Dear Colette,
This past month I participated in a well-attended, two-day seminar filled with like-minded entrepreneurs. Obviously, many of us exchanged cards. In some circumstances, it was simply to be polite and other times to support each other’s growth based on a deeper conversation. Here’s the challenge. My inbox has been deluged with email newsletters, offers, etc. from quite a few of these individuals. Obviously, I can choose to “unsubscribe,” but with many email marketing services, the owner receives an email notification listing unsubscribes. For those I would possibly want a relationship with moving forward, what would you suggest I do? Sure, I could route them to a junk folder, but not wanting more to show up on my smart phone.
Now what?
-Get Out of My Inbox
Dear Get Out,
In my opinion, anyone who puts you on their marketing list without your permission has overstepped their boundaries. I would simply unsubscribe. For those you want to continue a relationship with, speak your truth. “Meeting you at the (conference) was a highlight. As I’m on a mission to reduce my inbox, I’ve chosen to unsubscribe from your promotional information, yet want to continue to stay in touch with you personally.”
I’ve recently been in a similar situation. Someone I met while speaking at a conference, and who I thoroughly enjoyed talking with, asked for my card to stay in touch. They then said, “I’m going to put you on my newsletter list.” In the moment and with a big smile, I responded, “If you do, I’m going to choose to unsubscribe, which is no reflection of the fun I’ve had in meeting you. I simply keep that email address specific to business correspondence. If you need to personally reach out, please do.”
