No matter what type of business you operate, you need an email list. Not just any list, preferably an opt-in list. If it's a double-opt-in list, it's even better. Why?Because your list keeps you in touch with your clients and prospects; it develops a relationship of trust; people buy from people they trust; and finally, it's a very cost effective way of marketing.
Take this example of a hairdressing business with a proprietor we'll call Sophie. Sophie obtains
email addresses of her clients in her database along with details of
types of services they generally require eg, perm, haircut, shampoo etc.
She and her team know
periods between services so, when clients are due for another hairdo, she sends them an email reminder suggesting they ring a day or two in advance to ensure a booking. Clients respond.
Occasionally, she has a low demand day. Her paid staff is going to stand around without a full day of work.
Sophie goes through her database and finds several clients who would normally require a new hair job around about that time. She sends them a short email offering several booking times and a small discount if they accept.
Bingo! Instead of four hours without bookings, she now has three hours taken up.