Ways to prevent false abuse reports

Getting permission is extremely important. Without permission, you could be reported for abuse whether or not you’re a legitimate marketer. The following tips can help you prevent spam complaints as you start sending email to subscribers:

  • Use the double opt-in method. This is standard with HBJamaica. If you use double opt-in, you have proof that each and every recipient gave you permission to send them emails. Period.

  • Even if your recipients are already your customers, don’t send promotions without getting permission first. Set up a separate marketing list for customers to join. Tell them you’re about to start up a great email newsletter or promotions program, and give them reasons to sign up.

  • Don’t use purchased lists. Even if you acquired them legally, they’re against our terms of use, so you’ll get in trouble for it. They're a waste of money, and just plain wrong.

  • Don’t hide the unsubscribe/opt-out link in your campaigns. It should be prominent. People who no longer wish to receive your emails are either going to unsubscribe or mark you as spam. Which would you prefer? Some folks even place the unsubscribe link at the top of their emails, so it’s easier to find.

  • Make sure your email looks reputable. If you’re not a designer, hire one. Your email needs to look like it came from your company, not some scammer who’s phishing for information. If your email looks unprofessional, who’s going to trust your unsubscribe link?

  • Set expectations when people opt in to your list. If people sign up for monthly newsletters but you also send them weekly promotions, they’re probably going to report you for spamming. Tell them what you’ll be sending and how often. Set up different lists (one for newsletters, one for special offers and promotions). Understand that there’s a difference between soft-sell newsletters and hard-sell promotions. Don’t mix them up.

  • Don’t wait too long before contacting your subscribers. We’ve seen lots of small businesses collect emails at their storefront, but then wait more than 3-6 months before contacting their customers by email. Too often, it’s with a coupon offer during the holidays (when recipients are already getting overwhelmed with offers from other online merchants). Set up a process where new subscribers receive emails from you right away, like a “Top Ten” list that you send weekly, using HBJamaica's Automation features.

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