Now that you know the theory of why and how you need to use an autoresponder, it is time to look for the solution that?s right for you. The autoresponder that you need to use must be reliable. It has to work and it has to work on time. It has to have the functionality that you are going to need. While there are dozens out there to choose from, there are only a few that I am comfortable to recommend.
I will not be recommending any company that advertises your account can't be shut down because of spam complaints. First, these servers are usually hosted in countries that don't have the laws or resources to regulate them, so you never know if you are getting what you pay for. Secondly, a lot of these companies have their IP addresses blocked because they also host spam producers. Your emails end up getting blocked and what good is sending them out if they are blocked. Third, do you really want your business reputation tied to this type of operation? I hope not.
Types of Autoresponder Services
There are basically two types of autoresponders you can use. The first type is a service that you subscribe to and is hosted on someone else's server. There are both free and paid versions available on the market. Which you use depends on your budget and the degree of professionalism that you wish to promote.
The second type is where you purchase the software and host it yourself on your own server. You can install it on your server (your hosting company) or most companies that sell this type of software offer installation services for an additional fee if you are uncomfortable doing it yourself. If you do install the software on your own domain, never, ever, upload lists into it.
Using An Autoresponder Service
Free autoresponder services are free for a reason. They are supported by someone else's advertising. If you are starting on a shoestring budget, do not be afraid of using one of these. It is more important that you are using an autoresponder -- even with a few ads -- than not using one at all. As soon as your business can afford it, upgrade to a paid programs. After all, you want to be advertising your own products rather than someone else's.
If you don't want to fool with free systems, but get your business off to a really professional start, then I have two companies that I have no reservations recommending. The first is called AWeber and they have been around the longest of the autoresponders on the Internet today. The most important thing in an autoresponder is reliability and they will give you that. They also have great support, including phone and chat.
One of the most popular services on the market is GetResponse. Not only do they have the reliability you need, but they use proactive Anti-spam measures, and alternative channels (i.e. RSS) to ensure your messages get through successfully. They also offer an associated leads program that port directly into your autoresponder.
(Both of these services now advertise themselves as email marketing services which makes creating professional looking emails or newsletter very easy to send. They have free trials if you want to kick the tires.)