There are many things computer users fear. Viruses, unexpected shutdowns, loss of saved files – this list goes on. There is one thing that all computer users hate: spam. Formerly known as cheap meat inside of a can (from my home state, I’m not-so-proud to admit), spam is now a larger than life term that can clog email inboxes and slow down reading and sending of messages.

You probably receive spam messages everyday dedicated to everything from helping you earn one million dollars to quick medicinal fixes for problems you do not have.

While spam emails are an unavoidable aspect of using the Internet, you must ensure that your small business does not end up listed as a spammer. Listing as a source of spam and unwanted email can doom your messages from reaching their intended sources. With the ultimate power that an accurate and good email subscription list possesses, your business needs to maintain an online impression as a sender of worthwhile and trusted information.

Every small business owner must pay attention to prevention of accusations of spam. Even though your business may never mean to send an unsolicited email, you still run the risk of identification as a spammer. Email programs and Internet software have evolved into more advanced forms, and one of their primary goals is to eliminate spam from cyberspace. However, these programs use a variety of filters that are not entirely accurate. They may mark messages from friends and trusted sources as immediate junk, or even worse, they may never even deliver the notes.

As a small business owner, you recognize the importance of reaching your customers with special offers and new information via email. Because of this, you should make sure that your email list remains updated. Include an “unsubscribe” option in each newsletter or email you send to your recipients in case readers no longer want to be a part of your list. While a long list of readers is a good tool, there is nothing worse than an angry customer who is tired of receiving updates. As soon as anyone gives you the news that he or she wants removed from the list, make sure this is done. Never add an email address without a request from the recipient. Leave a sign-up form on your website and use addresses that are personally offered. Keep a list of who enrolls in case you are ever confronted with spam listings from individual subscribers. This serves as a good defense of your innocence.

Another note you should pay attention to when crafting consumer emails is subject lines. There are a number of programs that screen emails, and the most important part of the message is the subject. Ask your Internet service provider for a comprehensive list of terms or symbols that are sorted out as cases of spam to avoid using them in any of your customer messages.

Accusations of spam can have serious consequences for your small business, and it is crucial to keep your web address free from suspicion of bad activity. Remain aware of what leads to spam listings, and keep your small business free from the hassle of removing itself from a list of Internet evils.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Entrepreneur and outdoor photography adventurer Caroline Melberg is President and CEO of Small Business Mavericks, a division of Melberg Marketing. She has over 20 years of experience creating marketing communications materials and writing copy for some of the largest and most successful companies in the world. Her small business columns are syndicated online, and she publishes the popular e-Zine “Maverick Internet Marketing Secrets.” Learn insider Maverick Marketing secrets you can use immediately to find new customers and increase your sales. Get your FREE subscription at www.SmallBusinessMavericks.com today!

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