We’ve all hear about, read about or even been subjected to some of the amazing ‘free’ offers on the web. You know the kind where they offer an all expense paid trip to the Caribbean – all you have to do is click the link. You can get caught in an endless maze of offers and promises. In the end you click away from the site because you realize you rarely get anything for free and this tactic requires recruiting and an ultimate purchase from someone – and then the endless stream of emails begin to arrive.

This tactic has had an amazing impact on list building. Netrepreneurs have found thousands of unsuspecting subscribers through the use of this tactic.

While we may not like the offer of a free lunch that really carries a significant price tag, there is a way for the average online business to use free gifts to build their lists.

For instance, if you have an online potpourri shop you could provide a form your customers can fill out to receive a free sample of one of your potpourri scents. In this scenario they provide their name as well as a physical and email address.

If you make sure the ‘FREE’ section indicates there is no cost or obligation you will likely receive several requests for whatever free product sample you are offering and you have added names to your list in a way that may be more cost effective than other means.

This same concept is being used effectively when customers wish to access exclusive information. If you can provide a compelling body of information in the form of a report of ebook you might make it available to site membership. The proviso would be that the membership is free. Many will sign up for the information and assist you in your list building objectives.

The same concept can be applied to downloads of specific site only information, screensavers, video and audio. Each of these signups can further your ability to grow your list for additional marketing strategies.

In spite of the fact that consumers have been burned by ‘free’ gifts there are still many who are willing to see if there really are free gifts to be had. When you can prove that there really is value in exchange for their contact information they may find a level of trust that has them coming back for more.

The client always wants to know his or her needs are being taken seriously, be sure to treat those customers with the respect they deserve. The results may amaze and astound.