iContact versus Aweber, 1shoppingcart, ConstantContact and MailChimp
I use iContact for managing my email list, sending out my newsletter, and creating sign-up boxes that can easily be added to my web page for my newsletter and teleclasses, etc.
I used to use Constant Contact. I liked them too, however, I switched to iContact because they offered Autoresponders, multiple list segments, and surveys without charging any extra.
I researched this a lot. Aweber.com and 1shoppingcart.com are two additional services that have good reputations. MailChimp.com is also popular with some people.
To build a business to it’s true potential, I think it’s essential to build a list of people who are interested in the type of information (and service) you offer. Signing up with one of the above services makes it easier to manage and grow your list.
I chose iContact after checking the pricing and functionality of all the options mentioned above. I don’t think they are the best, however, they have some of the lowest pricing, and they have an intuitive and simple user interface. I have been happy with them. 1shoppingcart has the best affiliate marketing capabilities and seems to be the most popular service among serious internet marketers. Constant Contact has the best templates and the easiest user interface. It’s good for beginners but so is iContact. Aweber and 1shoppingcart are a little more advanced. I don’t know much about MailChimp but I’ve been told that it is popular. There are many more options that I haven’t researched.
If you already have a substantial list you would like to import into one of these systems, an important factor to consider is whether or not they will require everyone to reconfirm their subscription. iContact and Constant Contact don’t make you do this but 1shoppingcart and Aweber do. You’ll lose a substantial number of subscribers if you force them to opt-in to remain on your list.
If you’re interested in iContact, you can use my affiliate link and iContact will give me a little something for signing up through me. I use the service myself and am satisfied with it, so I am happy to pass along the option.
I also use 1shoppingcart now as well. They are great for affiliate tracking, autoresponders, and more.
---Ryan Eliason is a professional life and business coach with a proven track record of business success. His small business clients have frequently doubled or tripled their incomes, increased their positive impact, and simultaneously improved their lifestyles. Subscribe to this blog. Download your FREE audio seminar and workbook on How To Have The Best Year of Your Business and Your Life.
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2 Responses Leave a comment
Aloha Ryan, this is great info, I may look into iContact per your recommendation.
I currently use 1ShoppingCart and so you know you can disengage the double opt-in feature. I don’t recommend using a double opt-in either.
All the best, Dewi
Hi Ryan, thank you for referring us to this info, and for doing the research.
Mail Chimp was recommended to me, and I have been looking into it. Mail Chimp seems to also require that you invite people to “opt in”. I have been looking at this as an opportunity to step up my professionalism and show people what I truly have to offer (i.e. my new website highlighting what I do plus a free gift for opting in) while asking them to show their interest in and willingness to receive what I provide for free as well as for sale. While I am concerned about losing people in this process, I feel like the people I keep will be much more likely convertible as customers and clients.
Can you share your perspective on this? Also, can you explain what autoresponders are used for and when they would be appropriate?
Thanks! Marina