December 2024 | Issue #24
Hello Friend!
December is here, and I’m diving into the final stretch of the year with a hot cup of cocoa and a to-do list that never quits. I’m wrapping up 2024 with a focus on tools that make life simpler—like email automation for small businesses and authors. Whether you’re reminding customers about holiday deals or keeping readers updated on your next book, email automation saves time and keeps your audience engaged. Tools like MailerLite, Mailchimp, Flodesk, or ConvertKit are affordable, easy to use, and perfect for smaller operations.
Here’s a fun fact: Did you know the first public Christmas tree lighting in the U.S. was in New York City in 1912? They set it up in Madison Square Park. Now, festive lights have become a nationwide tradition!
Wishing you a joyful holiday season. Thank you for making 2024 such a wonderful year—I’m so grateful for you!
All the Best
Karen Zachary
Anchor Virtual Assistants
P.S: By the time you finish reading this email, you’ll be five minutes closer to the weekend. 🙂
Email Automation for Small Businesses and Authors
Email marketing isn’t just for big companies. With the right tools, small businesses and authors can stay connected with their audience without the constant grind of manually writing and sending emails. Whether you’re growing your customer base, launching a book, or running a holiday promotion, email automation can save you time, keep your audience engaged, and even boost sales.
Here’s how email automation can work for you:
1. Welcome Sequences
I recently learned that an email welcome sequence is more important than I previously thought. It’s one of the most important ways to connect with your audience. According to an industry professional I know, the average welcome sequence is 6.45 emails!😯 At a minimum, aim to have three emails in your welcome journey, and sent within the first 10 days of signup.
When someone signs up for your email list, an automated welcome sequence ensures they receive an immediate response. This can include:
- A thank-you message for signing up.
- An introduction to your brand, business, or book.
- A freebie, such as a downloadable guide, checklist, or sample chapter.
- A clear invitation to explore your website or follow you on social media.
Tip: Avoid the word “welcome.” It’s overused and generic.
2. Seasonal Promotions or Book Launches
Do you have a big event coming up? Email automation can make announcements and follow-ups a breeze. For example:
- Product Launches: Build excitement by scheduling a series of emails to count down to the big day, offer exclusive sneak peeks, and include purchase links.
- Book Launches: Create a timeline of automated emails for your readers, such as early-bird announcements, pre-order links, or behind-the-scenes stories.
- Seasonal Promotions: Set up time-sensitive discounts or offers that trigger at just the right moment.
3. Nurture Campaigns
Stay top of mind by nurturing your audience with regular, automated content. Examples include:
- Sharing success stories from customers or readers. The story must be relatable to the reader.
- Sending tips, resources, or inspiration related to your niche.
- Providing updates about your business or upcoming projects.
Automation ensures you stay in touch without overwhelming your audience (or yourself).
4. Post-Purchase Follow-Ups
- Don’t let the relationship end after a sale. A great post-purchase sequence can help turn buyers into loyal fans. For example:Thank them for their purchase with a heartfelt note.
- Offer bonus content, like tips on how to use a product or a sample of your next book.
- Request reviews or testimonials. I don’t think most buyers understand how important reviews are, so you might emphasize that these can have a tremendous impact on your company’s success.
This simple act of following up can create a deeper connection with your audience while also boosting your credibility.
Why Email Automation is a Must-Have
- Time-Saving: You set it up once, and it runs until you want to update it.
- Scalability: Automation allows you to grow your email list without adding extra work.
- Personalization through Segmentation: Even though it’s automated, you can still use subscriber data to tailor your emails to each person.
- Increased Engagement: Timely, relevant emails keep your audience interested and invested in your business or books.
Email automation isn’t just a tech tool—it’s a way to strengthen relationships, save time, and grow your impact.
Task You Could Hand Off Today:
Holiday Campaign Wrap-Ups
Need to send final reminders, clean up your email lists, or set up a New Year’s promo? Hand it over to me—I’ll make sure you finish the year strong.
Thing I’m Loving Right Now: Virtual Holiday Markets
Etsy’s Gifts Page is perfect for finding unique, handmade gifts without leaving your desk. Local artisans also host online pop-ups, offering everything from custom ornaments to holiday-themed snacks. Support small businesses while checking off your gift list!
About Me
I help solo entrepreneurs and small businesses with the technical and creative parts of their business like email marketing, book marketing, and blog ghostwriting. I have over 20 years of experience helping businesses manage high-stakes and tight-deadline projects.
I look forward to hearing from you. If you could spread the word, I’d be so happy!
Learn more about Anchor’s services here.