Is Your Email Marketing Stuck in 2023? Upgrade Now with Google & Yahoo's New Rules of Deliverability

(No Tech Jargon Allowed!)

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Imagine sending a birthday card to your best friend, but it never reaches them! Frustrating, right? That's what many businesses face with email marketing. Important messages get lost in the spam folder, leaving recipients wondering if you even sent them.

Well, good news! Google and Yahoo just announced some updates aimed at fixing this problem. But before you go panicking, don't worry, there's no need to be a tech whiz to understand it.

Here's the lowdown:

What's Changing?

Think of Gmail and Yahoo as the bouncers of your email party. They want to make sure only invited guests (relevant and wanted emails) get in, while keeping out party crashers (spam). So, they're setting some new rules:

  • Double Checking IDs: They want to confirm the sender is really who they say they are, like checking ID at the door. This is done through email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) – think of it as a fancy VIP pass.
  • One-Click Unsubscribe: Tired of unwanted emails? Now, unsubscribing will be easier than ever, like having a clear exit at the party.
  • Keeping it Clean: Sending too many spammy emails? You might get flagged, just like someone showing up uninvited.
  • Engagement Matters: Emails people actually open and read will have a better chance of getting delivered, like being popular at the party!

Why the Change?

They're doing this for two reasons:

  • For You: They want your inbox to be a cool, clutter-free space, not a spam overload zone.
  • For Businesses: They want emails to be useful and enjoyable, not annoying interruptions. Happy recipients are more likely to buy stuff, right?

What if I Don't Change?

If you don't follow the new rules, your emails might end up in the spam folder, like getting denied entry at the party.  This means fewer people see your message, which can hurt your business.  

The Upside of Change:

By following these updates, you'll:

  • Get your emails delivered: Reach more people and build stronger relationships.
  • Boost your reputation: Look professional and trustworthy, like a responsible party host.
  • Increase engagement: People will actually open and read your emails, like having interesting conversations at the party.

Don't Panic!

These changes might seem scary, but remember, they're good for everyone. There are plenty of resources available to help you adjust your email marketing game. Talk to your email service provider or do some research online. You've got this!

Remember: By making these changes, you're not just sending emails, you're creating a better experience for everyone involved. Now go forth and party responsibly in the wonderful world of email marketing!


A Last Note for People Who Don't Use Gmail or Yahoo Email

Keep this in mind. I was asked the question, "Do these new rules on deliverability affect me if I don't use Gmail or Yahoo email?" The answer is YES. 

The impact of the new Google and Yahoo email deliverability rules depends on who you're sending emails to. While the rules specifically target senders with over 5,000 daily emails to Gmail and Yahoo addresses, there are indirect effects to consider:

Direct Impact:

  • If you only send emails to non-Gmail and Yahoo addresses, you won't directly be affected by these specific rules.

Indirect Impact:

  • However, other email providers often follow similar trends and best practices. Implementing practices aligned with Google and Yahoo's updates can improve your overall email deliverability across all providers, including those you use.
  • Additionally, many email marketing platforms and services cater to Gmail and Yahoo compliance, which can benefit all senders by ensuring they use industry-standard practices.

Therefore, even if you don't solely use Gmail or Yahoo, it's still beneficial to be aware of and consider implementing the guidelines of these updates. Doing so can improve your overall email deliverability and sender reputation, leading to higher open rates and better engagement with your recipients.

Key points to remember:

  • The updates focus on bulk senders, but awareness is beneficial for all.
  • Implementing the suggested practices can improve overall email deliverability.
  • Many email marketing tools and services accommodate these updates.

I hope this clarifies the impact on you even if you don't use Gmail or Yahoo!