How to buy a targeted mailing list

Buying a targeted mailing list can be a great way to reach your ideal customers and increase your marketing efforts' effectiveness. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to buy a targeted mailing list:

1. Define your target audience: Before buying a mailing list, identify your ideal customer demographics, such as age, gender, location, industry, job title, and interests. This will help you find a list that's relevant to your business.
2. Determine your budget: Decide how much you're willing to spend on a mailing list. Prices vary depending on the list's size, quality, and level of targeting.
3. Choose a list broker or provider: Research and select a reputable list broker or provider that specializes in your industry or niche. Some popular options include:
   • List brokers: Hoovers, Dun & Bradstreet, and InfoUSA
   • Email list providers: Constant Contact, Mailchimp, and VerticalResponse
   • Industry-specific list providers: For example, if you're in the healthcare industry, you might use a provider like Healthcare List Source
4. Select the right list type: Decide whether you want a:
   • Compiled list: A list of contacts compiled from public sources, such as directories and online databases.
   • Self-reported list: A list of contacts who have opted-in to receive information from your industry or niche.
   • Hybrid list: A combination of compiled and self-reported lists.
5. Specify your targeting criteria: Provide the list broker or provider with your targeting criteria, such as:
   • Job title or industry
   • Company size or revenue
   • Location or geographic region
   • Interests or behaviors
6. Request a sample list: Ask the list broker or provider to provide a sample list to ensure the data is accurate and relevant to your business.
7. Negotiate the price and terms: Once you've selected a list, negotiate the price and terms of the list rental or purchase. Be sure to ask about any additional fees or charges.
8. Review and agree to the list usage agreement: Carefully review the list usage agreement to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of using the list.
9. Use the list responsibly: Use the mailing list responsibly and in accordance with anti-spam laws, such as the CAN-SPAM Act.

Some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Verify the list's accuracy: Before using the list, verify the accuracy of the contact information to ensure you're not wasting your time and resources.
• Use a list rental agreement: If you're renting a list, make sure to use a list rental agreement that outlines the terms of the rental, including the duration, usage, and confidentiality.
• Comply with anti-spam laws: Always comply with anti-spam laws, such as the CAN-SPAM Act, when sending emails to a purchased or rented list.

By following these steps, you can buy a targeted mailing list that helps you reach your ideal customers and increase your marketing efforts' effectiveness.