I received the following email today asking about a HUGE List Building No No! When I read it, my first thought was, “People are still doing this? Or at least contemplating it? Am I back in the 90’s? How can this still be happening?”
What some people take for common knowledge is a learning experience for others. After I scolded myself of my quick (and negative) judgement, I am taking this as an opportunity to share with you all.
What was the email? Here it is!
Hi Paul – I love your Blog and I learn more about what I don’t know every time I visit it. What a great free service you provide. I have a small list that I call non-existent. I came across an ad where I can get 1 million email address for under thirty dollars. For $30 I am thinking it is worth the effort. What does the Master say? Thanks.
In a word, No!
I am sure that you have definitely come across advertisements that read: “1,000,000 email addresses for $29.99.” Back in the day, these bulk mail companies would send you a CD in the mail that would allow you to sort and filter and do all sorts of things.
I will start off by saying that I would LOVE to have 1 million responsive email addresses! In a heartbeat. Hands down! Sign me up!
I mean, having 1,000,000 subscribers is the best thing that could ever happen to any Internet Marketer and often sounds too good to be true. But very often, it is just that… it sound too good to be true.
What many beginning marketers do not really know is that these bulk companies harvest the email addresses using robots and other programs on the Internet. That is how the 1,000,000 email addresses come about, whatever the amount is.
Now, the really awful part is that if you purchase the so-called 1,000,000 names even at a low price, not only is it a waste of money, you are risking being accused of spamming. It is no longer a surprise how you often receive spam mails on Viagra, Russian Dating, and all the spam you do not need in your inbox.
That is so possible, because of the 1,000,000 names, no one knows you or even ask to be subscribed to your mailing list.
On top of that, not all 1,000,000 email addresses are really in use because a portion of them can either be own by the same owners (one owner can own more than 1 email accounts) or are obsolete.
And another thing… even if these emails address were all good, not all of them are interested in what you have to provide to them. Why would someone want an email from you if they have no interest in your niche? You will just tick them off!
Bottom line: When you read such ads again, tell yourself that it is a waste of money.
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