We’ve talked about why email is an essential part of your online marketing strategy. Now to get started with email marketing, you’ll need to find the right service provider.
There are many good ones out there, either free or low-cost. They’ll provide you with automation tools, analytics, some great customizable templates and other features. Here are a few popular options:
1. MailChimp
This is my favorite and easy to use for people who are new to email marketing. With the free version, you can sign up to 2,000 subscribers and send up to 12,000 emails each month.
The interface is simple and intuitive, and the service also offer insights on individual subscribers; automated emails with in-depth reporting; recommendations for “best time to send”, and tips for targeting and growing your list.
2. AWeber
AWeber is one of the oldest email marketing platforms, and very reliable. One of its main offerings is its autoresponder software. The pricing starts from $19/month for up to 500 subscribers.
AWeber has some great, easy-to-use templates and a drag and drop editor. It also lets you manage your subscribers―segmenting them by open and click-through rates, sign-up details, locations, etc.
3. Constant Contact
This a pretty multifaceted tool, with mobile and social media features, surveys and events marketing, and built-in analytics.
Constant Contact also specializes in introducing small businesses to email marketing, and helping them grow their business. The cost is $20/month for up to 500 subscribers.
4. iContact
iContact is a simple yet comprehensive platform. It offers social media integration (you can publish your messages directly to Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, and track the performance of your posts).
Split testing and Google Analytics integration is also available. Pricing starts from $14/month for up to 500 subscribers.