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When a “E-Mail Marketing” coach at Entrepreneur.com talks about the positives of an e-mail marketing service for small businesses you have to listen if your new to e-mail marketing or a long time veteran.Gail F. Goodman has a interesting view here’s the scoop:

5 Tips to Get Started

1. Choose a reputable e-mail marketing service provider. Features to look for include affordable plans, a variety of easy-to-use templates for different kinds of e-mails, e-mail list management, a commitment to e-mail marketing standards and best practices, and access to support and helpful resources.

2. Collect e-mail addresses. Even if your mailing list is just a few friends and family members, that’s enough to get started. Grow your list by collecting names during your regular course of business, whether it’s at a home product party or a chamber of commerce event.

3. Get permission. Before you send anyone a commercial e-mail marketing communication, remember to get permission. Permission is perishable, so don’t wait months to e-mail someone after you get their contact info. And you must offer a way for recipients to unsubscribe or opt out of your mailings.

4. Make your first mailing count. This could be a simple announcement that you’re open for business or an e-mail that welcomes people who recently joined your list. Thank recipients for joining and tell them who you are, what you offer and why you’re e-mailing them. Your first e-mail is your opportunity to make a good impression and show the benefits of being on your e-mail list. Include a “forward to a friend” link so people can easily share your correspondence with others who might be interested in what you offer.

5. Create a schedule. Plan to communicate with customers via e-mail at least six times a year. Once a month is even better. If you plan to e-mail more often–and you may if you run events or weekly specials–make sure you are providing information your contacts value.