Glossary
marketing

Email Marketing

Definition

Using email to communicate with your audience, promote your services, and build customer relationships. One of the highest-ROI marketing channels.

What is Email Marketing?

Email marketing is using email to communicate with prospects and customers – sharing updates, promoting offers, nurturing relationships, and driving sales.

Types of Email Marketing

Newsletters

Regular updates sharing valuable content, news, and insights.

Promotional Emails

Special offers, sales announcements, new products/services.

Welcome Sequences

Automated series for new subscribers introducing your business.

Transactional Emails

Order confirmations, shipping updates, receipts.

Re-engagement Campaigns

Win back inactive subscribers or customers.

Why Email Marketing Works

Owned Channel

Unlike social media, you own your email list. No algorithm changes can take it away.

High ROI

Often cited as the highest-ROI marketing channel – £40+ return per £1 spent.

Direct Access

Land directly in someone's inbox, not competing in a feed.

Personalisation

Segment and personalise messages for different audiences.

Automation

Set up once, let sequences run automatically.

Building Your Email List

Lead Magnets

Free guides, checklists, or tools in exchange for email addresses.

Website Opt-ins

Newsletter signup forms on your website.

Existing Customers

Ask permission to email customers (with GDPR compliance).

Events

Collect emails at networking events or webinars.

Email Marketing Best Practices

Get Permission

GDPR requires consent. Don't buy lists.

Provide Value

Don't just sell – share genuinely useful content.

Be Consistent

Regular sending builds habit and trust.

Optimise Subject Lines

This determines whether emails get opened.

Mobile-Friendly

Most emails are read on mobile devices.

Track Results

Open rates, click rates, conversions. Learn what works.

Getting Started

Tools like Mailchimp, ConvertKit, or MailerLite offer free tiers for small lists. Start simple – even a monthly newsletter builds valuable relationships over time.

Want to Learn More?

Check out our in-depth guides on web design, SEO, and digital marketing.