Social Media Invite Emails That Are a Marketing “Do”

 Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, the list of social media networking sites continues to grow. And, once you’ve created your account on the latest social network, or even if you have an established account, how do you get people to find it? Email marketing, of course! Sending an email invitation asking readers to follow your business on a social network may not seem intuitive, but it can be an effective and easy way to grow your following. Your email list is full of people interested in your biz, and getting them to interact with you on social media can help build your relationship with them and keep your business top of mind.

Before we jump into some excellent social media email invite examples, here are a few tips for creating an effective invite. Now it may seem obvious, but always make sure (in any email you send) to include a link and/or a call-to-action button that entices readers to follow you. Also, make sure the email is:

• Informative – Let your readers know what they’re going to get or find if they do start following your business on social.
• Easy to read – Remember to include all the social sites you’re on and link to each one – Some people prefer different social sites.
• Short – Just like any invitation, give important info, make the copy fun and personable and that’s it. Keep readers focused.

Now that we’ve discussed some tips, let’s take a look at a few “do” examples:

The Container Store – The Container Store’s social invite email focuses purely on their social networks, so it’s easy for readers to know what to do. It’s short, fun and shares the different things one can expect to find at each social site (i.e., time-saving tips). Plus, they include calls-to-action in the form of a “Go” button!

Zulily – Zulily created a charming graphic for their social invite email email which calls out each of their social networks. They also have a catchy headline: “Calling all social butterflies.” Plus, they provide a compelling reason to follow them on each social site (i.e., get inspired, share & shop).

CETFA – This non-profit included a single, funny and attention-grabbing image in their social invite email. They share their new social sites, plus the ones they’re established on and they give reasons why to follow them on each one.

The most important thing to keep in mind when creating a social media invite is to answer the following questions: “How can I provide value to my readers and followers?” and “What’s in it for them?” Then, keep followers coming back for more with engaging posts and conversations.

Looking for a little more on this subject? Jay Baer, the social media guru and author of the best-selling book Youtility, has a popular keynote entitled Why Email is Madonna and Facebook is Lady Gaga. Baer talks about how email and Facebook marketing are really very similar. Check it out for more inspiration.

Have you used email invitations to grow your following on social media? Share your experiences or invites in the comments.

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