Growing An Email List That Actually Grows Your Business
A guide for small and mid-sized business owners in the Carolinas…any everywhere!
Years ago, I worked with a small but growing company based just outside of Charlotte. The owner, Mark, was incredibly skilled—his team was top-notch, his service was reliable, and his customers were loyal. But most of his business came from word of mouth, and during slower seasons, leads would dry up. He had a basic website and a Facebook page, but no real digital marketing strategy to stay connected with his clients and stop “top of mind” after the job was done.
When we talked about building an email list, he admitted he wasn’t sure it made sense for his type of business. “Why would someone want to hear from their HVAC guy until something breaks?” he asked.
Fast forward six months, and Mark had a growing list of past customers and interested leads. We created a few simple email sequences—reminders for seasonal maintenance, tips for saving on energy bills, special offers during slower months. Not only did those emails drive repeat business, they also built trust. Customers started forwarding his tips to friends and family, which brought in new leads without spending a dime on ads.
It wasn’t complicated. It was just consistent, thoughtful communication—and it worked.
If you’re a small or mid-sized business owner in the Carolinas, whether you’re in HVAC, home services, retail, or anything in between, building an email list is one of the smartest investments you can make in your business.
Here’s why it matters, and how to get started.
Why Your Email List Is a Game-Changer
It belongs to you
Unlike social media, where algorithms decide who sees your content, your email list is something you own and control. That means you can reach your audience anytime—no permission needed.It builds trust
Consistent, helpful emails show your customers that you care about more than just the sale. You become a trusted resource, not just another service provider.It leads to real business
Email marketing continues to have one of the highest returns on investment in the digital world. A few well-timed messages can drive repeat business, referrals, and long-term customer relationships.It keeps your business top of mind
Even when someone doesn’t need your product or service today, staying in their inbox means you’ll be the first one they think of when they do.It Makes your business more valuable
Small business owners often do not even know that part of the financial valuation process of a business when an owner goes to sell it, is the business contacts that business has garnered throughout the years. The larger your email list, the more valuable your company is perceived by to investors.
Simple Ways to Start (or Grow) Your Email List
If the idea of email marketing feels overwhelming, take a deep breath—it doesn’t have to be. Start small. Here are a few practical tips that work, no matter what type of business you run.
Offer something worth signing up for
Give people a reason to join your list. For service-based businesses, this might be a seasonal checklist, a maintenance reminder guide, or a limited-time offer.Make it easy to sign up
Include sign-up forms on your website—especially the homepage, contact page, and blog. You can also use a subtle pop-up or slide-in that invites people to subscribe without being pushy.Talk about your list on social media
Let your followers know what they’ll get by joining your list. Exclusive tips, early access to offers, or helpful content can be a strong draw.Collect emails in person
If your business involves site visits, trade shows, or customer interactions, ask if they'd like to receive helpful seasonal reminders or exclusive service offers via email.Send valuable content regularly
Whether it’s once a month or once a quarter, make a habit of reaching out. Share tips, stories, seasonal advice, or special offers—whatever helps your customers and keeps your brand top of mind.
What Platforms Should You Use?
The best platform is the one that works for your needs and feels manageable. A few we recommend for small and mid-sized businesses:
Flodesk – Beautiful, simple to use, and great for brands that want eye-catching emails without a steep learning curve
Mailchimp – A reliable all-in-one option with automation, analytics, and lots of integrations
ConvertKit – Especially good for service-based businesses and content creators
Klaviyo – Powerful for eCommerce or businesses that want detailed customer data and targeting
Let’s Build Something That Lasts
At Rachel Rowell Design Co., we help small and mid-sized business owners across North and South Carolina do more than just show up online—we help you build something that lasts. That includes setting up a strong email foundation to connect with your audience in a meaningful, consistent way.
We can help you:
Website Maintenance that ensures your website stays fresh and always functioning at peak capacity
Build Targeted, High Performing Paid Ad Campaigns for Google & Facebook
Establish or Refine Your Business’ Google Listing Including Help Becoming Google Verified
If you're ready to grow your reach, and connect with the customers who already believe in what you do—I’d love to work with you.
Click here to get started with us
You don’t need a massive list to see big results. You just need the right people—and the right message.
You’ve got this. And I’m here to help.
