"The money's in the list." You've probably read these words a thousand times. We all have. What is "The List" and why do you need one?

I'm sure you know that Mail Order companies have a list that they mail their catalog to. They do this so that they can present their products to as many people as possible, as often as possible. Some of these people will become customers. A customer who has purchased once is more likely to purchase again.

In the same way you need a list that you can email your product information to. Some of these people will never buy from you, but some of them will. Some will become repeat customers and this means regular recurring income. Far out!

You know how hard you work for the traffic that your websites receive. What's better, to have your visitors come to your site, do nothing and leave, or to have them subscribe to your mailing list? I think the answer is obvious.

It's very important that you have a subscribe form prominently displayed on your websites. Some people display a subscribe form on every page of their site. You should at least have one on your home page.

So, how do you get people to subscribe? You can offer free information in the form of an ebook, an audio download, or even a series of lessons pertaining to a certain topic.  You can offer free software or a free script. You can create videos and place them on YouTube and other video sites. Submit articles to Article Directories with a link in you signature file.

I recommend that you always use double opt-in for your email lists. This will help guard against Spam complaints and it's been my experience that your list will be more responsive.

Conventional wisdom says to establish a  personal relationship with your list. Tell them something about yourself.  Throw out a gift or two. Make them care about you. Be a "Buddy."

My thinking is a bit different. The above is fine if you're looking for a penpal. It's good if Online Marketing is your hobby. If you're serious about your business remember that you aren't in business to establish relationships, you're in business to make money. If this isn't your primary purpose you will fail.

Don't get me wrong. Relationships are important, but they should be kept at a business level. The most important thing to establish is that you are an honest business person and know what you are doing. Be professional at all times. Use proper grammar and spelling. Provide them with solid information.

So, build your list and you build your business and greatly improve your chances for success.