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It is an ESSENTIAL TOOL
If you're starting an online business, there are a few basic but essential tools that you need to be successful. Besides a domain name, Website, and Website host, there are other tools that will increase your productivity tremendously. One of those essential tools is an email autoresponder.
What is an autoresponder? It's a piece of software—or service—that allows you to automatically respond to customer email inquiries, send emails on a predetermined schedule, and customize your emails for each person on your list.
One other critical benefit is that it helps keep you in line with current anti-spam laws—namely by making sure those who opt-out of your list are removed automatically.
If You're Serious About Your Online Reputation...
Most basic email clients have an autoresponder feature that you may have used before. But, if you're serious about your online reputation, you'll need to invest in a piece of software—or service—that can handle multiple email business functions.
When you start out, you may not see the benefits to having and using an autoresponder. But, as you build your mailing list, your autoresponder service will be key to helping you manage your list.
With an autoresponder, you can send out an automated, welcome email when someone joins your list. You can configure a month's worth of emails, having them sent out each Thursday. As each person joins your list, they're automatically started at the beginning of your message queue—no intervention required.
Increase Sales by 70%?
Another benefit to using an autoresponder is that you can customize emails. Research has shown that by simply using a person's first name in an email, sales can be increased by as much as 70%.
An autoresponder can also be used for customer support. When a customer sends an email to your support address, your automated reply will let them know you received the email and that you'll get back to them as soon as possible.
Another creative autoresponder support use is to have messages setup for different support functions. For example, if someone is having trouble downloading an item, they can send an email to downloads@yourname.com. A message from that address is then automatically sent to the person with a list of frequently asked questions about downloading items.
The most time consuming part will be the initial autoresponder configuration. But, once you have everything setup and tested, it's nearly hands free.
Finding the right autoresponder for your business needs will take time. I recommend going with an autoresponder service. These are companies which understand the always changing anti-spam laws. You'll have to pay a monthly fee but you'll avoid complex server configurations, potential hosting crashes, and legal trouble.
Having an autoresponder is a necessity, especially for the small, home-based entrepreneur. Don't overlook this amazing, time-saving software.
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