Email Applied: The BIG SALE!

Office Depot did it right in a recent email touting $10 off a $50 purchase:

• The coupon had a time limit (December 10, 2009).
• The copy under the "$10 off $50" main headline allowed redemption in all channels: "Valid in-store, online and by phone."
• Two call-to-action buttons allowed recipients to either shop online or print the coupon.

2. Involve Readers to Build Community
This is a great way to engage and involve your audience. It can be as simple as a one-question poll in an email, a request to have readers rate and review purchases, an ask-the-expert section, a reader tips column, or a survey. It's human nature to want to be asked for an opinion and to want to know what others think.