and pay attention to the following elements:
Place inactive contacts on a separate list. That way you can send special promotions and messages to your most active readers.
Optimize your subscription process. Find out if the subscription form on your website is enticing enough. Are you already sending a welcome message to your contacts? Research shows that a welcome message can generate up to 70% higher open rates than regular messages. Make sure that the first message your contacts receive immediately sets the right mood.
Figure out what your contacts find interesting. Which type of articles got the most clicks from your contacts in the campaigns of last year? That way, you can change your strategy and content for next year, or segment your contacts based on interest.
2. Avoid stressful situations
A lot of marketers are stressing out when it’s time to send their newsletter. A good preparation is key. Avoid future stress moments by keeping a content list. This doesn’t have to be anything fancy or advanced. And you can take it as far as you like. Keep a note book with you, a word document or a list in your phone.
The next time your inspiration starts flowing, you can write it on your list. Did you see something interesting on TV? Got a question from a customer? Maybe that’s something interesting for a blog article! You can also plan some themes or content for every month. That way, you don’t have to start looking for a subject when it’s time to write your newsletter.
If you want to take it up a notch, you can also work with a calendar. By planning all your newsletter moments and content, you can keep a clear overview. On top of that, you can respond quickly and easily to holidays and special occasions for your company. Don’t forget to plan your testing moments!
3. Go for a personal connection with your contacts
Be grateful for every email address that joins your list. Your contacts are offering you a direct way to connect with them. Make sure your make it worth their while. By using personalization you can create a unique experience. Go further than just addressing them with their first name. You can combine purchase and clicking history, interests, characteristics, … If you’re selling whine for example, you can send your customers a recipe that goes well with the whine they purchased.
4. Optimize your message for mobile
The sale of smartphones and tablets is still increasing. When your contacts are waiting for their dentist appointment, or waiting in line at the supermarket, they usually grab their smartphone to kill time. This means that your contacts are much more involved with their inbox as they used to be. When they are switching between your website, social media, and your email message, they should be able to easily access the information they’re looking for.
So adapt your email messages. By using the responsive design of the Smart Builder you can easily create email messages that have a desktop and a mobile version.
5. Learn something new
When your have some free time, try looking for some new input for your email campaign. Examine the newsletters of your competitors. Search for inspiration on (email marketing) blogs. Take part in an event or a webinar. Look for new ideas for your email communication and for new ways to pamper your contacts.
Did you already make your resolutions? Are you planning on using one of the above? Or do you have another? Let us know in the comments!
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