Getting Started with Email Marketing for Small Businesses

Getting started with email marketing involves more than signing up for a platform. Before you send your first campaign, a few things need to be in place. Answer a few questions and learn if you’re ready.

Do you have a privacy policy?
Do you have a marketing or content strategy?
Do you have a budget set aside for marketing support?
Are you selling products or services online, or do you have something free to download?
Are you or do you plan to host a webinar or in-person event?
Do you have a contact form or newsletter sign-up form on your website?

FAQs

Do I need a big list to start email marketing?

No. This is a common misconception. You can start building your email marketing program as soon as you launch your website. A simple Welcome message can start building trust with your customers.

How do I get more contacts?

Here are a few ways to get more contacts:

  • Add a newsletter sign-up form to your website or social media channels
  • Offer a downloadable product behind a form
  • Host a webinar or event online

Whatever method you choose, always collect explicit permission before sending marketing emails. This is a requirement under GDPR.

How much does email marketing cost?

Email marketing system costs can vary widely based on things like the number of contacts you have, how many emails you send per month, and the number of automations you need to run. Some systems may offer a free tier for a limited number of contacts, but you may still need to purchase additional tools to ensure your systems are all talking to each other. If you hire someone to help you set up your email marketing system, you will need to factor those costs into your budget.