Sounds great, right? This is going to knock your socks off when you see how easy this is.
First, I want you to understand that I am of the mind that it is not the size of the list that matters, but the relationship you have with your list. Having a big list of subscribers that don't open your emails, don't read them and don't do anything that leads to money in your bank account is not my goal. Sure, you can brag you have a big subscriber list, but I'd rather make more money for my list marketing efforts... wouldn't you?
So, the goal is to have a list of RESPONSIVE subscribers. This means people who are waiting for your email with anticipation, drop everything they are doing to immediately read them and then acts without hesitation to do something that leads to money in your bank account. OK, that may be a little bit of a stretch, but you get the idea. And responsive subscribers are created from building a strong relationship with your list.
You absolutely cannot build a RELATIONSHIP without a two way conversation!
Most people subscribed to your list because they decided it would be advantageous for them to learn more from you. They made the crucial step of someone looking for information to someone asking YOU for information. In the beginning, that is exactly what you should do to gain their trust and keep them subscribed on your list... provide the valuable information they seek.
But at some point, the relationship needs to grow. It needs to be more give and take. It needs to change from a speech, lecture or sermon to a CONVERSATION. So, here it is, the big tactic...
Ask your list members to send you their biggest question, and you'll answer it in your next email. Simple right?
Like I said earlier, your subscribers want to learn from you. The joined your list because they thought you have the solution to their problem. Let them ask you their BIGGEST question about the topic, product or solution your list is about. Get them involved in the conversation.
This is what you can expect...
Your subscribers start to feel involved. If they asked a question, they will definitely open your next email. Even if they didn't ask a question, they'll open your next email to see what was asked.
So, your open rate on the next email will be astronomical!
Now, how can you profit from building a relationship with your list and involving them in the conversation?
You are probably recommending affiliate programs or your own product to your list. So, it is reasonable to expect some of the questions to be about those products. When you answer these question you can directly and indirectly help your subscribers determine if the product or service is the correct solution for them, and eliminate any obstacles to buying. It is a nice way to soft-sell your recommendations. You can expect to see added sales as a result of your "answer" email.
PLUS: you might be surprised to learn that your list is interested in some other type of product or service altogether. Maybe the product or service you are recommending ISN'T the best solution for what your list wants, and is ready to pay money for. This is a HUGE opportunity for you. You can either look for the right product or service and then market it to your list, or create the product or service yourselves. And you already have a market ready to buy!
I think you'll agree, building a relationship with your list and inviting them into the conversation by asking them a question is a simple way to add profits to your list marketing. I bet you're ready to field some questions, right?