Email list growth is a constant endeavor for many small businesses, according to a survey conducted by ConstantContact among more than 700 customers using its email marketing product. 57% of respondents said they are always actively trying to grow their email lists. For most small businesses, email list growth is primarily driven by either a desire to foster repeat business (44%) or build relationships with customers (39%). About 1 in 10 say they primarily grow their lists in order to engage customers for referrals.
The study suggests that small businesses and non-profits are using a variety of methods to grow their contact lists. 64% actively ask customers directly for their contact information, although only 35% use an email sign-up sheet at the point of sale. Among those growing their lists through online tools, the vast majority (92%) collect addresses via sign-up forms on their websites, while half as many (46%) collect them on Facebook.
Other Findings:
- More than 2 in 3 respondents said they train employees to ask for customer contact information.
- 42% of respondents collect business cards in order to grow their lists.
- Close to 6 in 10 gather contact information at events by using sign-up sheets.
About the Data: The Constant Contact survey was administered in January of 2013 to 717 Constant Contact customers currently using the company’s email marketing product. The customers represented B2B, B2C, and nonprofit sectors.