Ask permission to add people to your newsletter. Don’t just assume when someone gives you their business card that it’s okay to add them to your mailing list. Newsletters are a great way to get your message out there, to get noticed, and to get more information in front of your potential clients and referral partners. It’s a great way to connect on a regular basis with your audience, a great way to be memorable.
When you don’t ask permission some people may take offense and unsubscribe and claim that you’ve spammed them. Too many spams can get you locked out of your account. People really appreciate it when you ask and respect their response. Don’t always assume just because you picked up their business card from a table or that they’ve handed you their card that you’ve got their permission.
If you don’t have an opportunity to ask them, consider sending an email like this, “Hi! It was so nice to meet you. I’d like to add you to my newsletter. Please let me know if that’s okay.” Or you could say, “Hi! I am adding you to my newsletter, I didn’t get an opportunity to ask you when we met the other day. I share lots of helpful information in my newsletter that you might find helpful. If that’s okay, please enjoy. If not, please simply unsubscribe.”
Asking is really important. Besides, asking is respectful and people appreciate that. And believe it or not, since I started asking I happily have less unsubscribers.