Have you ever subscribed to someone’s ezine, or signed up to get a free ebook, and when you click “submit” you see a generic thank you page — that looks nothing like the site you just came from? I know some email list management service providers don’t allow you to customize that page (if you are in the situation, you need a new provider!), but sometimes the list owner just never took the time to customize the page.

Big mistake! The moment your a new subscribe arrives at the thank you page, the opportunity to start building the relationship is at it’s peak. Here are 5 keys to making the best use of this prime real estate.

1. Make this page a seamless extension of your website. Start with your website template, using the same banner and color scheme. Keep the same tone in your writing, too; if your website is formal and business-like, carry that over to your thank you page. If your website is upbeat and fun, keep the light-hearted tone.
2. Remind them what they’ve just signed up for. Even use the exact same wording. Adding an image from the signup page is also useful — it might be your picture or the cover of your ebook.
3. Remind them they have to click the confirmation link when they receive it in their inbox – otherwise they won’t receive the freebie they want (you are offering a freebie as incentive, right?)
4. Request that they whitelist your website. Otherwise, they may not even receive the confirmation email! You can copy the Solo-E.com whitelisting instructions if you like.
5. Make them an offer. At the moment they reach this page, they’ve already decided they like you and think you are worth knowing more about. What better time to offer them a one-time only special deal! Or, arrange a cooperative-marketing agreement and promote your partner’s ezine or product (and they do the same for you.

An effective thank you page can improve your confirmation rates, and even reduce your unsubscribe rate. But most importantly, it’s an opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential customer — so use it wisely!

Last 5 posts by Terri Zwierzynski

• 31 Time Management Tips - December 18th, 2008
• Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus - December 14th, 2008
• And now just for fun... - November 27th, 2008
• The Grateful Life of a Solo Entrepreneur - November 17th, 2008
• Can a Lifestyle be a Niche? - November 4th, 2008

This entry was posted on Sunday, September 7th, 2008 at 1:19 pm and is filed under Internet Marketing, Email Marketing. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.