Spotlight: When a Freebie Isn’t Free, Part 1
Sometimes in business it’s the little things that kill.
I am always surprised by the number of business emails coming across my desk with a free email domain, such as example@yahoo.com and example@yourISP.com, so let’s start at step one and shed some light on what these free services could really be costing you if you are using them for business.
A free email address is not only seen as unprofessional but it does nothing to enhance your company image or branding – it advertises someone else’s domain name. You could be advertising YOUR business instead!
Most free web-based email services I have come across have a ‘lapse period’, meaning if you don’t sign in for a set period of time your account becomes inactive or, worse still, deleted. Also, if there is a problem with the service and it closes down you will most likely find yourself in the same situation. Free web-based email services will give you all the customer service you pay for. You will find it difficult and time consuming to get a response, and will probably end your experience feeling frustrated.
Most spammers use free web-based email services because it is easier to keep changing email addresses to avoid getting caught. People are becoming wise to this fact and are now starting to filter generic domains such as Yahoo!, Hotmail and Gmail; your emails might not even be getting through to your intended recipient or they might be sitting in the junk folder amongst offers for miracle pills and promises of larger body parts.
With an ISP provided email you don’t have as many issues with customer service if you encounter problems, as you are already paying for the Internet service. ISPs generally provide an FAQ/Help section on their website and/or a phone number you can call for assistance. Your main issue with an ISP email, such as example@aol.com, is your company image being seen as unprofessional. You are still advertising another business every time you give out your email address. You can think of all your business cards and email communications as free advertising for Bigpond, AOL or whichever ISP you are with.
Now imagine turning that around and advertising your own business instead. If you are advertising and find yourself short on space, you can include your email address and it will advertise your website domain as well. There have been countless times I have seen someone’s email address and have typed in the domain name after the ‘@’ to find their website.
Some people will advise you to set up a free email account for signing up to mailing lists or other places you want to remain fairly anonymous. My advice is to set up another email on your webhosting account – it’s also free to do and just as easy to delete. You will be advertising your own business and helping to build your business image/brand. Are you using a free webhosting service too? That’s ok, I’ll talk about that next month!
Do you have any questions that I haven’t answered about using a free email service for your business? Ask me by sending them in.
DISCLAIMER: This opinion-based article is not aimed at any particular service providers and the providers named are used for example purposes only.
[...] the last Spotlight I talked about the disadvantages of using free email for your business and told you I would also [...]