Be a Marketer with Dave Charest

A section of a train in his basement isn't the most interesting thing about Jason Shron. It's how he turned an obsession with model trains into a thriving international business — simply by being himself. In fact, he left his PhD program in art history to pursue his passion full-time.Jason, two decades later, is the president of Rapido Trains Inc., Canada's largest manufacturer of high-end model trains, with operations in North America and the UK.Rapido is built on a foundation of attention to detail and radical transparency. "If we screw up, we just tell people," Jason explains on this episode of Be a Marketer. "Being totally straight with customers has transformed how they connect with our brand."What can small business owners learn from a company that achieves 81% email open rates? On this episode, Jason and host Dave Charest unpack how obsessive honesty drives customer loyalty, why embracing your passion is marketing magic, and the incredible ROI of knowing your audience.Tune in to discover how your business can harness Constant Contact tools to build deeper customer connections and resonate with your audience.Additional Resources:Overview: Email resend optionsUnderstanding contact segmentationInstall a contact sign-up form on a websiteCreate a sign-up landing page Meet Today's Guest: Jason Shron of Rapido Trains Inc.

Building your business on social media is like renting a house—you've decorated it beautifully, but the landlord can change the rules anytime. Your email list, however, is property you own outright. This distinction can make or break a small business when platforms change algorithms or face potential bans.In this episode, Dave Charest speaks with Constant Contact product leaders Jesus Flores, Product Manager focused on audience growth; Ryan Burke, Director of Product specializing in small business growth; and Mike Crawford, Senior Product Manager responsible for the contacts experience. They discuss the risks of relying solely on social media for marketing and why building a contact list you actually own is the foundation of sustainable marketing."Owning your audience means having a direct line of communication with people who have explicitly shown interest in your brand, typically through an email list without a dependency on a governing social platform," explains Jesus. "It's your list, you own it. You can carry it from platform to platform."The team discusses how businesses can convert social followers into email subscribers, introduces Constant Contact's new Lead Magnet tool, and explains how contact data helps create more effective marketing campaigns.Whether you're just starting to build your contact list or looking to better leverage your existing contacts, this episode offers actionable strategies to help turn audience growth into business growth.Additional Resources:Create a Facebook and Instagram AdCreate a Pop-Up Contact Sign-Up Form for Your WebsiteCreate a QR code from a URLCreate a Google Ad with KlikenUsing Contact Lists, Tags, and Segments Based on Your List SizeOverview: Email ReportingInstall a Contact Sign-Up Form on a WebsiteCreate a Sign-up Landing Page to Collect New Email and SMS Contacts OnlineCreate a Lead Magnet and Capture LeadsCreate and Manage Custom Contact FieldsLatest Small Business Now ReportMeet Today's Guests: Jesus Flores, Ryan Burke, and Mike Crawford of Constant Contact Jesus Flores 

Imagine a baseball team that throws out the rulebook—not just for the game, but for how they do business. Meet the Savannah Bananas, a team that's less about scoring runs and more about sparking joy.Led by owner Jesse Cole, this isn't your typical sports team. As Jesse puts it, "We have no interest in being a billion-dollar business, but we want to create a billion fans." The Bananas have grown into a fan-driven phenomenon built on a simple but radical idea: put fans first and never stop entertaining. When most teams chase sponsorship dollars, the Bananas ditch ads and create experiences people can't stop talking about.Their approach is delightfully unconventional. They've removed third-party ticketing fees, sent handwritten thank-you notes, and featured players who might break into dance mid-game. Marketing that doesn't feel like marketing. The result? They recently sold out their first NFL stadium, are building a passionate fanbase, and proving that when you truly put people first, the money follows. Join Jesse, Kara, Carson, and host Dave Charest for this masterclass in customer experience that any business can learn from.Additional resourcesCreate and Manage TagsUnderstanding Contact SegmentationGetting Started with the Automation Path BuilderConnect your Shopify account to Constant ContactMeet Today's Guests: Jesse Cole, Kara Heater and Carson Bowen of Savannah Bananas

Dan Knowlton didn't plan to build a top-performing content agency by dressing up in wigs and fake mustaches — but that's what helped him stand out.In 2015, Dan and his brother Lloyd launched their marketing agency, Knowlton, from a spare room in their parents' house. No roadmap. No fancy setup. Just two brothers figuring it out as they went. What changed everything? Defining clear roles, setting long-term goals, and creating content people actually want to watch."It has taken us so much longer to get to where we are now than I thought at the start point," Dan says, reflecting on the patience and persistence it took to grow a sustainable business.In this episode of Be A Marketer, host Dave Charest talks with Dan about growing from chaos to clarity. They unpack how to align your marketing with your strengths, what most small businesses get wrong about content, and why measuring results will sharpen your focus.You'll hear how Dan treats his agency like a client, how one strategy helped them double in size, and what Dan thinks every small business owner should start doing today.Additional Resources:Getting started with the Automation Path BuilderUsing Constant Contact SEO toolsHow to Set Up an Effective Automated Welcome Email Series (with Examples)Set up to automatically resend to contacts who don't open their email feature in Constant ContactMeet Today's Guest: Dan Knowlton of Knowlton Marketing☕ What he does: Dan Knowlton is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Knowlton, a UK-based marketing agency he started with his brother in 2015. The duo is known for blending creativity with strategy to create content people actually enjoy. Knowlton has worked with major brands like the BBC, Nestlé, and Constant Contact.

The Gregangelo Museum wasn't supposed to exist. It began as a run-down rental in San Francisco — a place where artist Gregangelo Herrera patched collapsing rooms with found materials, turning repairs into creative experiments. One of those repairs became a full-blown art installation. One became two. Then three. Forty years later, the house is a city landmark, and the team behind it is reshaping what immersive art and marketing can look like.In this episode, host Dave Charest talks with Gregangelo Herrera, Artistic Director of the Gregangelo Museum and Velocity Arts & Entertainment; Angelica Irreno, Artist Manager and Marketing Coordinator; and Marcelo Defreitas, Creative Director. Together, they share how they transformed a private home into an immersive storytelling experience — and how that became their most effective marketing tool. “We didn't sit down and make a strategy,” Marcelo says. “By doing it, we reinvented.”Tune in to hear how they leaned into storytelling over ads, how this small team markets through meaning, not money, and how their outdoor art garden helped them stay open during the pandemic.Additional Resources:Create a reusable email templateGuide: Create, customize, and send an emailUnderstanding contact segmentationCompare reporting stats for multiple emailsConstant Contact: Email MarketingMeet Today's Guests: Gregangelo Herrera, Angelica Irreno, and Marcelo Defreitas of Gregangelo Museum and Velocity Arts & Entertainment.

Selling a business wasn't part of Lorraine Ball's original plan. But after nearly two decades of running her marketing agency, Roundpeg, she knew it was time for a change.Rather than walking away entirely, Lorraine kept the pieces she loved — her podcast, “More Than a Few Words”, and her consulting work — while selling the rest. “The day you start [your business], you need to think about your exit,” she says on Be A Marketer. “You want to build a business that someone will want to buy.”On this episode of Be A Marketer, host Dave Charest sits down with Lorraine to explore the key lessons she's learned along the way. She shares why answering customer questions is one of the most effective ways to improve marketing, how business owners should plan for their exit strategy from day one, and why automation is essential for filtering and prioritizing leads.As a longtime Constant Contact Partner, Lorraine also dives into how marketing automation and email segmentation have helped her streamline her efforts, engage her audience more effectively, and deliver personalized experiences that drive results.Additional Resources:Email Marketing Automation SoftwareClick Segmentation FeatureConstant Contact IntegrationsConstant Contact Partner ProgramsMeet Today's Guest: Lorraine Ball of More Than a Few Words☕ What she does: Lorraine is a marketing strategist, Constant Contact Partner, and host of the More Than a Few Words podcast. After nearly two decades running her agency, Roundpeg, she transitioned into consulting, helping businesses refine their marketing strategies and improve their results.

Running a successful marketing campaign doesn't require a massive team or unlimited resources. Sometimes, it just takes a small, dedicated group that knows how to connect with people on a personal level.That's exactly what Marc Newberry and Jasmin Bollman have accomplished at Genumark, Canada's leader in custom-branded merchandise and apparel. With a marketing team of just four people, they've mastered the art of personalized communication while expanding into the US market."Having those emails coming from the account managers rather than the info@Genumark email is definitely the best half an hour I spend in my marketing week or month," Marc explains, highlighting a simple yet effective strategy that dramatically improves their engagement rates. By personalizing each email to come from the client's specific account manager, they achieve better open rates and direct client-representative communication.On this episode of Be a Marketer, Marc and Jasmin join host Dave Charest to reveal how their small marketing team achieves big results through authentic communication. They discuss their recent rebranding process, how they maintain a consistent brand voice, and why personalization is crucial for cutting through inbox clutter.Tune in to discover their 30-minute email marketing hack, how they organize their marketing calendar around a monthly newsletter, and practical tips for humanizing your business communications to build stronger customer relationships.Additional Resources:Personalize and Connect: Customer Relationship MarketingPersonalized Emails: Boost Customer Connection with Tailored Strategies2025 Online Marketing Calendar: Template and Marketing HolidaysUnderstanding the Anatomy of an EmailHow to Get More Customers to Open Your EmailsMeet Today's Guests: Marc Newberry and Jasmin Bollman of Genumark Marc Newberry

In this final episode of Be A Marketer - Real Estate edition, hosts Dave Charest, Stephanie Alfonso, and co-host Kelsi Carter, recap key lessons from their six-episode deep dive into marketing strategies for real estate professionals. But these insights aren't just for real estate, business owners across industries can apply these takeaways to their own marketing efforts.From the power of education-based marketing to leveraging AI and automation, Dave, Stephanie, and Kelsi reflect on the most impactful advice shared by expert guests, including Marki Lemons Rhyal, Christine George, Verl Workman, Ian Hoover, and Anthony Lamacchia.They discuss:✔️ Why giving away knowledge builds trust and authority✔️ The importance of owning your niche and branding with intention✔️ How to delegate effectively to scale your business✔️ The role of culture in team-building and retention✔️ Why embracing AI and automation is crucial for modern marketingWhether you're in real estate or another industry, this episode provides actionable marketing strategies to help you grow your business with confidence.Additional Resources:AI-Powered Marketing Tools for Small BusinessesHow to Build an Effective Email ListContent Marketing Strategies That Drive EngagementMeet Today's Hosts: Dave Charest, Stephanie Alfonso, & Kelsi Carter of Constant Contact

Running a business that lets customers choose what they pay might sound like a recipe for failure. But for Carissa Reiniger, Founder and CEO of Silver Lining, it's part of a 20-year mission to change the global economy one small business at a time.Using her background in psychology, Carissa used behavioral change to build a company that helps small businesses set and hit financial goals. Her SLAP (Silver Lining Action Plan) platform serves tens of thousands of businesses in 77 countries, focusing on giving entrepreneurs the structure and support they need to succeed."I would estimate that on average, when small businesses come to SLAP, they are wasting — and I'm using that word very intentionally — about 80% of their time and 80% of their money. They are misusing it," Carissa reveals during her conversation on the Be a Marketer podcast. "  I don't mean they're cheating, I mean that they're spending it on things that are not helping them grow their business."What has worked for Silver Lining so far? On this episode, Carissa and host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, explore the challenges of the "Cash Flow Capacity Catch 22" and how business owners can break free from it.Tune in to discover why focusing exclusively on the highest-priority activities matters and how building a business on your terms leads to both financial success and meaningful impact.Additional Resources:Tips for Building a Solid Content Marketing StrategyEmail Marketing Conversion Rate: Enhance Your Campaigns for Better ROIUsing The Customer Journey Map to Personalize Email MarketingPersonalize and Connect: Customer Relationship MarketingMeet Today's Guest: Carissa Reiniger of Silver Lining

Anthony Lamacchia learned the power of aggressive marketing at a young age while working with his father in construction. One postcard would bring in dozens of calls and thousands in deposits.When he entered real estate in 2004, he brought that bold marketing mindset but quickly discovered that different businesses require different approaches. Through trial and error, Anthony found unique selling propositions that helped him build Lamacchia Realty into a powerhouse brokerage across New England and South Florida."When you educate, you attract," Anthony says on this episode of Be A Marketer. This philosophy has helped him build an audience of nearly 100,000 realtors across the country and establish himself as a thought leader in the industry.In this conversation with hosts Dave Charest and Stephanie Alfonso, Anthony shares his marketing journey and the principles that drive his success. Learn how to identify marketing "veins" worth pursuing, why consistency builds top-of-mind awareness, and when to pivot your strategy when a vein dries up.Tune in to discover why education-based content works so well, how to segment your audience effectively, and why boldness in marketing separates successful businesses from the competition.Additional Resources:Create Targeted Segments of Your Email ListEmail Sign-Up Tools to Help You Grow Your List and Your BusinessGrab Attention with These Subject Line Best PracticesMeet Today's Guest: Anthony Lamacchia of Lamacchia Realty

Tattooed, pierced, a school dropout who'd worked minimum wage jobs her entire life, Lea Turner initially thought LinkedIn wasn't "for people like her."In 2019, she was a single parent running a small transcription service, struggling to make ends meet and relying on government support. The corporate, polished world of professional networking seemed light-years away from her reality.But everything changed when Lea decided to do something radical: be entirely, unapologetically herself."I kind of had a screw it moment. I'm just gonna be myself because this is not fun. Pretending to be corporate, pretending to be some professional businesswoman that's like everybody else, is never gonna work for me because that's not who I am," Lea explains.What unfolded is a remarkable story of transformation that defies every traditional career narrative. By embracing her uniqueness—her humor, candid storytelling, and real-life experiences as a single mom—Lea turned LinkedIn from an intimidating platform into her greatest business asset. Her follower count exploded from 400 to 10,000 in just a few months. More importantly, she gained over 100 inbound clients for her transcription business, proving that authenticity is the most powerful marketing tool.On this episode of Be A Marketer, join Lea and host Dave Charest for this masterclass on personal branding, marketing strategy, and the power of embracing your true self as Lea shares how this journey led to the creation of The HoLT, her membership community designed for small business owners, freelancers, and solopreneurs. Additional Resources:Email Marketing Tips You Need To KnowLinkedIn 101How to Get Started on a LinkedIn Marketing StrategyBuild an Effective Email List: Strategies, Tactics, and Best PracticeMeet Today's Guest: Lea Turner of The HoLT☕ What she does: Lea is the founder of The House of LT (The HoLT), a membership community for small business owners, freelancers, and solopreneurs. She's a single mother, podcast host, and former LinkedIn trainer who transformed her business through strategic marketing.

When Ian S. Hoover got fired from his job in retail, he wasn't expecting it to lead to him opening a real estate brokerage one day. After a few drinks at his former partner's daughter's wedding, a casual conversation sparked the launch of Deacon & Hoover Real Estate Advisors in 2017.Today, his brokerage stands as the second-largest independent firm in Western Pennsylvania, and he's authored a book called "Short-Term Memory Loss" about his journey. But success didn't come from chasing top producers. Instead, Ian built a culture focused on developing new talent into high performers."I can lead a horse to water, can't force them to drink it. I can show you how to sell real estate, but if you can't hold a conversation, you might have some problems. You got to build those relationships and that rapport," Ian explains. On this episode of Be A Marketer (Real Estate Edition), host Dave Charest and real estate expert Stephanie Alfonso talk to Ian about his approach to brokerage growth. Learn how he leverages AI and automation for business efficiency, builds strong agent relationships, and maintains a "short-term memory loss" mindset that turns setbacks into opportunities.Additional Resources:Email Marketing Guide for Real Estate AgentsReal Estate Brokerage Marketing: The Broker's ManualThe Ultimate Guide on How to Recruit Real Estate AgentsHow to Put Together a Real Estate Marketing PlanMeet Today's Guest: Ian Hoover of Deacon & Hoover Real Estate Advisors

Nonprofits face a constant challenge: delivering their message effectively with limited resources. For Nick Fynn, Head of Global Growth Marketing at TechSoup, this reality drives his mission to help organizations bridge the gap between technology and social impact.Nick has a deep understanding of effective communication strategies through his work at TechSoup, a global nonprofit that connects other nonprofits with essential technology resources. "You cannot not communicate," Nick explains. Everything you do is communicating to your audience, and this includes when you are not saying something to them."During this episode of Be a Marketer, Nick and host Dave Charest explore the fundamentals of nonprofit messaging and how organizations can maintain consistent communication despite limited resources. They discuss why email remains a powerful tool for nonprofit outreach, how to speak the language of different audiences, and ways to develop intentional communication strategies that resonate.Listen in as Nick shares practical advice for nonprofits looking to strengthen their messaging approach. He also reveals how TechSoup's tiered membership model helps organizations make smarter technology decisions while building a collaborative nonprofit community. Additional Resources:Constant Contact for Nonprofits Offer DetailsThe Key to Effective Email Segmentation for NonprofitThe Complete Guide to Nonprofit Email MarketingCharity Marketing Strategies: Boost Your Nonprofit's ImpactMeet Today's Guest: Nick Fynn of TechSoup

From satellite dishes and hot tubs to coaching real estate teams, Verl Workman's entrepreneurial journey is full of unexpected turns. Facing hardship early in life, Verl developed a strong work ethic and a knack for sales. A chance encounter with a satisfied customer led him to a successful career in real estate. But Verl's drive to innovate pushed him beyond traditional real estate sales, into technology training and public speaking. Now, as CEO and co-founder of Workman Success Systems, he empowers real estate teams to achieve "predictable greatness."Verl challenges the solo agent model, advocating for the power of teams in real estate. He emphasizes leverage and delegation as keys to a balanced life. "Anything you do three times, create a system for it," Verl advises, encouraging realtors to prioritize high-value activities and delegate less profitable tasks. This approach frees up time for family and personal pursuits while building a successful business.On this episode of the Be a Marketer podcast - Real Estate Edition, Verl sits down with hosts Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, and Stephanie Alonso, Sr. Director, Vertical Innovation at Constant Contact, to share his unique system for achieving predictable success in real estate. They delve into niche marketing, building a family-centric business culture, and harnessing the power of storytelling to forge deeper connections with clients. Additional Resources:The Power Of Segmentation (And How To Start)8 Best Practices for Email List SegmentationHow to Avoid Real Estate Agent BurnoutThe Power of Storytelling: How Great Stories Turn People into Brand Champions Raving Referrals For Real Estate Agents: The Proven Step-By-Step System To Build A Profitable Real Estate BusinessAbout Raving Referrals for Real Estate AgentsMeet Today's Guest: Verl Workman of Workman Success Systems

When most real estate agents sell a property, they often lose the customer to property managers, insurance agents, and other service providers. But Jacqui Luberto saw an opportunity to change this pattern.Jacqui opened her brokerage in 2020, on the day Florida shut down and has since built a network of six interconnected businesses that help clients at every step of their ownership journey."I look at a property when I sell it to someone, and I say, 'What are all of the things they can do with this property?' I want to be a part of their entire journey," Jacqui shares on the Be a Marketer podcast.What drives Jacqui's success? In this episode, Jacqui and host Dave Charest explore how she leverages her marketing background to build lasting customer relationships. They discuss her strategic approach to timing customer communications, why social media positivity matters, and how she uses monthly community events to stand out in a crowded market.Listen in to learn how Jacqui uses Constant Contact's versatile platform to manage communications across multiple businesses, ensuring she stays connected with customers throughout their journey. Additional Resources:●  Real Estate Content Ideas to Get More Clients●  Real Estate Client Appreciation Ideas: Events, Gifts, and More●  Real Estate Lead Conversion: Nurture Leads and Increase Sales●  Content Marketing for Real EstateMeet Today's Guest: Jacqui Luberto of Realty One Group & One Family Property Services

Being a successful real estate agent demands a clear and authentic personal brand. Christine George, CEO and Founder of Post & Beam Creative, didn't set out to help agents sell more homes. Instead, she focuses on helping them uncover their unique identities and stand out in a crowded market.Christine has spent over 15 years in the real estate industry, refining strategies that empower agents to market themselves with confidence. In this episode, she shares her journey and her "three A's" framework: Awaken, Activate, and Amplify. Through this process, agents can define their niche, craft intentional marketing strategies, and make authentic connections with their ideal clients."When you are true to who you are, your clients feel it," Christine explains. "They feel it. So focus on what you do and what you do well and continue to challenge yourself along the way, but forget about what everybody else is doing because they're not watching you and whatever they're doing."Tune in today to the Be a Marketer podcast with hosts Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, and Stephanie Alfonso, Senior Director of Vertical Innovation at Constant Contact, to discover how to craft your unique brand, attract your dream clients, and make meaningful connections that fuel your success.Additional Resources:Get Started With Email Marketing: 10 Things You Need to Do FirstHow to Build an Effective Email List: Best Practices and StrategiesHow to Set Up an Effective Automated Welcome Email Series (with Examples)Goal Getter: 3 Email Marketing Goals to Set for the New YearMeet Today's Guest: Christine George of Post & Beam Creative

Building a real estate empire wasn't Marki Lemons Ryhal's first career choice. A fifth-generation entrepreneur, she found her way to real estate after a lawsuit with her family and because she wanted a flexible career as a working mom. Now a global keynote speaker, author, and prop tech investor, Marki's journey is anything but ordinary.In this episode, the first of the Be a Marketer podcast - Real Estate limited series, Marki shares her unconventional path to success and the lessons she's learned. She pulls back the curtain on real estate agents' struggles, emphasizing the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset. “A lack of consistency is your business killer,” she warns, highlighting the need for disciplined action.Join Marki and hosts Stephanie Alonso and Dave Charest as they explore the power of video marketing, landing pages, and CRMs. Discover why giving new agents leads can be counterproductive and how diversifying income streams is crucial for long-term growth. Marki offers practical advice for agents and brokers, stressing the importance of innovation and leveraging technology, especially AI. Tune in to learn how to make the most of your real estate career.Additional Resources:Drive With NAR PodcastCreate a Video Marketing Strategy with 5 Easy StepsReal Estate Video Marketing Guide: Top Ideas to Help You Sell MoreHow to Create Consistent, Effective Marketing HabitsMastering Your Marketing Automation Strategy: A Comprehensive GuideMeet Today's Guest: Marki Lemons Ryhal of ReMarkiTable LLC

Starting a business often means learning to trust yourself first — especially when battling both personal and professional challenges.Teresa Heath-Wareing built a six-figure agency as a single parent, then transformed it into a successful online business. But her journey involved more than just business growth; she also sought authenticity in both marketing and life."I built a six-figure business while drunk or hungover," Teresa shares candidly about her past struggle with alcohol addiction. “So, if I can do that, what the hell can I do now that I am 100% clear-headed and focused?"Teresa discusses the real meaning of showing up vulnerably in your marketing, why email marketing beats social media for building relationships, and how she generates revenue through multiple streams. She also breaks down the mindset shifts needed to overcome imposter syndrome and self-sabotage.On this episode of Constant Contact's Be a Marketer podcast, join host Dave Charest and Teresa as they explore what it really means to market authentically online, the importance of building your email list before anything else, and why consistency in the right marketing channels matters more than trying to do everything.

After a career in Los Angeles, Aljolynn Sperber returned to her hometown with a vision. She became the Executive Director of Visit Kitsap Peninsula, combining her marketing skills with her passion for her community. Her goal is to both promote the area to visitors and build a strong sense of belonging for locals.This is not just about attracting tourists; for Aljolynn, it's about making everyone feel welcome. This involves partnering with local businesses and prioritizing core values. "The overall story is we want people to feel like they belong when they come here," she shares on the Be A Marketer podcast, a series dedicated to helping Constant Contact customers succeed with marketing.In this episode, host Dave Charest and Aljolynn dive into her strategies for destination marketing. They discuss the need for a modern, mobile-responsive website and how she uses data to inform her decisions. They also cover the value of email segmentation and how she engages her audience with polls and surveys.Tune in to discover how Aljolynn balances innovation with tradition, cultivates meaningful community connections, and consistently promotes her core values, while boosting Kitsap.Additional Resources:Why a Mobile Responsive Website MattersMobile-Friendly vs Mobile-ResponsiveGoal Getter: 3 Email Marketing Goals to Set for the New YearSurvey Questions: Find the Best Tools for Crafting Effective SurveysSet up to automatically resend to contacts who don't open their email feature in Constant ContactMeet Today's Guest: Aljolynn Sperber of Visit Kitsap Peninsula

From the slopes to the screen, Lena Niedzielin's marketing journey is anything but predictable. Growing up skiing in New England, Lena never imagined she'd be managing an indoor ski facility in London. But as the manager of Skieasy, she's traded her skis for spreadsheets and discovered a passion for connecting people with winter sports, all year round.However, marketing an indoor ski center presents unique challenges. How do you reach an audience that may not even know your business exists? On this episode of Be A Marketer, Lena shares her secrets to success, including her innovative use of Constant Contact to build customer relationships and drive off-season sales. “It's a huge challenge to find one specific strategy that would work for all our customers,” Lena explains, highlighting the need for targeted marketing.Tune in to discover how Lena leverages email marketing, community engagement, and local events to grow her contact list and keep skiers coming back for more, even when the sun is shining. On this episode, Lena and host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, unpack practical tips for data-driven decision-making, crafting engaging newsletters, and maximizing your marketing ROI.Additional Resources:Getting started with the Automation Path BuilderCustomer Feedback: How to Get It and How to Use ItPersonalized Emails: Boost Customer Connection with Tailored StrategiesHow to Use Surveys on Social MediaMeet Today's Guest: Lena Niedzielin of Skieasy⛷️ What she does: Lena Niedzielin is the manager of Skieasy, an indoor ski facility at Duke Meadows in West London. Passionate about skiing and connecting people with winter sports, Lena leverages her marketing skills to grow the business and overcome the challenges of promoting a niche market. She is a Constant Contact customer.

Who knew a simple idea to bake together virtually could turn into a thriving online community? When the pandemic hit, Christina Tosi, chef and founder of Milk Bar, and Shannon Salzano, Milk Bar's Brand Director, found themselves searching for a way to connect with people. Turning their cameras on, they invited others to join them in the kitchen, creating a space for comfort and connection amidst the uncertainty. Thus, Bake Club was born, offering a much-needed sense of togetherness during a difficult time. It quickly evolved, becoming a vibrant online community centered around sharing recipes and a heartfelt newsletter, delivered straight to inboxes like a warm hug.For Christina and Shannon, Bake Club is about more than just baking. "We're a business that shows up for people," Christina says on this episode of Be A Marketer, a podcast dedicated to helping small business owners like you make sense of online marketing. Join Christina, Shannon, and host  Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, as they explore Bake Club's delicious journey, uncovering their secret ingredients to community building and the power of authentic connection.Tune in to discover how Bake Club leverages the power of email marketing to nurture genuine relationships, the importance of adapting to change, and their experience using Constant Contact to achieve marketing success. Christina and Shannon also share invaluable insights for business owners at any stage, emphasizing that building a successful business — much like baking a perfect cake — takes time and dedication. Additional Resources:How Does Community Outreach Support Business Growth?Personalized Emails: Boost Customer Connection with Tailored StrategiesThe Power Of Segmentation (And How To Start)8 Best Practices for Email List SegmentationMeet Today's Guests: Christina Tosi and Shannon Salzano of Bake Club

The future of marketing feels like a runaway train. It's exciting, sure, but also terrifying. How do you keep up and plan for success when the ground beneath you seems to shift constantly? Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, Brand Production Coordinator at Constant Contact, understand this struggle. That's why they've dedicated this episode of the Be a Marketer podcast to helping small business owners like you thrive in 2025. They've compiled five key strategies, gleaned from conversations with successful business owners, to help you succeed."If you think of marketing as a tool, it's really this idea of communicating with the people that are open to hearing your message and then finding the places where you can find more of those people and getting in front of them and then keeping your business top of mind with them," Dave explains. This episode unpacks that idea, offering practical advice you can implement immediately. Discover the power of community building, the importance of continuous learning, and how automation can free up your time.Tune in to learn how to segment your audience for personalized marketing and why regularly reviewing your strategies is crucial for growth. Dave and Kelsi share real-world examples from Constant Contact customers, demonstrating how these strategies have led to real success. Get actionable tips and valuable insights to make 2025 your best year yet.Additional Resources:Getting started with the Automation Path BuilderMarketing Automation Trends to Know in 2025How to Set Up an Effective Automated Welcome Email Series (with Examples)Email List Segmentation From A (as in Age) to Z (as in Zip Code)Set up to automatically resend to contacts who don't open their email feature in Constant ContactMeet Today's Hosts: Dave Charest & Kelsi Carter of Constant Contact

Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, Brand Production Coordinator at Constant Contact, have spent the year chatting with small business owners and marketing experts on the Be a Marketer podcast, gathering insights to help entrepreneurs thrive.Now, they're ready to share the best of those lessons. From goal-setting to storytelling, they've covered a lot of ground. But one theme keeps popping up: the need for flexibility. "Everything is changing all the time," Dave notes. "You often have to have an idea of where you're going to go and almost be broad with setting those objectives."Dave and Kelsi also explore the power of community engagement, the importance of audience-focused content, and how marketing automation can be a game-changer for small businesses.Tune in to hear how successful businesses are leveraging these strategies, what's working for building engaged audiences, and how you can apply these lessons to make 2025 your best year yet. Also, get Kelsi's updates on her ducks and how she plans to keep them comfortable through the winter. Additional Resources:Getting started with the Automation Path BuilderUsing Constant Contact SEO toolsHow to Set Up an Effective Automated Welcome Email Series (with Examples)Set up to automatically resend to contacts who don't open their email feature in Constant ContactMeet Today's Guests: Dave Charest & Kelsi Carter of Constant Contact

Most small business owners excel in their chosen fields, but marketing often feels like uncharted territory. You know you need a website and an email list, but what should your website look like? What should you be sending to your email list? And how do you know if any of it is even working?David Fischer, Founder and CEO of Solutions for Growth and Constant Contact Community Coach, understands these challenges. For 14 years, he and his team have helped small businesses nationwide elevate their marketing efforts and get real results.David joined Dave Charest on the Be a Marketer podcast to share his insights on how to level up your email marketing using the power of segmentation. Simply put, segmentation means dividing your email list into smaller groups based on specific criteria, like demographics, purchase history, or even engagement levels. This allows you to send more personalized and relevant emails that resonate with each subscriber.“The more targeted and more specific the message is to those people, the more it will resonate with them and the better results you're going to get," David explains.Tune in to learn tactical tips for segmenting your email list, understanding the difference between lists and segments, and sending the right message to the right people at the right time.Additional Resources:Email List SegmentationSegment Your ListsEmail List Segmentation Best Practices

Are your email marketing reports leaving you feeling puzzled? You're getting opens, you're even getting clicks, but are those translating to real results for your business?On this episode of Be a Marketer, Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, sits down with Lindsay Higgins, owner of L2L Creative Group and a Constant Contact Certified Partner. Lindsay understands the struggle of deciphering marketing reports. She shares her insights on going beyond vanity metrics like opens and click-through rates, to focus on what truly matters: conversions and achieving overall business goals.“There's so many different methods of reviewing if your email actually worked,” says Lindsay. “But I think it goes back to the initial goal of your email and then kind of build from that.”Tune in to discover Lindsay's advice on testing subject lines, optimizing send times, and using resends effectively. You'll learn how aligning your email content with your goals can unlock success and boost conversion.Additional Resources:Getting started with the Automation Path BuilderUsing Constant Contact SEO toolsHow to Set Up an Effective Automated Welcome Email Series (with Examples)Set up to automatically resend to contacts who don't open their email feature in Constant ContactMeet Today's Guest: Lindsay Higgins of L2L Creative Group

Juggling a business is hard enough without adding the pressure of mastering multiple marketing channels. It's easy to feel overwhelmed, spreading yourself thin across social media, email, and who-knows-what-else. But what if there was a way to streamline your efforts and make your marketing work smarter, not harder?That's where multichannel marketing comes in. "When you use them together, you get a sum that's greater than the parts," says Aaron Wesley Means, Founder and CEO of Activate Business Solutions, emphasizing the power of combining channels like email and social media. In this episode of Constant Contact's Be a Marketer podcast, host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, welcomes back Constant Contact Community Coach Aaron. Aaron shares his expert insights on creating cohesive, impactful campaigns that extend your reach and boost your business growth.Tune in to learn how to leverage the unique strengths of each digital platform, discover how Constant Contact's Campaign Builder can streamline your multichannel strategy, and walk away with actionable advice to amplify your marketing impact.Additional Resources:Join The Ready, Set, Send ChallengeReady Set Send Challenge Week 4: Multi-channel Campaign CreationIntegrated Marketing Campaign Mastery: Transform Your MarketingCampaign Builder in Constant ContactQ&A: Achieve Your Goals with Multi-Channel Marketing CampaignsWelcome to the Constant Contact CommunityMeet Today's Guest: Aaron Wesley Means of Activate Business Solutions

Melanie Diehl had always envisioned a career path similar to her father's — dedicating 30 years to a single company and retiring comfortably. But then she got laid off and decided to use her severance to explore different options. That's when she discovered her talent with a sewing machine. Melanie learned by doing, navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship while building a loyal clientele. After 25 years in her interior design business, she worked with her husband on an overhead crane business. Today, Melanie runs a successful marketing firm, where she guides small business owners. “Know your worth and charge it," she advises. “There's someone out there who's willing to pay for the premium services and products that you have to offer."Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, sits down with Melanie to unpack her entrepreneurial journey and discuss actionable list-building strategies. Learn how to leverage Constant Contact tools like landing pages and pop-up forms to grow your audience and increase revenue. Tune in now.Additional Resources:How to Build an Effective Email List: Best Practices and StrategiesEmail Marketing Tips You Need To KnowWhat is a Landing Page?How To Implement an Email Marketing Landing PageMeet Today's Guest: Melanie Diehl of Melanie and Co. Marketing Collective☕ What she does: Melanie is the CEO and President of Melanie and Co. Marketing Collective. She's been a Constant Contact Certified Partner for over 10 years and also serves as a Constant Contact Community Coach, guiding small businesses on their marketing journeys.

After a corporate career in direct marketing, Aaron Wesley Means had no plans to start a business. It wasn't until he began helping his wife launch her dream dog grooming business that he immersed himself in small business marketing. Eager to build a brand and attract customers, he dove headfirst into researching list-building strategies, email campaigns, and the nuances of connecting with a target audience. Along the way, he discovered a gap — a real need for marketing expertise within the small business and nonprofit communities. In 2011, Aaron launched Activate Business Solutions, determined to fill that void. His mission? To empower small businesses and nonprofits with the tools and strategies they need to thrive. In this episode of the Be a Marketer podcast, Aaron, founder and a Constant Contact community coach, and host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, pull back the curtain on email design and reveal why a thoughtful approach is crucial in a mobile-first world. "You can make the greatest email in the history of emails," Aaron explains, "And if they don't open it and know how great it is, it was for nothing."Tune in as Aaron breaks down seven essential design elements that can make or break your email campaigns. Learn how to craft compelling headers, leverage visuals strategically, and optimize your calls to action for maximum impact.Additional Resources:Ready Set Send Challenge Week 2: Designing the Perfect EmailBrandKitEmail Design: The Ultimate GuideThe Ultimate Toolkit for Call To Action ButtonsMeet Today's Guest: Aaron Wesley Means of Activate Business Solutions

Tracey Lee Davis never imagined she'd become a business owner. After years of managing a pet care company, she craved a simpler role where she could follow someone else's lead. But life had other plans.When unemployment benefits ran dry, and job applications went unanswered, Tracey reluctantly stepped into entrepreneurship. Now, as the owner of ZingPop Social Media, she couldn't imagine doing anything else."I really do love that I get to set what happens with my business," Tracey shares on the Be a Marketer podcast. Her journey from reluctant business owner to marketing expert showcases the power of setting clear, personalized goals.In this episode, Tracey and host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, explore the importance of goal-setting in marketing. They discuss how to tailor goals to your specific business needs, the crucial role of measurable objectives, and why timeframes matter. Tune in to learn how you can transform your marketing efforts by setting the right targets for your business. Additional Resources:Welcome to the Constant Contact CommunityJoin The Ready, Set, Send ChallengeWeek 1: Goal SettingSMART GoalsQ&A: Decoding Online Marketing Success: Your Guide to Planning, Reviewing, and ExecutingFoundations for Online Marketing Success WorksheetCreating Goals and Measuring Success WorksheetMeet Today's Guest: Tracey Lee Davis of ZingPop Social Media

Lucy Hall's journey into the digital world began with a chunky Dell computer and an eBay account. At 17, she became one of the first eBay power sellers, selling thousands of "ab belts" and discovering a passion for online marketing.This early experience set the stage for Lucy's future as a digital skills advocate and community builder. Today, she runs SocialDay, the UK's top Social Media Marketing Festival, and Digital Women, an online community with over 40,000 members dedicated to empowering women through digital skills education."If I could do it when I was 17 and my uncle can sell things online at age like 80, everyone in between can do it as well," Lucy shares, highlighting her belief in the power of digital skills for all ages.On this episode of Be a Marketer, Lucy and host Dave Charest dive into the importance of mindset in business, the challenges of growth, and the power of community. They explore Lucy's unique approach to content creation, her success on LinkedIn, and her tips for building engaged online communities.Tune in to hear Lucy's insights on balancing online and offline creativity, the importance of caring for your customers, and how to create content that resonates with your audience.Additional Resources:Guide to all Constant Contact Onboarding WebinarsNew Customer HubMeet Today's Guest: Lucy Hall of SocialDay and Digital Women

Clients are everywhere, but so is the competition. This is the reality for real estate agents in a crowded market.But what if you could become the go-to expert in your community — the agent everyone remembers when it's time to buy or sell their home?For over a decade, Stephanie Alfonso has helped real estate agents transform their marketing strategies. Now, as the Senior Director of Vertical Innovation at Constant Contact, she's empowering agents to navigate a changing market. With the national conversation revolving around buyer's commission and agent value, Stephanie champions digital marketing as the key to staying top-of-mind and building trust with clients. “If you could do one thing better, what would it be?” Stephanie asks, challenging agents to prioritize their marketing efforts for long-term successOn this episode of the Be a Marketer podcast, Stephanie and host Dave Charest explore why a strong online presence is crucial for agents. Discover the power of a consistent email newsletter and learn how agents can use AI tools to streamline their content creation.Tune in to learn actionable strategies for list building, content creation, and leveraging social media and SMS marketing to connect with clients and grow your business.Additional Resources:BAM #18 - Building a Real Estate Business Through Email with Ricky CarruthReal Estate Marketing Advice14 Top Real Estate Email TemplatesMeet Today's Guest: Stephanie Alfonso of Constant Contact

What if you could transform the fear of rejection into a catalyst for growth in your business? Graphic designer Liz Mosley did just that. After realizing that playing it safe was holding her back from exciting opportunities, Liz embarked on a journey to reframe rejection as a stepping stone to success.Liz has been helping small businesses and creatives define their brands and attract ideal customers for over a decade. As host of the “Building Your Brand” podcast, she's no stranger to the power of marketing and connection. “I actually think for some people it's worth waiting a couple of years, letting the chips fall almost, and seeing what is the business that you really want to build and then invest in the branding,” she shares.On this episode of Be a Marketer, Liz and host Dave Charest delve into the strategies that have helped her build a thriving freelance business, including a counterintuitive approach to rejection, the importance of understanding your target audience, and her go-to social media scheduling trick.Tune in to discover how you can build a brand you love and attract dream clients with Liz's practical tips and inspiring story.Additional Resources:Create a social post and schedule it to publish on social mediaAutomatically apply your branding to your emailsMeet Today's Guest: Liz Mosley of Liz Mosley Design☕ What she does: Liz Mosley is a U.K.-based graphic designer specializing in branding and animated GIFs for small businesses. She hosts the “Building Your Brand” podcast, where she shares marketing advice for small business owners looking to DIY their branding. Liz's goal is to help her clients and audience create a brand that makes them feel proud and confident about promoting their businesses. 

Small business owners often juggle countless tasks, leaving marketing on the back burner. But what if there was a way to streamline marketing efforts and boost confidence?Enter Constant Contact's latest innovation: the AI-powered Campaign Builder. This tool promises to revolutionize how small businesses approach marketing, addressing the challenges uncovered in the Spring 2024 Small Business Report. "More than half of small businesses we polled — about 55% to 56% — told us that they have less than an hour a day to spend on marketing," reveals Michael Wood, Manager of North America External Communications at Constant Contact. This startling statistic underscores the need for efficient marketing solutions.The episode dives into the research findings, exploring why small businesses struggle with marketing and how the new Campaign Builder can help. Kate Conway, Constant Contact's Senior Product Marketing Manager, explains how the tool leverages AI and Constant Contact's decades of marketing expertise to create multi-channel campaigns tailored to specific business goals.Tune in to gain insights into the current state of small business marketing and learn how AI-driven tools can save time, boost confidence, and improve overall marketing strategies.Additional Resources:SBN ReportCampaign BuilderBrandKitHave you tried Campaign Builder? Let us know!Meet Today's Guests: Kate Conway and Michael Wood of Constant Contact

Building a successful business takes grit, determination, and a commitment to your vision. For Maria Miranda, founder and creative director of Miranda Creative, that journey began in 1988 with a simple yet powerful belief: work should be about respect, creativity, and client value.In this episode of the Be a Marketer podcast, Maria and host Dave Charest pull back the curtain on 35 years of experience, sharing the lessons learned and strategies honed along the way. Maria discusses how she built a thriving agency by focusing on authentic connections, organic content, and the enduring power of email marketing. "Little effort, little impact, big effort, big impact," she shares, emphasizing the importance of meaningful engagement and a long-term perspective.Tune in to hear how Maria empowers her team, embraces a community-driven approach, and navigates the dynamic world of marketing with intention and purpose.Additional Resources:Help overview: The Email Details page in Constant ContactCreate and manage contact lists in Constant Contact Professional Services from Constant Contact Constant Contact Partner Agency DirectoryMeet Today's Guest: Maria Miranda of Miranda Creative☕ What she does: Maria is the founder and creative director of Miranda Creative, a brand management firm based in Norwich, Connecticut. For over 35 years, she has provided comprehensive marketing services to businesses. Maria was named the 2024 Small Business Person of the Year: Connecticut by the Small Business Administration. She holds a B.F.A. in graphic design/marketing from the University of Connecticut.

Want to grow your community and attract more subscribers on social media or LinkedIn?

Your next great marketing idea could come from an unexpected place — possibly from a totally unrelated industry. That's a powerful lesson Jonny Etherington, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Care Advantage, has learned over the course of his career so far. It's a mindset he's applied in his role at Care Advantage, a trusted provider of in-home healthcare for 35 years. Jonny attributes the company's longevity to its commitment to service and building a strong internal culture."I'm very motivated to work with good people and people that are engaged on a daily basis and challenge you on your ideas," Jonny tells host Dave Charest.On this episode of Be a Marketer, Jonny and Dave explore the unique challenges of marketing in the healthcare industry. Discover how Jonny leverages various marketing channels, including Constant Contact's email and SMS features to reach clients and caregivers.Tune in to learn how Jonny stays ahead of marketing trends, the importance of showcasing real people in marketing efforts, and why you should never underestimate the power of keeping a simple pad of paper and a pencil nearby.Additional Resources:Add the SMS Marketing Add-on to Your Constant Contact Email PlanCreate a Custom Landing Page With Constant ContactConnect your Constant Contact account with VimeoAutomatically Generate a Marketing Campaign Based on Your Goals With Constant Contact's Campaign BuilderMeet Today's Guest: Jonny Etherington of Care Advantage Inc.☕ What he does: Jonny is the VP of Marketing and Communications at Care Advantage, a home healthcare organization based in Richmond, Virginia. Originally from Scotland, Jonny has over 20 years of experience in marketing and brand development. He is passionate about using his skills to make a difference in the lives of others. 

Wondering how to keep your marketing content fresh without constantly exhausting your brain for new ideas?

It doesn't get more authentic than the great outdoors. Matthew Polstein and Tallie Martin of the New England Outdoor Center (NEOC) like to preserve that authenticity in their marketing. Matthew founded NEOC over 40 years ago, offering guests in scenic Maine rafting and snowmobiling, plus lodging and an event center with scenic views of Mount Katahdin. Marketing Manager Tallie says it's not always about making the hard sell in email communications, but connecting with the customer. “I'm seeing a higher click rate, and a higher opening rate for what I write in a newsletter. I'm like, Hey, this is what's up, here's what we're doing, here's what's relevant, here's what happened last weekend, here's what we're looking towards,” she says. “People are opening that rather than buy this, do this, come see that.”On this episode of the Be a Marketer podcast, Tallie, Matthew, host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, Brand Production Coordinator at Constant Contact, talk about seasonality, timing communications to purchases, and using AI in email composition.

Looking for ways to increase personalization and segmentation for your organization? In episode 64, Dave Charest, director of small business success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, the team's brand production coordinator, talk you through it. Kelsi also provides a long-awaited update on her ducks!Tune in to hear more about: How personalization and segmentation are about getting timely and relevant information to the right people. Utilizing the data you do have.Different ways you can utilize your data.

KiDsGyM USA focuses on gymnastics, but kids take away so much more than how to tumble. Even if students don't go on to compete in gymnastics, it teaches them the fundamentals of any sport, and they gain confidence and self-esteem along the way, Since 2004, KiDsGyM USA has been giving youth an inexpensive way to build skills necessary for school and life. And one part of that is taking “can't” out of their vocabulary. That attitude has served Stephanie Campbell, co-founder, CEO and Executive Director of the gym, well in the time she's been with Constant Contact. With Constant Contact's SMS capabilities, she reaches parents quickly in a way that won't get lost in the email shuffle. She's also found the generative AI functions helpful, fixing any verbiage that isn't quite sitting right. To further her communication efficiency, Stephanie uses segmentation and tags to divide her audience between parents and different donor types. On this episode of the Constant Contact podcast, Be a Marketer, Stephanie, host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, Brand Production Coordinator at Constant Contact, tumble through the ways KiDsGyM uses Constant Contact to get donations and inform its community. 

This episode is a little different! Kelsi Carter, the team's brand production coordinator, puts our very own Dave Charest, director of small business success at Constant Contact, in the hot seat for a change! Tune in to hear Dave share his unique journey, from his experiences with theater (and a short-lived but not forgotten time as a bass player) to marketing and his passion for helping small businesses succeed. 

How can you amplify your marketing plan? Start by looking at what's worked in the past.Rich Cruz consults for e-commerce business LuckShop.com, the largest and most comprehensive Mojo store in the Midwest. When he first worked with Luck Shop, he was maximizing their SEO through their website. Then, his focus was good customer data. “It's a people-first approach. Get to know the person that you're going after and create those personas based on that,” Rich says. “What would your ideal customer look like? What's their communication style? Where are they hanging out? What do they like?”Then Rich focused on making sure Luck Shop's email list had integrity, meaning customers had really opted in. From there, it's all a matter of analyzing what works and replicating those results. On this episode of the Constant Contact podcast, Be a Marketer, Rich and hosts Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, Brand Production Coordinator at Constant Contact, share the marketing strategies that have worked well for Luck Shop.

Marketing is the machine that never stops running, even for a seasonal business. Mark Chinsky, co-owner of Enjou Chocolat in Morristown, New Jersey, experiences drastic seasonal fluctuations that revolve around holidays. During the quieter seasons, Mark focuses on making technology work for him. His prior experience in the direct mail industry showed him the value of marketing — and when to do it. “A lot of people cut marketing when things get tight. [But] that's the last thing you cut,” he advises.  “If you cut marketing, then you might as well close your doors. That's where your future revenue is going to come from.” Mark goes on to explain that the slow season is one of the best times to market — when the cash is flowing and you're incredibly busy, you won't have as much time to focus on marketing.On this episode of Constant Contact's Be a Marketer podcast, Mark and host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, talk about how automating tasks lets your marketing tools do the heavy lifting for you. 

Are you part of a nonprofit and want to use SMS but aren't sure how or even if it would be beneficial for your organization? On this episode, Dave Charest, director of small business success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, the team's brand production coordinator, talk you through it.Listen in to hear how to: Maximize Event Attendance: Learn how you can boost event attendance through SMS reminders, like Nicholas at the Parsippany Library.Provide Timely Updates for All Audiences:  Delivering timely and relevant information via SMS to various stakeholders such as volunteers, donors, the community, vendors, etc. is a powerful tool.Engage with SMS: Delve into the different strategies for using SMS marketing, from recruiting volunteers, coordinating volunteer activities, engaging members, and sending renewal reminders to educational outreach. Resources:How to Use SMS for NonprofitsGet Started with SMSAdd the SMS marketing add-on to your Constant Contact email plan

Libraries are often the heartbeat of the communities they serve — and Parsippany Public Library in New Jersey is no exception, offering much more than just reading materials. Head of Information Services Nicholas Jackson has been using Constant Contact for several years, both to distribute the library's newsletter and to text workshop registrants. Before Constant Contact, the library had a problem: People would sign up for workshops and then forget to actually attend. So the library enabled attendee text messages to send reminders the night before and the day of the event. While not everyone checks their email constantly, most people check their texts immediately. Attendance problem solved.Above all else, Nicholas's top marketing tip is to stay consistent. That consistency applies to the look and feel of your graphics — like fonts and color schemes — as well as to your marketing plan and analysis of what's working and what's not. On this episode of Constant Contact's podcast, Be a Marketer, Nicholas and host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, discuss all the ways that Constant Contact has helped spread awareness and drive foot traffic into Parsippany's libraries.  

Do you want to know when someone signs up for your email list? On this episode, Dave Charest, director of small business success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, the team's brand production coordinator, talk you through it.This week on the Be A Marketer podcast, learn how to be notified when someone subscribes to your email list so you can keep track of your list's growth. Also, Kelsi shares some exciting news about how she's going to be a duck mom of three. Listen in to hear how to: Use the Constant Contact mobile app to create emails, social posts, manage your contacts, and track new subscribers.Check your Constant Contact reports to see how well your list is growing and where people are coming from, providing insight as to how you can make improvements moving forward.Set up email notifications for new contacts and unsubscribes to focus on your contact list growth. Resources:Receive email updates when contacts opt-in or unsubscribe in Constant ContactAn overview of Constant Contact's mobile appCreative Ways to Grow Your Email ListAre you a Constant Contact customer with a burning marketing question? Go here for a chance to have your question featured in an upcoming episode. If you love this show, please leave a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/bam and follow the simple instructions

Despite being a newspaper, the Osprey Observer effectively utilizes digital tools like email marketing and social media. The key to running a successful local paper, for Marie, is being deeply involved in and committed to the local community. Her team focuses on covering local good news and events, and the relationships they build with local advertisers and readers."We laser focus on what we do. We provide customer service. We try to provide all the best services for our small businesses, and we just have to stay laser-focused," Marie explains. Being a part of the community and engaging in local events has helped create a strong brand for the Osprey Observer.Listen to Marie share valuable insights on embracing the local community, the power of good news, and leveraging digital tools for better engagement, with host Dave Charest, director of small business success at Constant Contact.

Thinking about importing purchased contacts into your Constant Contact account? In this episode, Dave Charest, director of small business success at Constant Contact, and Kelsi Carter, the team's brand production coordinator, discuss why you should avoid importing purchased contacts into your account and how to grow your email list organically.Listen in to hear how/why: Email marketing is permission-based and importing purchased contacts is not recommended due to regulations, ethics, and effectiveness.Purchased contact lists can damage a business's reputation and sender status, and are against Constant Contact's terms of service.Organic list building is the best approach to email marketing, using sign-up tools and offering incentives to attract subscribers.The success of email marketing depends on the quality of the contact list and the relevance of the content.Constant Contact provides various tools to collect email addresses and grow lists organically.Resources:Why Your Business Can't Afford to Use Purchased Email ListsConstant Contact's email permission policyEmail Sign-Up Tools to Help You Grow Your List and Your BusinessAre you a Constant Contact customer with a burning marketing question? Go here for a chance to have your question featured in an upcoming episode. If you love this show, please leave a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/bam and follow the simple instructions.

Identifying and understanding who your key customers are is a crucial part of marketing for Clif Johnson, especially if you're targeting diverse audiences like professionals and consumers. "You really have to put on kind of two marketing hats. You have to understand the needs of both of those customers and really be able to cater to them in order to effectively market to them,” says Clif.Once you know your audience, you can start providing them with targeted content with the help of segmentation to enhance marketing efforts.And while initial sales are important, repeat sales indicate effective relationship management.On this episode, Clif and host Dave Charest, director of small business success at Constant Contact, dive into the importance of understanding key customers, repeat business, and the role of Constant Contact in their marketing.

Wondering how ‌nonprofit organizations can use email marketing effectively? In this episode, Dave Charest, director of small business success at Constant Contact, welcomes Kelsi Carter, the team's new brand production coordinator. They go on to discuss the importance of storytelling, segmentation, and frequency in email marketing. Listen in to hear how why: Storytelling and inclusivity are crucial in nonprofit marketing and why you must focus on the impact of donors' support.Segmentation and automation are vital for sending relevant content and improving engagement.You should optimize emails for mobile viewing, as many people check emails on their phones.Sending emails at least twice a month with limited content (three sections beyond the intro) for easy scanning, may be best for you.Prioritizing and acting on one thing at a time is key to getting things done.Resources:Top 7 Nonprofit Marketing Integrations to Increase EngagementAchieve your marketing goals with Constant Contact's integrations_zapier Constant Contact IntegrationsAre you a Constant Contact customer with a burning marketing question? Go here for a chance to have your question featured in an upcoming episode. If you love this show, please leave a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/bam and follow the simple instructions.

For Corissa Saint Laurent, building relationships, understanding your audience, and leveraging email marketing are key ingredients for success.And when it comes to growing along with your business, it's all about focusing on activities that align with your skills and passions while delegating tasks that fall outside your expertise. "The goal should be to get to a place where you use your time doing the things you should be doing. Avoid the things that aren't in your skillset or that you're not passionate about," says Corissa. On this episode, Corissa and host Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact, delve into the art of building relationships, understanding your audience, and the significance of marketing in connecting with customers.