You probably already know this, but there are some steps you need to take in order to make sure your mass email or newsletter is mistake free. I know I have hit send several times and realize later that I have made an error.

  1. If you handle multiple mailing lists, make sure you are sending to the right list.
  2. Make sure the from address works. Email services such as Constant Contact, EZine Director and AWeber do this for you.
  3. Make the subject line accurate, short and compelling. The subject line should allow a reader to easily recognize what the message contains.
  4. Publish your newsletter online and provide a link for reading it in the browser. This is not necessary, but it directs traffic to your site and some readers prefer to read the newsletters in browsers.
  5. Check all images. Make sure they are displayed and there is alternative text so something shows up when images are blocked.
  6. Check all links.
  7. Check the newsletter date. This is especially important if you copy your previous newsletter and make updates to the content.
  8. Include a working unsubscribe link. This is done automatically with email services.
  9. Include a physical address (required by SPAM laws). This is done automatically with email services.
  10. View the email through different accounts (AOL, Hotmail, etc.) and email clients (webmail, Eudora, Outlook). If you have access, check your email on both Windows PC and Mac.

Sources:

“8 Steps Email Quality Control,” Above the Fold Email Marketing.
“Don’t Hit Send Yet!” AWeber Blog Posting, Justin Premick, May 22, 2007.