Avoiding Spam Filters

There are several simple ways to avoid being labeled as spam. 

In the world of email marketing, spam filters can make all your hard work meaningless. Your engaging graphics, great deals, and lovingly created copy can die before it's born if you can't get through to your potential clients.

There are several simple ways to avoid being labeled as spam. First, familiarize yourself with white lists. Where a blacklist keeps your email from reaching the sender, a white list gives you a virtual thumbs up, ensuring your emails make it past spam filters. Most ISPs maintain white lists, so contact the major companies, explain your business practices, and see about being added to their white list.

One of the warning signs of spam is a flood of emails. A time sensitive offer or deadline may inspire you to send many emails as quickly as possible, but this can work against you. A flurry of mass emails can cause you to be blocked. Set your software to send mails more slowly.

If your business supports it, set up opt-in programs on your websites and documentation. That way, people are receiving only email they want to receive, and are less likely to mark your communications as spam. It also helps to personalize the subject line, but be cautious. No one likes to get communications addressed incorrectly. Be wary of using a program to compose your emails, lest you accidentally send garbled subject lines.

With these simple changes, your emails will reach their targets much more often, generating more revenue and repeat business for you and your company.