One of the most effective things I do with my email list is create responsiveness and relationship by sending out feedback letters. Basically what I do is write an email, use: “I need your help…” as my subject line, and then in the letter I tell the reader that I am preparing to write a book, or I am choosing article topics, or whatever it is that I am working on, and that I need their help. Then I ask them a few questions. After that, I close by telling them to hit ‘reply’ to the email to send me their questions or answers to mine.
This creates an incredible level of personalization. When they write you back, try to respond to them personally. Send them a thank-you gift. Many times I have noticed that after I have responded like that, the subscriber buys something from me. Coincidence? Possibly, but I doubt it. I think that people like the personal touch.
I will also do mass replies to this. Many of the replies are very similar in nature. In just about every niche, there are few things that people consistently have questions about. By replying in a group email, and indicating that I have received a pretty incredible response to my questions, and that I am answering the most common questions in a ‘mailbag’ style, I think that people get the feeling that I have a very responsive list, a community, almost, and then they feel more comfortable on my list and with me. And if they feel more comfortable, they buy more.
So here is a sample feedback email:
Subject line: (Name of subscriber) – I need your help
Body of email:
Dear (subscriber):
I am currently working on a new book in (your niche market) and want to make sure I address all you questions.
1) What do you most want to learn more about (your niche)?
2) What is the hardest thing you have found about (your niche)?
3) What is your next goal in (your niche)?
Thanks in advance for helping me out. Just hit ‘reply’ to this email and then answer your questions there.
To your success,
Sean
