So, as I see it a lot of people out there that have gone from standard business to somewhat “desperate” one thing that I am seeing a lot of lately is an increase in people bending the rules on email marketing.

Here’s what I’m talking about. Let’s say I meet you at a networking mixer or conference or even at the local coffee shop and we start talking business.

I give you my business card and I get yours. Pretty normal so far.

But, then I start getting your newsletter. I start getting emails from you pitching your latest cool product.

I get emails about your next workshop.

Now here’s the question… Did I ever ask for those things?

Nope! We talked and had a great conversation but never once did I ask for you to start sending me a ton of emails.

Just because we have met somewhere and I gave you a business card doesn’t mean that you can add me to your list.

See, that’s where a lot of people get it wrong. For a couple of reasons. First off, it’s technically against the rules. Since I never asked to be on the list and have not bought from you, then you aren’t allowed to add me to your promotion email list.

Secondly, when someone does that to me, I get irritated. If I asked for it, that’s fine but never assume that I want your emails.

Now, if I had bought something from you, then yes, you can promote to me. If I signed up for your list, you can promote to me. But, not if we just met and I gave you a business card.

So how do we build our mailing list and not break rules of irritate people in the process?

Simple, you can send me a single email with a link to your sign-up form. Make it personal. Tell me how great it was to meet and then ASK PERMISSION to send me more stuff.

If I’m interested, then I’ll say yes. If I’m not, I’ll politely say no.

I know it’s tempting to add those new contacts to your blast email list but think about how it can effect you in the long run. It can damage your reputation and you risk getting tagged as a spammer.

It’s not worth it. You’ll build much stronger relationships and better customers if you stick to the rules.

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