Email has become the communication tool of choice for many business people. Even as text messaging and instant messaging find their place in the corporate world, email reigns supreme.

Every time you send an email message, it is an opportunity to communicate with your prospect or customer about the value of joining your email marketing list.

Web presence for business has extended well beyond the company Website. Social media and blogs have vastly increased the potential reach of any online marketing effort.

What can you do to increase the number of email addresses you collect via these other online avenues?

Your Website may be the most convenient way for users to subscribe to your email newsletter. Are you giving them that opportunity?

They key to online sign-ups is to keep them simple. Prospects and customers may be interested in what you have to say--but not if it requires them to jump through too many hoops.

A tried-and-true tactic for acquiring new customers is business networking. Kansas City has all sorts of great networking opportunities, from the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, to the Central Exchange, to Principal Connections (sponsored by PerAspera Consulting, LLC.)

These events can help you build your email marketing list, just as well as they can help you add one new client at a time.

Building a valuable email list takes focused effort. Every interaction with your customers and prospects is a chance to add to your list.

The good news is, if you have employees, you don't have to do it alone. It can be a team effort.