How to Market Smart

Things You'll Need:
* Prospect List
* Client List
* Opt-outs or Unsubscribes
* Third Party Mailing List Management Company (optional)

Have you ever received multiple "new customer" credit card offers for a card you already carry? How about "new customer" offers for you current internet or cable company? Amazingly enough, companies are forgetting to update their prospect lists with their client list. Not only is this a waste of time and money for that company, but it makes the customer feel less then special knowing they are just a name on a list. Maybe you are that company, sending out offers to existing clients without even realizing it. Follow these simple steps and you can start marketing smart and reducing cost.

Step 1: "Scrub" your prospect lists. This means removing current customers, duplicate mailings, and deleting unsubscribes and opt-outs. Yes, it may be time consuming but in the end it saves you money and resources.

Step 2: Review your target criteria and scrub your lists again. Are you marketing to 20 somethings but have prospects over 40 or visa verse? Remove those prospects who don't meet your current criteria or marketing strategy.

Step 3: Value your time and hire a 3rd party mailing list management company. Many direct mail service companies offer mailing list management services. Do your research and look for companies who are willing to update your lists at least every 90 days as well as pass it through the National Change of Address database. A good company will do your additions and deletions for you as well as use USPS approved software

Warnings: When hiring a 3rd party company be sure to research their privacy standards. If you have sensitive customer data, you want to ensure it's protection.

Resources: Smart Marketing: Prospect your prospects, not your customers

Action Mail Marketing and Direct Mail Service