Strategies for small businesses to avoid the Spam Likely designation

Permission-Based Marketing:

• Build and maintain a permission-based email list. Only send messages to individuals who have explicitly opted in to receive communications from your business.

Double Opt-In:

• Implement a double opt-in process, where users not only subscribe but also confirm their subscription through a verification email. This helps ensure that the email addresses are valid and owned by the intended recipients.

Provide Clear Opt-Out Options:

• Make it easy for recipients to unsubscribe from your emails. Include a visible and accessible opt-out link in every communication, and promptly honor opt-out requests.

Set Expectations:

• Clearly communicate the purpose of your communications during the sign-up process. Inform users about the type and frequency of emails they can expect to receive.

Segment Your Audience:

• Segment your email list based on user preferences and behaviors. Send targeted, relevant content to specific segments rather than sending generic messages to your entire list.

Avoid Spam Trigger Words:

• Refrain from using language or phrases commonly associated with spam in your email subject lines and content. This includes words like "free," "discount," or excessive use of exclamation points.

Personalize Your Emails:

• Personalize your emails to make them more relevant to individual recipients. Use the recipient's name and tailor content based on their past interactions with your business.

Use a Recognizable Sender Name:

• Ensure that the sender name is recognizable and associated with your business. Avoid using generic or suspicious sender names that may trigger spam filters.

Authenticate Your Emails:

• Implement authentication mechanisms such as SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) to verify the authenticity of your emails. This helps prevent email spoofing and phishing.

Monitor Your Sending Reputation:

• Regularly monitor your sending reputation using tools like Sender Score. A good sending reputation is essential for email deliverability.

Avoid Attachments and Embedded Forms:

• Refrain from sending emails with large attachments, as they can trigger spam filters. Additionally, avoid embedding forms directly in emails.

Regularly Update Your Email List:

• Remove inactive or bouncing email addresses from your list regularly. A clean and updated list helps improve your sender reputation.

Test Before Sending:

• Before sending large email campaigns, test a small sample to check for any issues with spam filters. Adjust your content or formatting as needed.

Use a Reputable Email Service Provider:

• Choose a reputable email service provider that follows best practices and has measures in place to prevent spam.

Stay Informed About Spam Regulations:

• Stay informed about spam laws and regulations, and ensure that your email marketing practices comply with them.