A nice feature to include in your welcome email is a "Forward to a Friend" link, especially when combined with a bonus offer. Neiman Marcus enters you into a sweepstakes for a $10,000 shopping spree if you subscribe to its email list and then allows you to forward this opportunity to friends. If they register as well, you are given an additional entry into the sweepstakes, improving your chances of winning. This is a quick and easy way to get your subscribers to do some of the work for you and get your name and brand out there. Be sure to test different viral marketing offers to see what consumers respond to best.

Neiman Marcus viral marketing email

Welcome emails have become an integral step in improving your relationship marketing efforts. Regardless of your line of business, take the time to incorporate welcome emails into your email program. They will surely help you build long-lasting relationships with loyal customers.