There’s a lot of talk about having a big list. “It’s a numbers game”, “the money is in the list”.
The truth is that it’s not just about having a big list. You want a targeted and responsive list.
What does that mean exactly?
A targeted list means that the people on your list are a good match for what you offer. So how do you build a targeted list?
First of all, your giveaway should address the top burning desire or challenge for your target market. In other words, what you offer as an incentive for people to opt-in to your list, is right in line with the problem you solve for your target market and the services you offer.
Secondly, you need to hang out where your target market hangs out. I could take the same giveaway and hang out where affiliate marketers hang out. The topic – finding your ideal niche – is of great interest to affiliate marketers. But affiliate marketers aren’t my ideal clients. I want to work with coaches, consultants and other service based professionals who want to package their expertise.
So hang out where your target market hangs out if you want to build a targeted list. You can do this by being active in forums, social media sites, associations and blogs in your niche. You can also drive your target market to you through keywords, and targeted advertising.
Moving on the second key to a profitable list, you want your list to be responsive.
I recently did a webinar for which over 800 people registered. Now that’s a responsive list. It means that the people on my list are interested in what I have to say. And I thank you for that:)
How do you create a responsive list?
It starts by creating great value, and doing so consistently. Create valuable blog posts and let the people on your list know about them. Offer a free webinar or teleseminar in which you deliver great content.
Also foster a sense of community. Personally respond to any emails you get and always leave feedback for every comment you get on your blog. Interact with people through social media, especially the social media sites where your target market hangs out.
Get to know the people on your list and let them get to know you. Do regular surveys to stay on top of what the people in your community most want and struggle with.
Let them get to know you too. Share your personal story, let them know about your own challenges and how you overcame them. Just be real and don’t try to put on any fake personas or pretend you’re something you’re not.
There’s great satisfaction in building a community of people who value you and who you value in return. It makes building a business online so much more personal, intimate and rewarding.
I appreciate you as a valued member of my community! Please leave your comments and questions below. I appreciate them more than you can imagine!
Great advice, one of the bullets on my Big Board is to figure out what my target markets are. Do you have any advice for novices in marketing?
I have the same problem. I’ve just started a new business as a Virtual Assistant and am having trouble determining my target audience. However, I am having writers come to me because I am also a writer and already networked with them. So, this may end up being the target audience I’m seeking.
Hi Laurie – congratulations on your new business. Here is a training video I did a while back that I think you’ll find helpful. http://www.attractyourniche.com/uncategorized/niche-strategy-puzzle
And of course, you can get my free Niche Success Kit for further help. Just let me know if you have any questions!
Hi Cairn, Thanks for stopping by and for your comment and question. You’ll find some great step-by-step training in my free Niche Success Kit that will lay a good foundation for you. It’s sooo important to figure out the three pieces of the Niche Puzzle before you start marketing, or you will end up frustrated and working way too hard. It’s not just about knowing who you serve, but what solution you provide and why people should work with you!
warm wishes,
Cindy
Useful advice. I agree with the sentiment of having a targeted and responsive list. I would much rather have a band of followers who were really interested in how I could help them, rather than collecting just anyone for the sake of having a big list
Well said Dot. Quality over quantity!
From followers to Fans to rabid-loyal-fans. It takes work and a realization that you have to love you people. Nice job. Oh Hale Yes!
Thanks Hale – and thanks for the laugh too. I really love the idea of building a community. It can be lonely building a business, and it’s so much easier with the right support and community.
Oh this is so what I need. I have a hard time with list building, my business is generated through Social Media/word of mouth right now.
Thanks for the great advice.
You’re so welcome Maryann. I’m going to have more blog posts about list building in the coming days and weeks so keep an eye out!
warm wishes,
Cindy