Confused about opt in lists.
I've read that a single optin list will get twice as many signups as a double optin. On the other hand, a single optin gives me no proof that the person actually asked to join my list. That leaves me vulnerable to spam claims.
What do you use? Double optin or single opt-in? I only use single optin when I know the people on the list well and they have given me permission to use their email. Example would be a club or a sports team. What do you think?
Recent Comments
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Hi, Bill.
You are correct. Single opt-in will make you vulnerable to spam claims. Double opt-n works well. I have been playing around with mail chimp integrated with a subscription page plugin.
The software(s) does its thing but I go one step further before actually using the autoresponder function of mailchimp.
I send them a personal e-mail thanking them for their subscription along with with a short outline of what they can expect from me and what in return I might expect of them.
Although the process is more time consuming, the quality of the overall relationship is improved for what I have planned to do moving forward.
When the volume of subscription exceeds what I can handle personally, then I will have to think of other measure.
Very good question.
All the best,
Paul.
Thank you for sharing. Your first autoresponder letter can replace you personal response when the volume of responces gets to big to handle personally. May that soon be the case.
I think it's a personal choice. I have used both but you definitely attract more quality subscribers with double opt in. I prefer this to having hordes of subscribers who end up unsubscribing or not opening my emails.
~Mark
Thanks. Personal experience is the best teacher. I’ll definitely go with double optin for list building.
Hi Bill,
I still think double optin is better in your case, because without having them to confirm their email address, your newsletter can go straight to their spam folder right from the beginning and can never be read.
In terms of the proof (if you opt for single optin), your email marketing system will tell you the optin date at least... I put a disclaimer at the bottom of my newsletter such as;
"You're receiving this email because you signed up with me on {!signdate}" ---- (that's a syntax provided by AWeber)
I use both single and double optins, depending on the type of list. I receive a lot of "easy signups" with single optin but a lot of them can be fake email addresses.
Ray
Thanks Rey, for your help. You make a lot of good points. I guess as you say it depends on the situation
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If you ever plan to use affiliate links in your emails, you must use a double opt-in system. This is required to be CAN-SPAM compliant in the US, and Canada's laws are even stricter. Yes, your list will be smaller. But it will be a much higher quality and you will be able to use it without as much legal liability.
Thanks, Good information