WC Fields once said ‘start each day with a smile, and get it over with’.

Welcome emails have a huge advantage in that they are the most opened of all emails you’ll ever send, and therefore give you a second to none chance to make a real impact in terms of:

* Walking the talk
* Delivering what you said you would
* Cementing the newly-forged and tentative relationship you have with your recipients by driving them to engage with offers or ‘gifts’ from you, right up front
* Etc.

If you want a double opt it then that’s okay too, but less relevant usually unless you have a real reason to use that, you will lower your uptake by asking them to confirm – better to warmly welcome and king hit with something they weren’t expecting like an offer or giveaway.

Did you know that SmartMail can setup a fully automated email for you which will be instantly sent to welcome all new subscribers who sign up for your newsletters via your website form? Nifty huh! Automated emails can be fully branded and personalised so it’s a great way to introduce yourself to new readers and it’s the perfect opportunity to encourage them to invite their friends to join too.

If you are looking to learn more, then I’d suggest you read the article at Media Post: “A welcome email should come immediately after sign-up. It’s important to capitalize on a user’s attention and no better time to do that than the present. The welcome email should thank users for opting in, explain what they can expect from your email program and get them excited to receive the next one. Some advertisers find that asking additional profile questions during this time too is helpful. This is something you should test to determine its viability in your program.”