Mailing Lists? - Virtual Assistant Forums

A2Zva · #1 (**permalink**) 02-03-2009

OK.

All of this Postcard and mailer talk in the other thread has me really wondering....

Where does everyone get the mailing lists / addresses to reach their target clients?

I am a newbie so was wondering what everyone else uses...

Thanks!

Office Goddess · #2 (**permalink**) 02-03-2009

My first "list" came from a local business newspaper that posted all the new business filings in the county for the month of July, 2007. It was 172 names and I gained 1 new client out of that list (had to format it myself - not a big deal in word, then create a mail merge).

I compiled my next "list" from checking the legal classifieds in our local paper daily and creating my own list of new business listings for a 1-month period - no new clients from that list but it keeps growing.

I got a list from www.infousa.com - I haven't tested it out, yet but they offered 100 leads free as a "try us out" deal so I'll give their list a shot and let everyone know how it went. I received a list of all 1-office attorneys in our county (only 64).

I will also be placing a monthly ad in our local county attorney bar association newsletter - it's only $25/month for a small ad so I'll try it for 6 months.

jahmth · #3 (**permalink**) 02-04-2009

I've created my list from the Chamber of Commerce directory for each chamber we are a member of. Everything is entered into Microsoft Access, so I can mail merge with whatever I'm sending out. Total, I have over 700 names in it so far, and continue to add to it.

A2Zva · #4 (**permalink**) 02-04-2009

Awesome ideas. Thanks everyone! I think I am going to have to look into the COC idea right away, seems like an awesome resource all around.

PamH53 · #5 (**permalink**) 02-04-2009

As a Chamber member I have access to their member directory. It is a list of names and addresses of over 600 small businesses within 10 miles of my house (I live on a small island on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida). I also keep adding names of new businesses as I drive around and see new signs. I know this is the hard way, but it gets me more names.

B-organized · #6 (**permalink**) 02-04-2009

You also might want to try your local library. If they are online - there should be some resources there. When I lived in NY - I was able to compile quite a large mailing list - free!

MrsAn · #7 (**permalink**) 02-04-2009

I have used infousa on several occasions when I worked at the bank. They have a extensive search area that will let you map out almost exactly what you are looking for. I do remember it being pretty pricey for a one time search, but if you think you can use it a lot then I believe that they have year long commitments. Still really costly though.

ffsother · #8 (**permalink**) 02-15-2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by Office Goddess

My first "list" came from a local business newspaper that posted all the new business filings in the county for the month of July, 2007. It was 172 names and I gained 1 new client out of that list (had to format it myself - not a big deal in word, then create a mail merge).

I compiled my next "list" from checking the legal classifieds in our local paper daily and creating my own list of new business listings for a 1-month period - no new clients from that list but it keeps growing.

I love this idea! I may have to check our paper and see if I can find the area where they have this listed. Thanks!