In the vast world of email, it is important for both experienced marketers as well as everyday users to know how to deal with spam filters. While the prospect of having emails blocked or ending up on a blocklist is daunting, it is essential to recognize that sending spam is not the only way to trigger these challenges. Independent spam organizations, coupled with some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) maintaining their own internal blocklists, emphasize the need for every email administrator to tread carefully through this delicate terrain. In this article titled ‘How to avoid being blocked by email spam filter?’ we will take a close look at the spam filters and simultaneously know the don’ts of email spam.
Understanding the Dynamics of Blocklists
Blocklists, curated by spam organizations and some ISPs, compile lists of emails and IP addresses that have been observed sending spam. Consequently, email administrators possess the authority to block content listed in these blocklists. Also, administrators can stop emails or IPs that seem like spam by taking action ahead of time. This helps create a strong system to keep users’ email inboxes safe.
In this helpful guide, we will explore some of the important things to do and avoid to keep your emails safe from being blocked or marked as spam, making sure they reach their destination without any issues.
1. Don’t Buy Email Lists
This cardinal rule cannot be stressed enough – never purchase email lists. Apart from ethical considerations, the people on these lists are likely to perceive your unsolicited emails as spam, increasing the chances of your emails being marked as such.
2. Use Double Opt-In
Implementing a double opt-in mechanism to confirm email list subscribers is a best practice. This makes sure that people who sign up use real email addresses, reducing the chance of getting caught in spam traps.
3. Avoid Repetitive Content
Sending the same or similar content repeatedly is a surefire way to attract the attention of spam filters. Every email you send should contain unique content to keep your emails off blocklists and maintain subscriber engagement.
4. Clarify Your Message
Avoid vague content that may confuse or mislead recipients. Include a clearly written subject line and a distinct call to action to ensure your message is crystal clear.
5. Refrain from Sending Attachments
Sending attachments may not only get your email blocked but could also impact deliverability. The remedy here is simple: refrain from sending attachments altogether.
6. Include Unsubscribe Information
In every email, include information on how subscribers can easily unsubscribe. Doing this not only makes people trust you more but is also a rule in many places.
7. Manage Sending Frequency
Sending emails regularly is crucial, but striking a balance is equally important. Avoid overwhelming your readers and consider sending emails at least once every six months to keep your email list fresh.
8. Send from a Legitimate Address
Sending emails from legitimate addresses that are regularly checked by real individuals is crucial. Random combinations of letters and numbers can trigger spam filters and result in your email being blocked.
9. Encourage Adding to Contacts
Boost your email’s credibility by encouraging subscribers to add your email address to their contact lists. Doing this easy thing can really improve the likelihood of your emails ending up in the inbox.
10. Practice List Hygiene
Regularly clean your email subscriber list to avoid repeatedly sending emails to bad or non-existent email addresses. Doing this ahead of time helps keep your sender reputation in good shape.
11. Avoid Spam-Associated Words
Steer clear of using punctuation or words commonly associated with spam. Words like “free,” “win,” and “opportunity” may trigger spam filters and lead to blocklisting.
12. Do Not BCC Your List
Using blind carbon copy (BCC) when sending emails to your list may raise suspicions. To keep things clear and make your subscribers trust you, it is better not to do this.
13. Balance Images and Text
Strive for a healthy balance between images and text in your emails. Having too many pictures can make spam filters act up, making it harder for your emails to get through.
14. Avoid All Caps
Refrain from using all capital letters in your subject line or any other part of your email. Instead, use bold, italics and underline for emphasis.
15. Protect Your Server from Malware
A compromised email server can be utilized as part of a botnet to send spam. Regularly check and protect your email server from malware to maintain your sender reputation.
Verdict
Sending emails can be tricky, especially to avoid spam filters. Whether you are a pro marketer or just sending emails, it is crucial to understand that there are different ways emails can be flagged. Blocklists, created by groups that track spam, list emails and IP addresses known for sending spam. Email admins can block content listed in these blocklists and it is smart to take actions to avoid being labeled as spam.
To keep your emails safe, there are some things you should and should not do. Never buy email lists, use a double opt-in system to confirm subscribers and avoid sending the same content too often. Be clear in your messages, don’t send attachments and include an easy way for people to unsubscribe. Make sure your email server is safe so it is not used for spam. Doing these easy things can make sure your emails go to people’s inboxes and keep you looking good. So, the above mentioned don’ts of email spam is essential to follow.
