Staying consistent with email marketing is no small feat. Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to get derailed by everyday challenges—a packed schedule, creative blocks, or simply not knowing where to start.
You’re not alone if you’ve ever struggled to keep up with your email marketing goals. The good news? These challenges are common, and they’re also fixable. Here’s how to overcome some of the most frequent hurdles to staying accountable and consistent with email marketing.
Challenge 1: “I Don’t Have Enough Time”
Why It Happens:
Time management is one of the biggest struggles for small business owners. With so many competing priorities, email marketing often falls to the bottom of the to-do list.
How to Fix It:
- Batch Your Work: Dedicate one block of time each month to create and schedule all your emails in advance. This reduces the pressure of weekly deadlines.
- Use Automation: Platforms like Constant Contact let you schedule emails ahead of time, so you can set it and forget it.
- Set Realistic Goals: Instead of committing to weekly emails, aim for biweekly or even monthly newsletters to start.
Challenge 2: “I Don’t Know What to Write About”
Why It Happens:
Writer’s block is real, and it can be paralyzing. Without a clear idea of what to say, it’s tempting to skip sending emails altogether.
How to Fix It:
- Create a Content Calendar: Plan your topics based on your audience’s needs and your business goals. This eliminates last-minute brainstorming.
- Repurpose Content: Turn blog posts, social media updates, or FAQs into email content. You likely already have great material—you just need to repackage it.
- Listen to Your Audience: Pay attention to the questions your clients or customers often ask, and use those as inspiration for your emails.
Challenge 3: “I Procrastinate and Keep Pushing It Off”
Why It Happens:
When email marketing feels overwhelming or low on your priority list, procrastination can sneak in.
How to Fix It:
- Break It Down: Instead of thinking of email marketing as one big task, break it into smaller, manageable steps (e.g., brainstorming topics, drafting, editing).
- Set Deadlines: Assign specific dates to each step and stick to them. Deadlines add a sense of urgency and keep you moving forward.
- Find Accountability: Work with a partner, team member, or group to check in on your progress. Knowing someone is expecting results can be a powerful motivator.
Challenge 4: “I Don’t See Immediate Results”
Why It Happens:
Email marketing is a long game. When you don’t see instant engagement or sales, it’s easy to feel like your efforts aren’t paying off.
How to Fix It:
- Track the Right Metrics: Focus on consistent growth in open rates, click-throughs, and engagement over time, rather than expecting immediate ROI.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Even a small increase in open rates or a positive reply from a subscriber is worth celebrating.
- Stay Consistent: Building trust with your audience takes time, but consistency is what earns it.
Challenge 5: “I Don’t Have a System”
Why It Happens:
Email marketing can feel chaotic and disorganized without a clear workflow, making it harder to stay on track.
How to Fix It:
- Use Tools to Stay Organized: A content calendar, task management app, or email platform can simplify your process.
- Create Templates: Save time by using pre-designed templates for your emails. Most platforms offer customizable options.
- Develop a Routine: Dedicate a specific day or time each week to work on email marketing. A consistent routine builds momentum and turns it into a habit.
Final Thoughts
Consistency in email marketing isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up regularly and learning from the process. By addressing these common challenges with practical solutions, you can build a system that works for you and your business.
What’s one challenge in staying accountable with email marketing, and how have you tackled it? Share your experience—your solution might help someone else!