If you’re running an online business, building an email marketing list is your number one priority. This is a list of people who are hot prospects. They have given you their email address because they want to hear more from you.

But your prospects won’t give you their email address for nothing. You have give them something of value in exchange for their email address. And if what you’re offering is seen as bland or boring, nobody will want it.

So what can you offer that sets you apart from online businesses in the same niche?

How To Create An Email List

The first thing you’ll need is reliable list building software. This is generally known as an autoresponder and will manage the emails that you collect and will automatically send out your offer when somebody requests it.

Next, check out what your audience want by looking at online forums. This is where people typically go when they need guidance from others who have the same problem. You can go to Google and type in the niche and the word forum and visit a multitude of forums to see what people need. Also check out the comment sections on related blogs and Facebook groups.

Deliver Value They Would Pay For

Now you’ll have an idea on what problem your audience wants help with. When you sit down to start planning your opt in offer, think of it as a paid offer. You want to give away something where they can’t believe you just gave that away. This will do more than just make your new subscriber happy – it will have them sharing it with others.

Always Provide Value

Don’t skimp on the information you give. They want real value, and if you verify yourself as ‘go to person’ in your niche, chances are they’ll turn into loyal customers from that point on.

Be Better Than Your Competitors

You want always stay one step ahead of your competition. The best way to keep an eye on the competition is to opt in to their list. Go through their system and be a subscriber so that you can experience the good and bad points about this other online marketer. Make notes of everything you like and dislike and keep those handy whenever it’s time to create your own offer. Make your opt in offer longer, better value, and more informative than your competitors.