Permission Based Email Opt-in Methods

There are two subscription methods used:- single and double opt-in.

Single opt-in

With a single opt-in the subscriber fills out an online form or sends an email to a subscription address and they are automatically added to the email address list. Advantages

More email addresses captured
Easier for the subscriber
Easier to set up

Disadvantages

Address list quality generally low
People can use someone else's email address

Double opt-in

With Double opt-in the subscriber first subscribes by using the online form/email address, and then confirms the subscription by replying to a subscription confirmation email.

The subscriber is not added to the email address mailing list until he confirms the subscription.

Although not mandatory the double opt in method does have numerous advantages over the single opt-in method:

Reduces number of dead email addresses drastically
Reduces the chances that you will be sending email to someone that hasn't really subscribed and getting accused of spam.
Qualifies the subscriber as interested, as he has to do something extra.
Can command higher advertising fees.

Double opt-in is the preferred method to use

Offline Methods

When collecting/capturing addresses using offline methods no automatic confirmation is necessary.

Related Articles:

Collecting Email Addresses
Autoresponder Guide
Manual Email Mailing List Management- How to manually manage a mailing list

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