How to Not Get Blacklisted With Email Blasts

SPAM is defined as any unsolicited email sent for commercial purposes.

Tough laws are in place in the U.S. to stem the proliferation of unwanted commercial emails from businesses. The CAN-SPAM Act covers all electronic messages intended for marketing and sales purposes, and violation of the rules can not only get your business blacklisted but also result in fines of up to $16,000. In addition to avoiding those fees, following these guidelines can help keep your business' email blast from being blocked by a SPAM filter before it even reaches your potential customer.

Instructions

1. Use honest information in your email blast. For example, do not write something misleading in your subject line like "FW: Collecting Your Winnings!" when you are writing to announce your new product. Do not set up your email so it appears to come from someone outside of your business.

2. Write that your message is an ad somewhere in the email. There are no set rules about how to notify your customer, but keep in mind that your customer must be able to read somewhere in the email that this is an ad. Also, you must include your physical location somewhere in the email.

3. Include a way for customers to opt out of future emails. Clearly explain to your customers how to opt out of future messages. For example, allow the recipient to opt out by clicking a link or replying with a certain message in the text field. You must honor a request within 10 business days, and you cannot use the email for future commercial purposes.

4. Read your employees' commercial email blasts and any contracted companies' marketing efforts on your behalf. If your company is promoted in an illegal commercial email, even without your knowledge, your company may be held accountable.

Tips & Warnings

• It could be a good idea to consult an online marketing specialist for assistance as you learn how to properly use email blasts.

• DIfferent SPAM filter services work together, meaning if one customer's SPAM filter blocks you, it can notify other service providers to block you too.

• You will not be notified if you are blacklisted by SPAM filters, so follow the guidelines as soon as you you start email marketing to avoid wasting your efforts in the future.

• Disregarding these rules could be damaging to your business.

References

• Bureau of Consumer Protection: The CAN-SPAM Act: A Compliance Guide for Business
• ErnieGray.com: Email Blasts: Like A Machine Gun In A Post Office