To market a product - build a list

[work2bfree]

The first step that one should take is to build a list - This is the most important thing you will do to market your product on the internet. Having a list means you have established a relationship with your prospects or customers. The simplest way to build a list is to add a newsletter or Ezine to your site and include a subscription form encouraging visitors to subscribe.

Thanks for letting me share.... ;)

[MaryAnn]

OK, I don't want to sound like a complete dolt but I'll risk it - what *list* am I building, how do I build it, and what do I do with it once I get it?

[Audrey]

Maryann,

Please don't think you're an idiot. I love that you ask questions...I do too.

Here's my take on what it means to "have a list"

The original poster spoke of a newsletter. This is a group of folks who want to read what you have to say. It also means they are a potential list of clients since you are writing about something that relates to what you are selling.

I also consider message boards to be a form of a list. I only post daily on about 6 boards. I am known on those boards. It is my HOPE that if the other posters or someone they know want what I sell, I'll get the order. This is another form of a list.

With a newsletter, I believe the goal is to keep your name in front of those who want to read what you write by providing them with new and interesting content on a regular basis.

This of course is my perception of what the orginal poster might have meant.

[MaryAnn]

Thanks Audrey - I hope the OP comes back to clarify. Her suggestion sounds interesting.

[bizzymom3]

Building a newsletter/Ezine list is a great way to keep subscribers up to speed on what you are up to with your business. We have over 3,000 subscribers and we send out monthly ezine and opt to send out notices for sales, new products and more.

We use www.yourmailinglistprovider.com for our mailings - they are very reasonable and easy to use.

[work2bfree]

BizzyMom3 and Audrey, you are both correct. I am sorry I did not clarify myself, I erroneously assumed that most people knew what I was talking about when I mentioned creating a list. I will try to be a little more specific when I create my post. Again, my apologies. :)