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Using Instant Messaging instead of Email for List Building

by SamirSM
5 replies
I created a new website around 2 weeks ago, and got some 20 Email Opt-ins since then.

Though I understand why Email Lists are better in terms of privacy, ability to address all the members with a single message and all, I have a feeling that while starting out with list building, using Instant Messaging services like Google talk and Yahoo Messenger might help build a better relationship with the list, making it more responsive.

What do you Gurus have to say?

I also get it that once you reach a 100+ list, Instant Messaging is no longer a valid option, but for a beginner, isn't it better to take the more responsive members into a closer group and add them to your Instant Messaging List?

Please share your thoughts in detail.


Samir
#building #email #instant #list #messaging
  • Profile picture of the author Internet_Corporation
    Hi Sami, I just found your thread and I am surprised no one has responded to it.

    I am thinking along the same lines as you which is why we added points of contact around all main navigation for skype.

    We only did this a few weeks ago and its working well. Initially we were concerned that we'd get plagued by too many support requests via skype, but its not been a problem at all.

    Add to this there is a skype add on which allows you to hold meetings for up to 50 people so it makes quite a good package.

    We even then developed a tool so that our customers can also add a skype buttons to their own websites and to short urls which has also been received very well.

    And of course the fact you become more contactable increases sales and customer loyalty.
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    • Profile picture of the author Chris Hardee
      What about building a list of followers on Twitter? That may also help if done correctly.
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      • Profile picture of the author SamirSM
        Originally Posted by chardee42 View Post

        What about building a list of followers on Twitter? That may also help if done correctly.
        IMHO...

        If you have a list of loyal followers, it would be pretty easy to connect on Twitter.

        However, given the rather short attention span of Twitter users, it would be difficult to get new followers or interest new followers.

        No problem in trying things out I guess
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  • Profile picture of the author CyberSorcerer
    I have a use for everyone place I have a list of people. Even the contacts I have on my phone.

    So yes, I use my Twitter, LinkedIn, Myspace Friends, AIM, YIM, etc, etc. But also naturally, you have ALL your list separated into categories such as Family, Friends, IMer's, Affiliates, Security Industry (one of my categories), etc.

    This is for an obvious reason; because, when I send out an internet marketing message I don't want my security people getting it by mistake. That just doesn't look professional. This is why the importance of separating all your opt-ins into categories, campaigns, programs, etc. Must easier to market too and even better to track your stats for each group.
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  • Profile picture of the author suemax
    My personal view is that instant messages are very irritating, especially when the sender has not already built rapport with his list (i.e right from the get-go). So, I would stick to the tried and tested methods, unless, perhaps, your list is VERY mobile-centric or VERY instant message driven.
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