112:How to Create an Effective Email Marketing Calendar

Jun 11, 2024

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The Power of an Email Marketing Calendar

Several years ago, I took a leap by subscribing to a high-end email marketing service. While it was a significant monthly investment, the automation and detailed tracking it offered seemed promising. However, just having the tool wasn't enough—I needed to ensure it delivered a solid return on investment (ROI). That's where the email marketing calendar came into play.

I committed to a structured email marketing plan that revolved around a simple, yet powerful, three-part email series for each promotion. This approach wasn't just about sending emails; it was about sending the right emails at the right time. By the six-month mark, the results were undeniable. My monthly recurring revenue (MRR) had skyrocketed by 400%!

Simple Steps to Set Up Marketing Calendar

Step One: Find an Excuse to Email

The first step in creating your email marketing calendar is finding legitimate reasons to reach out to your audience. These can be as simple as recognizing holidays, special events, or even personal milestones like the anniversary of your business. The key is to create touchpoints that feel natural and engaging.

Step Two: Plan Your Campaigns Around These Excuses

Once you have your list of excuses, plot them on your calendar. This will give you a visual representation of when you should be communicating with your audience. Aim for at least one reason per month, which should be more than manageable.

Step Three: Craft Your Emails Using the GLF (Gain, Logic, Fear) Sequence

Each campaign should include three strategically crafted emails:

  1. Gain Email: Highlight what your clients will gain from your offer (e.g., a discount, added value).

  2. Logic Email: Use logical reasoning to explain why taking advantage of the offer makes sense.

  3. Fear Email: Introduce scarcity or a time limit to create urgency.

Why Consistency is Key

The real challenge—and the secret to success—in email marketing is consistency. Sticking to your calendar and executing your planned campaigns without fail is what separates thriving businesses from those that struggle. It’s not just about having great ideas; it’s about consistently implementing them.

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Time-Stamped Show Notes

  • [00:00:30] Introduction to the importance of an email marketing calendar.

  • [00:01:30] My personal journey with email marketing and the initial challenges.

  • [00:02:30] How the email marketing calendar transformed my business.

  • [00:03:30] Detailed explanation of setting up an email marketing calendar.

  • [00:05:00] Breakdown of the GLF email sequence and its effectiveness.

  • [00:06:30] Tips for crafting impactful Gain, Logic, and Fear emails.

  • [00:08:00] The importance of consistency in email marketing.

  • [00:09:30] Recap and the power of strategic email planning.

KILL/COMFORT — the Newsletter

I’ve spent 15+ years building better businesses and better humans. Each week, I share proven systems and sharp ideas to help you grow by killing comfort—every damn week

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KILL/COMFORT — the Newsletter

I’ve spent 15+ years building better businesses and better humans. Each week, I share proven systems and sharp ideas to help you grow by killing comfort—every damn week

Framer Template - Display

KILL/COMFORT — the Newsletter

I’ve spent 15+ years building better businesses and better humans. Each week, I share proven systems and sharp ideas to help you grow by killing comfort—every damn week

Framer Template - Display