The Difference Between Email And Email Marketing

Author:

DJ Waldow

Source:

Does swapping business cards at a networking event, meeting, social function, etc, give people the right to add you to their database and start sending you their e-newsletter?

This was the question posted about a month ago in the eMarketing Association Network LinkedIn group. As I write this, there are 267 comments (now 273 ... 278). This is from a question proposed 30+ days ago. There are lots of opinions. It's worth joining the group just to skim through the comments.

Before I dissect the answers, I think it's time to clear up some confusion about email vs. email marketing. Sending an email is not the same as executing an email marketing campaign.

Email: My mom sent me an email last week with a link to an article. My boss sent me an email yesterday asking for a (TPS) report. My wife forwarded me an email this morning about an event this weekend.

Email Marketing: Apple sent me an email introducing the iPad. Costco sent me an email highlighting its upcoming promotions. United sent me an email reminding me of an upcoming flight.

Do you see the difference? Allow me to get a few definitions (mine) on the table...