Editors Comments: In recent testing of iContact's platform and general services I have decided to choose iContact as my Number 1 recommended Email Marketing Solution provider. iContact's features, reliability, support and pricing all come up above other providers. You can visit their site at http://www.icontact.com
It’s rare to find a site where what you see is what you get – in a good way. In my review of IContact it does what it says it’s going to do – and then some. First, it does simplify email marketing. The vast amount of information that is available is in an easy to understand format.
And you are carefully guided along every step of the way – from creating your email campaign to tracking the results.
What I didn’t expect from this site was a more personal touch. I found this when there was an actual list of names of the people who man their support line. Not only will you get an actual person, you might even recognize their name. And I signed up for their free 15-day trial. When I submitted my information and was forwarded to the confirmation page, it greeted me with “Welcome to the family.” When was the last time you had a greeting like that on the internet?
Features
The group of people behind iContact promise to take you through every step of email marketing –even explaining exactly what it is. Here are some of the main features you will find here:
·The 31 page Whitepaper on Email Marketing is a must read for anyone starting out. It explains everything in clear and easy to understand copy.
·From the start they help you create your list, enter it, and add to it as it increases.
·Next you can create your email campaign using any of their 300 templates.
·All additional aspects that go with sending your email campaign are included: scheduling when you want your messages sent; ways to avoid being mistaken for spam; subscription management; and how to handle bounced back emails
Campaign Reporting Features
In order to see how your email campaign is working, iContact offers the following services:
·Track my last message: lets you know how many people actually opened your email, how many clicked on the links, email addresses of those who unsubscribed and /or bounced back.
·Track My Sent Messages: Review old message, compare them or reuse for future campaigns.
·Track My Autoresponders: detailed list of all the autoresponders you have created.
·Track My Survey Results: keeps track of your surveys and the results from them
·Tracking Dashboard: an overall performance of your emails, newsletters and blogs.
If you still have a problem ,Not to worry, there is a staff of real people (they actually list everyone’s name) that are there to help.
·There is a ton of information on iContact.com to start with when you are stumped. Introduction videos, video tutorials, articles and resources, live and taped webinars
·If you can’t find a solution here, you can email your question to the support team
·Want to speak to a real live person? Click on Live Chat with Our Support Team or you can call directly Monday through Friday from 8AM – 8PM ET.
Summary
iContact does live up to its name. It does make it easy to get your email campaign started. And they give you a no-risk, no-credit card required free 15-day trial to see it for yourself. Definitely worth trying. Problem is you probably won’t want to leave.
