Having used numerous autoresponder services through the years, I am keenly aware of the importance that this essential tool plays in your business success. Autoresponders automate many communication tasks such as providing instant information to your potential customers, sending out welcome and thank you letters, newsletters, free reports, articles, and many other tasks. It’s your silent 24 hour employee that never complains. While your individual needs will dictate the type of autoresponder features that you require, there are some key things to look for in selecting an autoresponder service.
They say that exceptional customer support is a thing of the past, but you should demand it from the company that provides your email delivery services. Some of the things that superior companies provide in this area besides telephone numbers and email support are Live Chat during normal business hours, Live Video Seminars, extensive training guides and materials that go beyond the standard features of average companies. The company I use even stays in touch by snailmail to let me know about important updates, new features, etc. Exceptional companies pride themselves on their customer service and support. Always keep in mind that with an Internet based business, your autoresponder service is a reflection of your business.
You can have the slickest sales copy going but if your message doesn’t get delivered, you’re dead in the water before you even get started. When I was checking on autoresponder services, I was shocked to find out how much delivery rates for email can vary. The company that I currently use provides a 99.34% delivery rate, which is exceptional. Unfortunately, this rate is not what you’ll find with many services. In fact, you will probably be lucky to get a 50% delivery rate. Before signing on with a autoresponder service, you’ll want to find out what their email delivery rate is. Most autoresponder companies have features in place that provide numerous email statistics about delivery rates and other information. You’ll want to use a company that provides a multitude of statistics about your e-mailings.
Another important component of a exceptional autoresponder system is its flexibility. Most top notch autoresponder services allow you a great degree of flexibility in using their autoresponders to fit your needs. For instance, some of the things you should be able to do with your autoresponders are send your messages in either HTML or Text, use numerous name personalizations, add Forms to your website, create and send followup emails to your subscribers, provide Templates for your various needs, create Newsletters, allow unlimited autoresponders and other features that allow you to perform most, if not all of your communication functions.
Lastly, if you’re considering using one of the free or cheap autoresponder services my advice is.. DON’T! The old axiom that “you get what you pay for” is just as true when it comes to autoresponders. What you are likely to find that you are getting for your economizing is limited features, ads on all of your emails, virtually no customer support, and unreliable service. In my experience, spending $15-$20 a month is well worth the huge benefits you’ll derive from using a professional email delivery system.
The use of autoresponders can be a fantastic tool to automate and simplify many of your online tasks. It gives you the ability to stay in touch with your customers. It’s a 24 hour salesperson for you, providing on demand information for others. The wise use of autoresponders can greatly expand your business reach. Choose a service that enhances your business and profit.