Building a list requires you to find a way that will entice prospective customers and customers to opt in to your email list. You must have the person's permission before you send any promotional emails to him or her; otherwise, you can be reported for spam, which is the last thing you want when you're trying to build a business and a reputation. Following are some simple steps you can take to build your list:

1. Design a squeeze page.

Essentially, a squeeze page is a page that is designed to help you capture email addresses. Your squeeze page can and probably will be the front page of your Web site. Internet marketing experts recommend having multiple pages to which your landing page leads. Make sure your squeeze page also contains worthwhile content of at least 200 to 300 words.

2. Use an autoresponder.

In the beginning, when your list is relatively small, you'll be able to send out an email to each new list member to confirm his opt-in to your email list. However, as your list grows, you're going to need an autoresponder to do it for you. One of the most popular autoresponders, to which you can purchase a subscription, is Aweber.

3. Make Your Opt-In Box Visible.

You must have a highly visible opt-in box on your Web site. Rather than tucking the opt-in box at the bottom of the page, make sure it's high on the page where every visitor to your Web site can easily see it and fill out the information, if they choose.

4. Entice people to sign up.

Offer potential subscribers something in exchange for them opting in to your list. For example, you may offer them a free report, ebook, or ecourse if they sign up for your list.

5. Use your email signature.

Your email signature line can be a powerful marketing tool if you take advantage of it. Include a link to your Web site or directly to the opt-in signup box, so people can easily sign up for your list.

6. Ask in various ways.

Sure, you want to have an opt-in box on your squeeze page, but that's just the beginning. Invite your visitors to sign up for your mailing list on your homepage and on other pages of your Web site, including your guestbook, if you have one.

7. Ensure privacy.

Promise your list members that you will never spam them or share their email and other personal information with others. And, make sure you stick to that promise.